Vonovia Invests €1.3 Million in Solar Power System for Tenant Use

More than 800 apartments can now be powered by solar energy from a newly installed 777-kilowatt rooftop system. This installation is part of a larger plan by the housing company to deploy 20 megawatts of photovoltaic systems within the year.

In Berlin's Marzahn district, Vonovia has recently completed the installation of a 777kW photovoltaic roof system. The project, which involved an investment of 1.3 million euros, includes 2,100 solar modules installed on rooftops around Blumberger Damm. Julia Ward, Vonovia’s Photovoltaics Team Leader in Berlin, noted that the company has achieved a total solar output of around eight megawatts across Berlin in 2023, with plans to increase this expansion rate by 2.5 times in 2024.

The solar energy generated by the Marzahn system will supply power to over 800 apartments in the area. "The electricity produced and consumed locally is exempt from grid fees, allowing us to offer it at a price at least ten percent lower than the local basic supply tariff," explains Julia Ward. This pricing strategy aligns with the requirements of the Renewable Energy Sources Act (EEG), ensuring Vonovia qualifies for funding under the tenant electricity project. Tenants have the option to choose this electricity tariff but are not obligated to do so.