Goals

The first and most important step in a photovoltaic project is the precise definition of the client's objectives. These goals are derived directly from the individual needs, expectations, and constraints of the client. A thorough needs analysis forms the basis for successful planning and implementation.

Typical goal categories and needs

  1. Profitability / Economic efficiency
    • Low levelized cost of electricity (LCOE)
    • Short payback period (Return on Investment)
    • Maximum self-consumption rate
    • Subsidies (one-time payment, feed-in tariff, etc.)
    • Minimization of operating costs
  2. Energy independence
    • Reduction of electricity purchases from the utility company
    • Increased self-sufficiency through storage solutions
    • Backup power supply in case of grid failure
    • Integration with heat pumps, e-mobility, etc.
  3. Maximum performance / Area utilization
    • Highest possible annual energy yield (kWh/year)
    • Use of all suitable roof and façade surfaces
    • Future-proofing for extensions (storage, wallbox, etc.)
  4. Aesthetics and architectural integration
    • Harmonious integration into the building (in-roof vs. on-roof)
    • Color selection (e.g. black modules, frameless, custom modules)
    • Consideration of heritage protection or neighborhood regulations
  5. Origin and sustainability of components
    • Preference for domestic or European production
    • Environmental standards in the supply chain (e.g. CO₂ footprint, recyclability)
    • Manufacturer transparency, warranty conditions
  6. Digital control & monitoring
    • Real-time self-consumption visualization
    • Smart home integration (e.g. load optimization)
    • Remote maintenance, alerts, automatic fault diagnosis
  7. Future-proofing & system openness
    • Compatibility with future technologies
    • Modularity for future extensions
    • Manufacturer independence (open standards such as Modbus, SunSpec)
  8. Regulatory framework & grid compliance
    • Compliance with local regulations (ESTI, EnDK, VSE, etc.)
    • Grid connection requirements, feed-in approval
    • Participation in collective self-consumption (ZEV/RCP)