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Technical 2026-04-01 8 min read

Single-phase or three-phase for solar in Switzerland: decide in 6 steps

Editorial responsibility: Franck Tournier · Report a fix

TL;DR

The choice between single-phase and three-phase depends on the power of the project, the heavy uses of the building, the constraints of the DSO and the future development of the installation.

The right electrical choice is decided before construction site surprises

This decision influences the inverter, the load distribution, the charging station, the heat pump and sometimes the network connection itself.

The method in 6 steps

01

Check existing power supply

Meter, subscription power, panel and equipment already present provide the starting framework.

02

Look at the target power for photovoltaics

Some powers remain simple in single-phase, others become more coherent in three-phase.

03

List the major current and future uses

11 kW terminal, heat pump or technical workshops clearly change the logic of choice.

04

Integrate the constraints of the local DSO

The network manager can influence metering, injection and commissioning.

05

Compare the cost of adaptation with the real interest

Switching to three-phase has a cost. It must be compared to the concrete gain for the project.

06

Decide according to the evolution of the building

If the building is going to become more electrified, three-phase often becomes more relevant in the medium term.

Frequently asked questions

Does a house with solar necessarily have to go three-phase?+

No. Many residential projects remain consistent in single phase. Three-phase becomes especially relevant depending on power, heavy usage and network constraints.

Does three-phase automatically improve self-consumption?+

Not automatically. It can better support certain uses and certain powers, but it does not replace good sizing or good piloting.

Sources & method

Swissolar; electrical installation practices in Switzerland; photovoltaic residential sizing.

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