Solar in PPE — it’s complicated, but it’s possible
40% of Swiss housing is PPE or co-ownership. And yet, the question of solar PPE remains the most poorly documented on the market. Here's what Swiss law really says — and how dozens of co-ownerships have succeeded.
If you live in an apartment or shared building, this question comes up often — and it deserves a clear and nuanced answer, not just a "it's difficult." In Switzerland, the legal framework and technical solutions have evolved rapidly since 2020. And what was an administrative wall 5 years ago has become a signposted route – not without effort, but feasible.
What Swiss law says about solar energy in PPE
In Switzerland, multi-storey property (PPE) is governed by the Civil Code (CC art. 712a et seq.). The roof of an PPE building is generally a common area — you cannot install panels there on your own without the agreement of the community of co-owners.
In practice, the roof remains a common part: the project must be voted on according to the PPE regulations and the rules of the Civil Code applicable to useful or important works. The exact requirements depend on the regulations, cost allocation and impact on common areas.
Before promising a result, validate the required majority, the distribution key, insurance and the self-consumption model. It is less spectacular than an automatic right, but much safer for a PPE buyer.
The 3 possible scenarios in PPE
Collective solar installation (the ideal plan)
The entire building installs a large facility on the common roof. Production is shared between all co-owners according to the PPE distribution key (or a negotiated key). The Pronovo Unique Reward is accessible at the community level. This is the most profitable and administratively simple scheme in the long term.
Advantage
Maximum size and Pronovo backrest possible if conditions are met.
Point of attention
Requires agreement from the assembly (qualified majority according to the PPE regulations).
Individual installation in common area (with agreement)
A co-owner wishes to install panels on a defined portion of the common roof for his exclusive use. This is possible if the assembly authorizes it, generally by a simple majority for minor work or qualified according to the regulations. The co-owner covers all costs and benefits solely from the production.
Advantage
Individual solution without waiting for the consensus of the entire building.
Point of attention
Still requires a favorable vote. The available surface area may be limited.
Local production community (RCP/LEA)
The revision of the LApEl (Electricity Supply Law) introduced the concept of Clean Consumption Grouping (RCP) and more recently Local Energy Communities (CEL). A PPE building can constitute a CEL — sharing the solar production of a member with others, within the same building, without going through the public network. Very advantageous in areas where the feed-in rate is low.
Advantage
Optimal sharing of energy between apartments. Maximum collective savings.
Point of attention
Requires group agreement, individual counting, and sometimes DSO agreement.
How to convince your audience
The financial argument is by far the most effective — but it must be presented correctly. Don't come to the meeting with a vague idea and ecological enthusiasm. Come with:
A Sonnendach simulation of the roof of the building — free, official, neutral source. It shows the potential in kWh/year and CHF of annual savings distributed between the co-owners.
A preliminary quote from a certified installer, with an estimate of the cost per PPE share and the payback per co-owner. Figures make concrete what remains abstract during the discussion.
The CECB argument — a collective installation improves the energy certificate of the entire building, which increases the value of each apartment on resale. This is an argument that speaks to investors and owner-occupiers alike.
The legal framework — stay precise: voting rules, PPE regulations, fire protection, network connection and responsibilities must be clarified in writing before ordering.
What if I am a tenant?
If you are a tenant and not an owner, you cannot initiate a roof installation. On the other hand, you can raise the issue with your landlord — some owners are open to sharing savings and production with their tenants via a CEL model. It is marginal today but growing rapidly in German-speaking Switzerland.
Sources
Swiss Civil Code — art. 712a et seq., revision 2022. Revised LApEl — Local Energy Communities 2023. OFEN — RCP and CEL guide for owners. Pronovo SA — FAQ PPE and co-ownerships.
Frequently asked questions
Can a PPE install solar panels?+
The project depends on the regulations, the community decision, the building, the connection and the authorizations. Prepare a verifiable technical and financial proposal before voting.
What should be clarified before ordering an PPE installation?+
Clarify the required decision, financing, production allocation, responsibilities, maintenance, insurance, connection and contract documents.
Can a tenant have panels installed on the roof?+
A tenant generally cannot decide on a roof installation on their own. He can propose a project to the owner or the community and examine the available local sharing models.