Swiss 2025 Energy Reform: A Turning Point for Buildings — and How Solskin Helps You Lead the Change

Switzerland is on the cusp of a major transformation in its energy policy. With the passage of the Federal Act on a Secure Electricity Supply from Renewable Energy Sources, approved by public referendum in June 2024, the country is implementing sweeping reforms designed to accelerate the adoption of photovoltaic (PV) systems. Starting January 2025, these new rules will fundamentally reshape the responsibilities — and opportunities — for building owners.

But where there are obligations, there are also significant financial and architectural advantages. Solskin helps you unlock them all with a system that’s not only compliant but also beautifully integrated, high-performing, and built to last.

Single-family house with Solskin dynamic PV facade system

A New Legal Landscape for Solar in Switzerland

Meeting the 300 m² Mandate—Without Limits

At the center of the reform is Article 45a of the Swiss Energy Act (EnG), which mandates the installation of solar systems on all new buildings with more than 300 m² of usable roof or facade surface. Some cantons have even adopted stricter rules, extending the obligation to smaller buildings. rooftops—as key surfaces for photovoltaic systems.

It’s encouraging to see that Swiss solar regulations now recognize facades—not just rooftops—as key surfaces for photovoltaic systems. This shift dramatically expands the potential for solar coverage, and it’s precisely where Solskin thrives. Unlike traditional PV solutions, Solskin is designed for all types of facades — from solid walls to glassed structures and even windows — without sacrificing daylight, transparency, or architectural aesthetics. Whether curved, angled, or fully glazed, there are no limitations. Solskin adapts to the building, not the other way around.

Seamless Integration, Simplified Process

Thanks to Article 18a of the Spatial Planning Act (RPG), pre-integrated PV systems like ours benefit from simplified approval procedures — generally exempt from construction permits. This makes the installation process faster and far less bureaucratic, a clear advantage in accelerating solar adoption. And because Solskin is a fully pre-integrated facade system, it fits seamlessly into this regulatory framework, enabling smooth deployment on virtually any building with minimal administrative delay.

Powering Communities: Solskin for Large-Scale Solar

We fully support large-scale solar installations, especially those designed to supply local energy communities. These systems not only help decentralize clean energy but also benefit from strong regulatory support. Under Article 15b of the Swiss Energy Act (EnG), building owners can receive partial reimbursement for grid reinforcement costs when a system over 50 kW requires local grid upgrades. Additionally, Article 15 ensures that grid operators must purchase and compensate for any excess electricity fed into the network — offering a stable and reliable revenue stream for producers.

Solskin isn’t adapting to these changes — we’re already designed for them.