Blog

<h3>Why It Matters for you </h3>So, you own a home in the Portugal or Spain. Whether you live here year-round or rent it out as a holiday escape, one thing is certain: the sunshine is free, so why not make the most of it?Solar panels are a no-brainer, helping you slash energy bills and make your home more sustainable. But before you start picturing yourself sipping sangria while your roof prints money, there’s one crucial thing to know: in Portugal and Spain, solar panels MUST be installed by a certified professional - or else, you might not get the savings you expect.Let’s dive into why certification matters and how it benefits you as an international homeowner.<h3>Why You Can’t Skip a Certified Installer (Even If You Wanted To)</h3>Think of certified solar installers as the Michelin-star chefs of the solar world - except instead of making a fancy dish, they’re cooking up huge energy savings for your home.Here’s why working with a certified installer is non-negotiable in Portugal:🔥 It’s the Law – Portugal requires all solar systems to be installed by certified professionals and registered with the DGEG (Direção-Geral de Energia e Geologia). No certification = no legal registration = no savings on your energy bill. Ouch.⚡ No Shocking Surprises – Solar panels involve high-voltage electricity and rooftop installations. Certified installers follow strict safety guidelines, meaning you won’t wake up to sparks flying from your roof.📜 Paperwork? Handled. – Certified installers submit all the legal docs for you, so you don’t have to wrestle with Portuguese bureaucracy (trust us, it’s worse than a slow Wi-Fi connection).💶 Savings That Actually Show Up – If your system isn’t properly installed and registered with the authorities, you could end up paying for excess electricity your panels generate instead of saving on your bill. That’s like running a marathon and tripping at the finish line.<h3>Why Certified Installers Are Your Solar Superheroes </h3>Sure, you could hire a random handyman to slap some panels on your roof, but that’s like trusting your cousin who “watched a YouTube tutorial” to fix your car. Here’s what you get with a pro:🔧 Top-Tier Expertise – Certified installers know exactly how to design the perfect system for your home using brands like JaSolar, Trina, Jinko, Huawei, and Growatt.☀️ Maximum Sunshine, Maximum Savings – Proper placement = more energy = more money saved. A certified installer will position your panels to get the most sun all year round.📑 All the Right Paperwork – They handle every permit, form, and registration so you don’t have to. (Did we mention Portuguese bureaucracy is brutal?)🛠️ Warranty &amp; Support – Your solar system comes with warranties, and if anything goes wrong, you have a certified pro to fix it—even if you’re back home in London, Amsterdam, or Berlin.🏡 Boosted Property Value – A professionally installed solar system makes your home more attractive to buyers and renters. Plus, it shows you did things the right way.<h3>The Solar Installation Process (AKA: How We Make It Easy for You)</h3>At Sol Viva, we make going solar ridiculously simple. Here’s how it works:1️⃣ Pre-installation site visit – We assess your home’s roof, shade levels, and energy needs to design the perfect system. (Yes, we do all the math for you.)2️⃣ Custom Solar Plan – We create a system designed specifically for your home, whether you live there full-time or rent it out seasonally.3️⃣ Installation Day! – A certified team installs your panels, inverters, and battery storage (if needed) while you relax. No mess, no stress.4️⃣ Testing &amp; Approval – We make sure everything is working perfectly and submit all necessary documents to the DGEG for legal registration.5️⃣ Ongoing Support – Need help? We’re here for you, whether it’s maintenance, upgrades, or just questions about your system.<h3>The Heavy Price of Getting it Wrong</h3>Brad moved to Cascais 8 years ago from Australia and purchased a new home for his family.&nbsp; He quickly realised that with all the Portugues sunshine that installing solar was a must do in order to reduce his monthly electricity bills.Not knowing much about solar, he got a couple of quotes and went with the cheapest from a guy and company that he liked.&nbsp; They also seemed to know what they were talking about.&nbsp;&nbsp;His system at home was installed with no issues so much so that he contracted with the same company to install similar systems on his factory and office buildings.&nbsp;&nbsp;Seven years later, Brad contacted Sol Viva because he felt that the systems that he had were not big enough and maybe he needed to make them bigger.&nbsp; Having evaluated Brad's energy bills on his home, we quickly realised that something was wrong.&nbsp; Despite having a very large solar plant on his roof, he was still paying a lot for his electricity each month.&nbsp; What could be wrong he asked.&nbsp; We knew straight away.We advised Brad that almost certainly his system had not been properly registered with the authorities.&nbsp; In these situations, any excess power that the solar plant generates is not recognised by the energy meter as self consumption.&nbsp; As such, the meter adds this power to actual power that you consume from the grid.&nbsp; The net result is that you end up paying more for your power than less - the polar opposite of what you intend with solar.&nbsp;&nbsp;We further investigated Brad's other properties and they were the same - not registered.&nbsp; In total, we esimate that Brad had overpaid on his electricity bills across the 3 sites by over €100 000!&nbsp;The heavy leason learned here is to ensure that you ensure that you work with advisors and installers that are not only certified but also are accountable for and take care of the end to end process of installation and registration.&nbsp; If not, there can be a VERY HEAVY PRICE TO PAY!<h3>Why Choose Sol Viva?</h3>At Sol Vivo, we do more than just install solar panels - we make your life easier.✅ We handle ALL paperwork and legal registration ✅ High-quality brands + expert installation ✅ Custom solutions for homeowners ✅ Ongoing support, even if you’re not in Portugal or Spain all year-round<h3>Final Thought </h3>If you’re thinking about solar, don’t cut corners - make sure it’s done right. Certified installers = savings, safety, and peace of mind.Ready to power your home with the sun? Let’s chat! ☀️

