Photovoltaics Masters Institute

Photovoltaics in Poland – New Settlement Rules and Regulations in 2025

Photovoltaics, like heat pumps, have become one of the fastest-growing energy sectors in Poland. Investing in photovoltaic panels is not only a way to save money but also to increase independence from rising electricity prices. By generating electricity from renewable energy sources, you can protect the environment while reducing your bills. However, in recent years, there have been significant changes in the regulations regarding the settlement of energy from photovoltaic installations. After the revolution in 2022, when Poland introduced the net-billing system, further modifications are planned for 2024. What will photovoltaics look like under the new rules, and what do these changes mean for the industry?

New Settlement Rules of Photovoltaics

New Settlement Rules for Photovoltaics – 2025

The year 2022 brought significant changes for owners of photovoltaic installations with the introduction of net-billing. This system was criticized for its less favorable conditions for selling surplus energy and higher charges for consumed electricity. In 2024, further changes were introduced that affected the profitability of photovoltaics as well as strategies for selling and installing systems.

Photovoltaics – Regulation Changes. Hourly Settlement of Electricity Production

As of July 1, 2024, a dynamic tariff system based on hourly electricity prices on the market was introduced. This means that electricity prices will fluctuate depending on demand at a given moment. The Energy Market Information Operator (OIRE) will be responsible for determining these prices, and the data will be available in the Central Energy Market Information System (CSIRE).

Photovoltaics – Settlement Rules

For photovoltaic system owners, the new settlement system allows better adaptation of energy surplus sales to market conditions. During peak demand periods with higher prices, selling energy can be more profitable. However, this requires active market monitoring and potentially investing in energy storage to manage production and consumption flexibly.

Photovoltaics Under the Old Rules Until 2024. Net-Metering – Until When?

Owners of photovoltaic installations installed in Poland before March 31, 2022, can still benefit from the previous discount system. Those who installed panels after this date could use the old system until July 1, 2024. This system allowed users to reclaim 80% of the energy fed into the grid (for installations up to 10 kW) or 70% (for installations above 10 kW) without additional charges. It is possible that dynamic tariffs and current electricity prices will prove more profitable in the long run.

Polish Virtual Prosumer – New Opportunity from July 2024

From July 2, 2024, the new photovoltaic regulations also introduce the possibility of becoming a virtual prosumer. This means that even if it is impossible to install photovoltaic panels on a particular property, one can purchase a share in the capacity of a solar farm. This allows users to settle energy consumption with their energy provider under similar conditions as traditional prosumers.

This solution is particularly attractive for apartment residents, where installing personal photovoltaic panels is not possible. A virtual prosumer can benefit from renewable energy sources and reduce their electricity bills.

Photovoltaics – Old vs. New Rules

The new photovoltaic settlement rules bring significant changes. Hourly electricity production settlements enable more precise adaptation of energy sales to current market conditions. However, this requires greater attention and knowledge of the electricity market mechanisms.

Photovoltaic panels generate the most energy during the day when sunlight is at its peak. At this time, overproduction often occurs, and energy surpluses are fed into the grid. Thanks to the new system, you can sell energy surpluses at the most favorable hours, increasing the profitability of photovoltaics.

New regulations for photovoltaics

Is Photovoltaics Still Profitable? Changes After 2024

Many people wonder whether investing in photovoltaics under the new rules will still be profitable. First, rising electricity prices and the ability to use renewable energy favor this technology. Despite changes in photovoltaic regulations, it remains an attractive option for those looking to reduce their electricity bills and gain energy independence.

Second, investing in a photovoltaic system, supported by various subsidies, may pay off faster than expected. Additionally, the option of becoming a virtual prosumer opens new opportunities for individuals who previously could not benefit from renewable energy to the extent they desired.

Photovoltaics for Businesses in 2025 – Investing in the Future

More and more entrepreneurs are investing in photovoltaic installations, recognizing the benefits of renewable energy sources. Photovoltaics not only help reduce electricity bills but also allow businesses to lower their carbon footprint, which is important in the context of increasing environmental requirements. Although installation component prices have decreased in recent years, the initial investment cost can still be a financial challenge. Fortunately, various support options are available to facilitate the implementation of photovoltaics in businesses.

