Solar Installation & Asset Management

Solar panels convert sunlight into electricity using photovoltaic (PV) cells. The electricity generated can be used directly in your home, stored in a battery, or exported to the grid.

Solar self-consumption means generating electricity at your home or business and using it locally instead of buying all your electricity from the grid. This reduces energy bills and dependence on energy suppliers.

Portugal receives over 300 days of sunshine per year in many regions, making solar power a highly effective way to generate clean energy and reduce electricity costs.

Most residential solar systems can be installed in one to two days, depending on roof size, system size, and access conditions.  For commercial systems, the process is longer.

The process usually includes:

• Energy analysis and business case
• System design and quotation
• Site visit
• Installation of panels, inverter, batteries
• Registration of the system with the Portuguese energy authorities
• Invoicing

It is recommended but not always necessary. 

In most cases no formal planning permission is required for rooftop solar installations on private homes if they do not significantly alter the building’s structure or height.

Exceptions may apply for:

• Historic buildings
• Protected heritage zones
• Certain apartment buildings

For commecial projects, a project approval and commissioning process exists that Sol Viva manages on behalf of the client.

Yes. Solar systems must be registered with the Portuguese energy authority (DGEG) under the self-consumption system (UPAC) if they exceed certain capacity thresholds.  Sol Viva manages this registration process for you.  We can also register systems that have not been  previously registered.

Yes. In Portugal solar panels must be installed by a certified installer to comply with national safety and energy regulations.

Costs vary depending on system size and equipment. Typical residential systems range from €4,000 to €12,000, depending on capacity and battery storage.  For larger properties with large battery back up systems, prices can be over €20,000.

Portugal periodically offers local and national level financial support programmes for energy efficiency improvements such as solar panels through initiatives like the Programa de Apoio a Edifícios Mais Sustentáveis. 

Residential solar installations have previously benefited from a reduced VAT rate of 6%.  However, effective June 30th, 2025 all solar energy systems are now subject to the standard VAT rate of 23%

Savings depend on your energy consumption and system size, but many households reduce electricity bills by 50–80%.

Typical payback periods in Portugal range between 5 to 8 years, depending on energy prices and system design.

Yes. Surplus energy produced by your system can be exported to the grid depending on your system registration and electricity supplier.  It should however be noted that feed in tarrifs are very low in Portugal (±0.05c/kWh).  As such, it is important to maxmimise self consumption of any solar energy and minimise export to the grid. At Sol Viva, we focus heavily on ensuring your solar plant is designed to ensure this.

System size depends on:

• Household electricity consumption
• Roof size and orientation
• Budget and desired energy independence

Most standard home solar systems are connected to the electricity grid. When there is a power outage, the solar system will usually shut down automatically, even if the sun is shining and the panels are producing electricity.

This safety feature protects utility workers who may be repairing power lines. If your system continued sending electricity to the grid during an outage, it could create a dangerous situation.

Adding a solar battery allows your system to store excess electricity generated during the day. If the grid goes down, the battery can supply power to your home.

With a battery system:

• Your home can continue running essential appliances during an outage.
• Solar panels can keep charging the battery during the day.
• You become less dependent on the grid.

Depending on the battery size, it can power key items such as:

• Lights
• Refrigerators
• Wi-Fi and electronics
• Security systems
• Some kitchen appliances

Systems can also be configured with a backup circuit, ensuring your home stays powered during an outage.

In many cases solar systems can be expanded, but the inverter capacity and roof space must allow for additional panels.

Most solar panels have a lifespan of 25–30 years.

Solar systems require minimal maintenance. Regular (quarterly or at a miminum annually) cleaning and system monitoring ensure optimal performance.

If the system is not being actively monitored, this will impact the output  solar system.  With monitoring, the panel failure will generate an alert and a technician can be dispatched to resolve.

Yes, but it depends on building ownership rules and access to roof space. Some systems can also be installed on balconies or shared roofs if permitted.

Energy-efficient homes with lower operating costs often have higher market appeal and may sell faster than homes with higher energy costs.