The price of not choosing a certified installer

Solar Panels - Private Home Install - Sustainable Energy - Mounting Rails - Drone POV - Front

<h2>Here’s How to Find Out!</h2>Thinking about going solar but not sure if your roof is up for the job? No worries - we’ve got you covered! Understanding whether your roof is suitable for solar panels is key to making the most of your investment. Let’s break it down and see if your home is solar-ready!<h3>What Makes a Roof Great for Solar Panels?</h3>Before we dive into specific roof types, here are the main things to consider:Roof Condition:&nbsp;Your roof should be in good shape. If it’s due for repairs or a replacement soon, it’s better to handle that first.Orientation:&nbsp;South-facing roofs are ideal, but east- and west-facing roofs can still work well.Angle:&nbsp;The sweet spot for solar panels is a roof pitch between 15° and 40°.Space: You’ll need enough unobstructed roof area to fit the number of panels required to meet your energy needs.Now, let’s look at different roof types and how they work with solar panels.<h3>Common Roof Types &amp; Compatibility</h3>1. Sloped (Pitched) Roofs – The Solar Sweet Spot Sloped roofs are one of the best options for solar. Their natural tilt helps capture sunlight efficiently, especially if they face south.✅ Best pitch: 15° to 40° ✅ Best orientation: South for max power, but east/west also work well ✅ Works well for: Most homes, easy installation2. Flat Roofs – Extra Flexibility Required Yes, you can install solar on a flat roof! But since they don’t have a natural tilt, panels need to be mounted on racks or adjustable stands to get the best sun exposure.✅ Best angle: Usually around 30° (adjustable) ✅ Extra space needed: To prevent shading and optimise panel placement ✅ Works well for: Homes with large flat roof areas3. Tile Roofs – Common in Portugal and Spain &amp; Solar-Friendly Tile roofs (especially clay or terracotta) are super popular in Portugal and Spain. The good news? They work great with solar panels! Special mounting systems help secure the panels without damaging your tiles.✅ Durability: Tile roofs last a long time, making them a solid base for solar ✅ Installation: Requires special brackets, but nothing an experienced installer can’t handle ✅ Works well for: Mediterranean style homes4. Metal Roofs – Built to Last Metal roofs, especially standing seam types, are one of the best choices for solar. They’re durable, long-lasting, and often don’t require drilling into the roof.✅ Easy installation: Mounts attach directly to seams—no holes needed! ✅ Durability: Metal roofs can last 40+ years, just like solar panels ✅ Works well for: Homes with modern metal roofing5. Flat Tile Roofs – A Bit Tricky, But Doable Flat tile roofs can be slightly more challenging, but with the right mounting system, they work just fine. Racks or frames are used to raise the panels to the optimal angle.✅ Custom mounting needed: To tilt the panels correctly ✅ Works well for: Homes with flat tile roofing and enough space<h3>Do Solar Panels Only Work on South-Facing Roofs?</h3>Nope! While south-facing roofs do get the most sunlight, east- and west-facing panels can still generate a lot of power.East-facing panels = Great for homes that use more energy in the morning West-facing panels = Perfect for homes that need more power in the afternoon/evening Even if your roof isn’t perfectly positioned, solar can still be a great investment!<h3>What Else to Consider Before Installing Solar?</h3>Beyond roof type and orientation, here are a few extra things to check:Roof Age – If your roof is nearing the end of its lifespan, consider replacing it before installing solar. Shading – Watch out for trees, chimneys, or anything else that might block sunlight. Structural Integrity – Your roof needs to be strong enough to hold the panels and mounting system.&nbsp;<h3>Get a Roof Check!</h3>Still unsure if your roof is ready for solar? No problem! Our team can assess your roof and let you know your options.At Sol Viva, we specialise in solar solutions in the Portugal and Spain, helping homeowners make the switch to clean, cost-saving energy. Let’s find out if your home is ready for solar!

