The EU Rooftop Solar Standard, a key component of the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive, is projected to drive the installation of 150 to 200 GW of additional rooftop solar capacity in the EU between 2026 and 2030. This standard will particularly benefit public buildings like schools and hospitals, reducing energy expenses and reliance on fossil fuels.
Jan Osenberg, Senior Policy Advisor at SolarPower Europe, emphasizes the transformative impact of this law, likening it to the essential integration of smoke detectors. The mandate ensures that all new buildings are solar-ready, making solar adoption more straightforward and economically appealing.
Furthermore, the EU Solar Rooftop Standard will apply to various building types, unlocking the potential of large rooftops such as those on offices, commercial buildings, and car parks. Osenberg stresses the importance of rooftop PV in enabling smart electrification and reducing the costs of sustainable homes.
Despite the mandatory solar installations, the growth of rooftop solar on homes is expected to increase as citizens seek to mitigate fossil fuel price volatility. With total rooftop solar capacity in Europe projected to reach 355 GW by the end of 2027, the EU Rooftop Solar Standard represents a significant step towards a more sustainable energy future.
