Regulation & Macro October 2026 5 min read

Solar requirements in Switzerland: new buildings, roofing and cantonal rules

Editorial responsibility: Franck Tournier · Report a fix

TL;DR

The federal framework covers new buildings with a relevant building area exceeding 300 m². For smaller buildings and renovations, check current cantonal rules, exceptions and procedures before signing.

New buildings: distinguish federal and cantonal rules

Article 45a of the Energy Act requires a solar installation on the roof or facade of new buildings with a relevant building area exceeding 300 m². This area is not simply the living area. Cantons regulate exceptions and may set requirements for smaller buildings. Some already apply cantonal rules on electricity generation at the building: ask which legal basis applies to your project.

Renovations: check the rules applying to your project

Roof renewal does not create the same obligation throughout Switzerland. Requirements depend on the canton, type of work and rules in force. MuKEn 2025 provides model regulations: cantonal adoption must be checked. Confirm your case with the cantonal energy office and municipal building authority before finalising the quotation.

Exceptions: prepare a documented application

Grounds for exemption under the federal framework include conflict with other public-law requirements, technical impossibility or disproportionate cost. The procedure and decision belong to the competent authorities. Document heritage protection, technical constraints and costs; an installer's commercial opinion is not an exemption decision.

Questions to ask before signing

Ask for the legal basis, definition of relevant building area, required capacity or generation share, possible exceptions and notification or permit procedure. Also specify connection, responsibilities and deadlines. Distinguish the construction obligation, permission for the installation and grant eligibility.

Official sources

Frequently asked questions

Does renewing my roof automatically require solar panels?+

Not everywhere. Check current cantonal law, the scope of work and permit conditions. A national model regulation alone does not establish an obligation for your address.

What does the federal framework require for new buildings?+

Article 45a of the Energy Act covers new buildings with a relevant building area exceeding 300 m². Exceptions and cantonal electricity-generation rules must be examined for the specific project.

Who decides whether an exemption is possible?+

The competent authority under cantonal law and the building procedure. Provide the required technical, heritage or financial evidence; do not assume an exemption until it is confirmed.

Sources & method

Energy Act, Article 45a; SFOE summary of applicable law dated 6 March 2026; cantonal rules applying to the project. Checked in October 2026.

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