Is Your Roof Ready for Solar Panels?

<h2>The Appeal of Solar Power for Ex-Pats</h2>Portugal and Spain have become increasingly popular destinations for foreginers, thanks to their temperate climates, welcoming communities, and beautiful landscapes. As more individuals settle in these stunning countries, they are exploring ways to integrate into the local culture while also maintaining sustainable practices. One such practice is the adoption of solar power, which offers numerous benefits to both the environment and homeowners.Solar power is not only eco-friendly but also a financially savvy choice. Both central and southern Spain and Portugal enjoy approximately 300 days of sunshine per year, making them ideal location for harnessing solar energy. For foreigners looking to reduce their carbon footprint and energy bills, investing in solar panels can significantly lower electrical costs while contributing to a greener planet.<figure id="figure-gg5bdwx4anm8kao9sj"><img id="gg5bdwx4anm8kao9sj" src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/25ItHaHFxSw0RdHovNbfRQLsPjIjUP9GdAGX7a1IhCExocmBSkfHjK3mkLbtq0vj.jpeg" alt="solar panels Portugal" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/25ItHaHFxSw0RdHovNbfRQLsPjIjUP9GdAGX7a1IhCExocmBSkfHjK3mkLbtq0vj.jpeg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><h2>Energy Indepenence and Reliability</h2>A major advantage of solar power is the energy independence it provides. By relying on solar panels, you can decrease dependence on local utility providers and avoid price fluctuations in the energy market. This independence is particularly appealing in Portugal and Spain where grid electricity prices increase regularly.<figure id="figure-1ygon0nxwm8kaohe3"><img id="1ygon0nxwm8kaohe3" src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/30ujw4FLF7XniOgqoJ6LdXi6NUz7xUkcbP3GjziyCHtYqrxvM26DJF2Be0rJwgj3.jpeg" alt="energy independence" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/30ujw4FLF7XniOgqoJ6LdXi6NUz7xUkcbP3GjziyCHtYqrxvM26DJF2Be0rJwgj3.jpeg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure>Solar panels also offer a reliable source of energy. With minimal maintenance required, they can provide consistent electricity for decades. In the event of power outages or grid failures, solar-powered homes can continue to function independently, ensuring a steady supply of electricity.<h2>The Environmental Impact</h2>For environmentally conscious ex-pats, solar power is an attractive option due to its positive impact on the environment. Solar panels generate clean, renewable energy that significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions. By adopting solar energy, ex-pats in Portugal and Spain can contribute to global efforts to combat climate change and preserve the planet for future generations.<figure id="figure-qd5wp920wcm8kaoolg"><img id="qd5wp920wcm8kaoolg" src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/3aneA1JgyT4E6K8yrFaSGZWpYDjLMaGchmnTCK2D2wmQ6VPkApRBtUVj2OmLnjk9.jpeg" alt="eco friendly living" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/3aneA1JgyT4E6K8yrFaSGZWpYDjLMaGchmnTCK2D2wmQ6VPkApRBtUVj2OmLnjk9.jpeg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure>Additionally, using solar power reduces reliance on fossil fuels, which are major contributors to air pollution and environmental degradation. By choosing solar, ex-pats can play an active role in promoting sustainable living practices in their new communities.<h3>Enhancing Property Value</h3>Investing in solar power can also enhance the value of a property. Homes equipped with solar panels are often more attractive to potential buyers due to the promise of lower energy bills and environmental benefits. For ex-pats considering future resale, this investment can increase the property's marketability and overall worth.Moreover, as solar technology continues to advance and become more mainstream, the demand for homes with renewable energy sources is expected to rise. By installing solar panels now, ex-pats can position their property ahead of market trends.<h2>Conclusion</h2>For ex-pats living in Portugal and Spain, embracing solar power offers numerous advantages, from considerable financial savings and energy independence to a reduced environmental impact. With government incentives and ideal weather conditions, Portugal provides an excellent opportunity for those looking to adopt this sustainable technology. By investing in solar energy, ex-pats can enjoy a more eco-friendly lifestyle while enhancing their property value and contributing to a brighter future for all.

