Solar panels can be installed on the roof of any home

If you’re looking to install solar panels, but you’re not sure if your home is suitable, you can rest easy. Solar panels can be installed on just about any type of property. However, the location and orientation of your home play an important role, 

so be sure to check the Solar Map (Zonnekaart) before installing. This map scores your roof based on how suitable it is for solar panels. Please note that the map does not take facades into account. 

Solar panels are still an option, but you should discuss the installation with the Owners' Association (OA) first. If the OA doesn’t agree, you can install solar panels on your facade. The only downside is that you usually need a permit to do so.

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If you’re renting a flat, ask the landlord if installing solar panels is an option. You can buy the panels yourself, in which case you would own them and take them with you when you move. Alternatively, the landlord can install the panels and remain the owner. In most cases, the tenant pays a fixed amount to use the solar panels. Installing solar panels should always be discussed with the Owners' Association.

If so, you’ll need to check carefully whether or not your roof is suitable. Sometimes the roof is too shaded or there’s not enough space to place the panels. If your roof isn’t suitable, you might be able to install solar panels on the roof of an annex or your garden shed. Another option is to install them at ground level in your garden. Make sure to always check your local regulations – the rules are not the same everywhere.

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If you can only put solar panels on part of your roof, you should ideally install high-efficiency ones so that you make the most of the limited space. 

Of course, you should only install solar panels on the most suitable parts of the roof. 

• On sloping roofs, this may only be on one side of the house 
• On flat roofs, you can install the panels at a 45° angle

Be sure to account for surrounding buildings and trees and make sure there aren’t any shadows cast across your panels throughout the day.

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If you have a charging station or heat pump at home, you should consider getting a home battery to optimise your energy generation and consumption. The more energy you use yourself, the more money you save and the shorter the payback period of your solar panels!

Renewable energy is a major trend in the construction industry. For example, some large buildings already feature roof tiles and awnings with integrated solar cells. In addition, researchers have managed to develop a solar cell foil which will one day be easily fitted to vehicles and facades. This is only the beginning! 

Housing, work, life: they all bring challenges. At KBC, we like to keep you up to date with the latest developments in housing, energy, sustainability and mobility. Together we believe in your home of tomorrow.