Until now, in order to build a photovoltaic installation with a capacity of more than 50 kWp, the investor had to obtain a building permit. The procedure was often lengthy and expensive, which increased the costs from the investment. On 17 August 2023, an amendment to the Renewable Energy Sources Act came into force, which introduces significant changes. From now on, installations up to 150 kWp are exempt from the requirement to obtain a building permit, which significantly simplifies and speeds up the investment process.
Installations up to 150 kW without planning permission
Until now, a building permit was not necessary for the commissioning of so-called photovoltaic micro-installations. The amendment to the RES Act stipulates that in the Building Law in Article 29(4)(3)(c), the words '50 kW' will be replaced by '150 kW'.
The introduction of the changes is due to European Union requirements, which oblige Poland to increase the share of renewable energy sources in electricity production. The facilitation of procedures related to the construction of larger photovoltaic installations is expected to accelerate the country's energy transition and help achieve greenhouse gas emission reduction targets.
The change in regulations brings benefits for individual investors and businesses. The simplification of the investment process allows faster and cheaper implementation of photovoltaic projects with larger capacity. In addition, larger installations generate more energy, which translates into greater savings and a faster payback period.
Impact on the photovoltaic market of expanding photovoltaic capacity without planning permission:
The introduction of the new legislation may increase the number of photovoltaic installations with a capacity of 50-150 kWp. Such a situation is conducive to further development of the RES market and increase the share of renewables in the energy mix.