Why Ex-Pats in Portugal Should Consider Solar Power

Solar panels on the roof of the modern family houses

<h2>Understanding the Solar Market in Portugal</h2>Portugal has become a formidable player in the renewable energy sector, with solar power taking a leading role. As a sun-rich country, Portugal offers ample opportunities for harnessing solar energy, making it an attractive option for both residential and commercial properties. However, choosing the right solar company to meet your needs can be challenging. In this guide, we'll explore the key factors to consider when selecting the best solar company in Portugal.<figure id="figure-50ohthejwhm8k9t8ej"><img id="50ohthejwhm8k9t8ej" src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/25ItHaHFxSw0RdHovNbfRQLsPjIjUP9GdAGX7a1IhCExocmBSkfHjK3mkLbtq0vj.jpeg" alt="solar panels portugal" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/25ItHaHFxSw0RdHovNbfRQLsPjIjUP9GdAGX7a1IhCExocmBSkfHjK3mkLbtq0vj.jpeg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><h3>Key Considerations for Choosing a Solar Company</h3>When selecting a solar company, several factors should influence your decision. First and foremost, consider the company's reputation and experience. Established companies with a proven track record are more likely to deliver quality services. Look for customer reviews and testimonials online to gauge satisfaction levels among past clients.Another important factor is the range of services offered. A comprehensive solar company should provide a full suite of services, including consultation, installation, and maintenance. This ensures continuity and reliability throughout your solar journey.<h3>Understanding Costs and Financial Options</h3>The cost of installing solar panels can vary significantly depending on several factors such as size, technology, and installation complexity. It's important to compare quotes from different companies to ensure you are getting a competitive price. Be wary of prices that seem too good to be true, as they may compromise on quality.Additionally, inquire about financial options and incentives. Many solar companies in Portugal offer financing plans that make transitioning to solar energy more affordable. As far as subsidies go, there were government rebates available as part of the Support Program for More Sustainable Building’s.&nbsp; This was supposed to be a multi-phased programme where the government would release funding in waves starting with an initial €30m phase in 2023. &nbsp;As part of this programme, in Lisbon, you could claim a €1,000 refund on a residential solar project and €3,000 for solar plus battery installations.&nbsp; The first phase of the programme closed at the end of October, 2023, following an application period that ran for 2 months. &nbsp;Apparently there were 80 000 applications made and as of end of 2024, only 10,536 applications had been processed and paid, leaving around 55,000 applications still under review.To top it all, the Portuguese government announced at the end of last year that the programme would not continue in 2025 apparently due to complexities and management challenges. <figure id="figure-qe2zbiwbg3m8k9tg6r"><img id="qe2zbiwbg3m8k9tg6r" src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/28ojGbhO9PqlkuzdIjTdYO7AbfBjdy9737bnrhIyc1xqz6JTnxAJXZx169v5XLKO.jpeg" alt="solar energy cost" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/28ojGbhO9PqlkuzdIjTdYO7AbfBjdy9737bnrhIyc1xqz6JTnxAJXZx169v5XLKO.jpeg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><h3>Assessing Product Quality and Warranties</h3>High-quality solar panels and components are crucial for long-term performance and efficiency. Investigate the types of panels and inverters the company uses and whether they meet international standards. Opt for companies that partner with reputable manufacturers known for durable and efficient products.Equally important is the warranty offered. A reliable solar company should provide warranties on both the products and installation services. This not only safeguards your investment but also demonstrates the company's confidence in its offerings.<h3>Evaluating Customer Service and Support</h3>Excellent customer service is a hallmark of the best solar companies. From initial consultations to post-installation support, your chosen company should be responsive and attentive to your needs. Assess their communication skills during your first interactions; this is often indicative of their service quality.<figure id="figure-l16q6rq1pam8k9tmcn"><img id="l16q6rq1pam8k9tmcn" src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/31s34WaHJ8eF4f97NcehHzjS102ttIVNuvxC7hbXIUhxciFshfAnr4h1FKS3Ajz3.jpeg" alt="customer service" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/31s34WaHJ8eF4f97NcehHzjS102ttIVNuvxC7hbXIUhxciFshfAnr4h1FKS3Ajz3.jpeg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure>Furthermore, inquire about their after-sales support. Is there a dedicated team to address any issues that may arise? How quickly do they respond to service requests? These questions can help ensure that you will receive support when you need it most.<h2>Making Your Decision</h2>Choosing the right solar company in Portugal requires careful consideration of various factors including reputation, services, costs, product quality, and customer support. By thoroughly evaluating these aspects, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your energy goals and budget.&nbsp; Sol Viva have completed this vetting process for you.&nbsp; We design systems to your requirements.&nbsp; This is then presented to pre-vetted and approved installers to bid on. The most competitive is then selected for your project using a realtime marketplace.&nbsp; This ensures efficiency and effectiveness when it comes to speed, quality and price.Ultimately, investing in solar energy is a significant step towards sustainability and energy independence. With the Sol Viva by your side, you can enjoy the benefits of clean energy for years to come.

Blog

The price of not choosing a certified installer

Is Your Roof Ready for Solar Panels?

Why Ex-Pats in Portugal Should Consider Solar Power

The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Solar Company in ...