10 Lessons Learned from Installing a Residential Solar System in Portugal

At Sol Viva, we’ve helped countless homeowners in Portugal harness the power of the sun to reduce energy bills and embrace sustainable living. With Portugal’s abundant sunshine, averaging 2,800 to 3,300 hours annually, installing a residential solar system is a smart investment.

Based on our experience, here are 10 key lessons we’ve learned to guide you on your solar journey and show why Sol Viva is your trusted partner for photovoltaic solutions.

1. Location Matters: Maximise Sun Exposure

A south-facing, shadow-free roof with a 30-degree pitch is optimal for solar panels. Before installation, ensure your roof is robust and has enough space about 6 square meters per 1 kWp of output. Sol Viva conducts detailed site assessments to optimise panel positioning, ensuring maximum energy production for your home.

2. Understand Your Consumption Profile

Every household’s energy needs are unique. Before installing, we will analyse your consumption patterns to size the system correctly taking into account your historical consumption. We will also ask questions about any changes you plan to make including adding new devices such as pool heaters or electric vehicles all of which will add to your demand and system needs. With this information, we will customise a solutions to match your needs, avoiding over-or under-sizing.

3. Choose the Right System Type

Portugal offers two main regimes: UPAC (self-consumption) and UPP (small production for grid injection). UPAC systems reduce your bill by replacing grid energy, while UPP systems allow selling excess energy. Sol Viva helps you navigate these options, ensuring your system aligns with your financial and environmental goals.

4. Batteries Boost Independence

Systems without batteries rely on the grid at night or during low production. Adding a high-efficiency battery, like those offered by Sol Viva, stores surplus energy for use during peak hours or outages, increasing savings and energy security. 

5. Quality Panels Make a Difference

Not all solar panels are equal. High-quality panels maintain performance in Portugal’s hot summers, where low-quality options can lose up to 20% efficiency due to heat. Sol Viva only works with tier 1, low-loss panels (e.g., glass/glass N-type or bifacial) to maximise your return on investment.

6. Inverters Are Key to Efficiency

Inverters convert your panels’ DC power to AC for home use, but an undersised or low-quality inverter can reduce output. Sol Viva pairs your system with premium inverters (e.g. Huawei, GroWatt, or Fox) to minimise losses (typically ~3%) and ensure long-term reliability.

7. Take Advantage of Financial Incentives

Portugal supports solar adoption with reduced VAT (6% mainland, 5% Madeira, 4% Azores) and programs like Casa Eficiente 2020 for favorable loans. Sol Viva guides you through available incentives and our installers handle registrations with the DGEG to simplify the process.

8. Professional Installation Saves Time and Money

DIY installations can lead to delays, safety issues, and costly mistakes. Sol Viva’s turnkey service, from design to licensing and installation, ensures compliance with Portuguese regulations and a hassle-free experience. Our projects are completed in 6–10 weeks, with most installations taking just 1-2 days.

9. Selling Surplus Energy Is an Option

If your system produces excess energy, you can sell it to a grid supplier. Sol Viva helps you achieve this by ensuring that the system is registered and you are fitted with a smart meter. This way, you can turn your solar system into a revenue stream.

10. Partner with a Trusted Expert

The solar industry is growing, but not all providers offer the same expertise. Sol Viva, based in Cascais, has years of experience delivering customised, high-performance systems. Our comprehensive service includes consultations, energy savings simulations, systems design and implementation to ensure your system thrives for decades.

Why Choose Sol Viva?

With Portugal’s solar potential and Sol Viva’s expertise, going solar has never been easier. Our bespoke photovoltaic systems, battery storage options, and EV charging solutions help you save money, reduce your carbon footprint, and embrace a sustainable future.

Ready to start your solar journey? Contact us today and discover how we can transform your home with clean, renewable energy.