Sizing Photovoltaic Installations for Businesses

Choosing the right size of a photovoltaic installation depends on the company’s energy needs and available installation space. There are three main types of systems:

  • Micro-systems up to 150 kWp – commonly used in small and medium-sized enterprises with relatively low energy demand.

  • Small systems from 150 kWp to 1 MWp – designed for larger facilities such as hotels or nursing homes.

  • Systems above 1 MWp – intended for industrial facilities and large manufacturing companies.

Each of these systems can be installed on building rooftops or on the ground, depending on the company’s spatial constraints.

Settlement Rules for Business Photovoltaics in 2025

The settlement rules for business photovoltaic energy differ depending on the installation size. Companies with micro-systems up to 150 kW settle energy surpluses similarly to private consumers – surplus energy is sold at the average monthly energy price on the Energy Commodity Exchange. For installations above 150 kW, energy surplus rates are set by the energy regulator and change quarterly.

Companies with photovoltaic installations above 1 MW must obtain a license to sell electricity under specific conditions. Additionally, firms with systems above 500 kWp must register with the Energy Regulatory Office. Non-professional energy consumers must also maintain detailed documentation of energy production and distribution and submit reports to the energy regulator every six months.

Photovoltaic Panel Prices and Market Trends in Poland

Photovoltaic panel prices have shown a downward trend for several years due to technological advancements and increased market competition. However, installation costs remain a crucial factor influencing investment decisions. It is important to remember that investing in panels pays off in the long run, and financial support available to businesses can significantly reduce initial costs.

Glossary of Photovoltaic Terms

  • Individual prosumer – a person or company producing and consuming energy for their needs while also feeding surplus energy into the grid.

  • Collective prosumer – a group of users, e.g., residents of multi-family buildings, jointly utilizing energy produced by photovoltaic panels.

  • Net-metering – an energy settlement system where energy surpluses are stored and can be withdrawn during periods of lower production.

  • Net-billing – a settlement system introduced in 2022, based on buying and selling energy at market prices.

New Photovoltaic Settlement System – Know the New Rules

The year 2024 brings significant changes to the Polish photovoltaic sector, affecting both individual users and business owners. The introduction of dynamic tariffs, new settlement rules, and the possibility of becoming a virtual prosumer open new opportunities but also require greater flexibility and monitoring of electricity market prices. Businesses planning photovoltaic investments must consider the new regulations and available funding options under programs such as Energia Plus, Mój Prąd, Gwarancja Biznesmax, or Premia Termomodernizacyjna. These incentives can significantly reduce initial costs, making photovoltaics an attractive solution for businesses.

Owners of residential and commercial photovoltaic installations should familiarize themselves with the new settlement rules and use them to their advantage. Monitoring energy prices, investing in storage solutions, and managing energy surpluses flexibly can optimize the benefits of photovoltaic installations. Renewable energy contributes not only to lower operational costs but also enhances a company’s image as an environmentally responsible entity. These arguments often convince business owners to invest in photovoltaics.

The future of the renewable energy market looks promising, and 2024 marks another step towards a more sustainable and profitable energy sector for both private and business users.

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

  1. How does the new photovoltaic settlement system in Poland impact offers for customers?
    The introduction of dynamic tariffs and new settlement rules opens up new saving opportunities for customers. It is worth adjusting offers to highlight the benefits of flexible energy management and potential profits from selling surplus energy. Informing customers about available subsidies can further increase the attractiveness of the proposal.

  2. Is investing in energy storage profitable under the new regulations?
    Yes, the introduction of dynamic tariffs in Poland makes energy storage systems more cost-effective. They allow surplus energy generated during lower-price hours to be stored and used when prices are higher. This increases energy independence and can lead to savings, making it an important factor to consider when planning an installation.

  3. How should sales strategies be adjusted in response to new trends in the Polish photovoltaic market?
    It is crucial to keep track of regulatory changes and educate customers about new opportunities, especially subsidy programs. Offering comprehensive solutions that incorporate the latest technologies and cater to individual needs can increase interest in the offer and help differentiate it from the competition.