BFIRST
Building-integrated fibre-reinforced solar technology
Grant agreement no.: 296016
D.1.3. Report of the status on regulatory
framework for PV installations
Editor:
Michele Pellegrino
Contributor(s): Eyaggelos Mathas
José María Vega de Seoane
Ana Isabel Huidobro
Eduardo Román
Due date
Actual Date
Deliverable Number
WP
Approved by
Status
ENEA
CRES
TECNALIA
TECNALIA
TECNALIA
M30
4 February 2015 (m34)
D.1.3
WP1: General regulatory framework for BIPV systems
Eduardo Roman
Draft Working Released ⌧Delivered to EC Approved by EC
Dissemination level
X PU = Public
PP = Restricted to other programme participants (including the Commission Services)
RE = Restricted to a group specified by the consortium (including the Commission Services)
CO = Confidential, only for members of the consortium (including the Commission Services)
© Copyright BFIRST Project 2015 - All Rights Reserved
D.1.3. Report of the status on regulatory
framework for PV installations – update 04/02/2015
Document history
V
Date
Author
Description
0.1 30-11-2012
0.2 04-02-2015
ENEA
ENEA
First version, delivered to EC
Second version
BFIRST: GA no.: 296016
D1.3 Update
The information in this document is provided as is and no guarantee or warranty is given that
the information is fit for any particular purpose. The user thereof uses the information at its
sole risk and liability.
Disclaimer
The document reflects only the author’s views and the Community is not liable for any use
that may be made of the information contained therein.
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Summary
The main objective of the “Task 1.3: Regulatory framework for BIPV systems (ENEA, CRES,
TECNALIA) is to present the actual scenario for PV, in particular BIPV, at centralized level, e.g.
European level, and how the regulations have been applied in some of the Member States, in particular
Italy, Spain, Greece and Belgium.
Feed-in tariffs (FiT) and other initiatives launched by EU Governments to promote BIPV, e.g.
beneficial credit terms for “green loans”; tax incentives through tax credits for material costs or VAT
reduction on material and installation cost for residential customers, etc. will be identified and studied.
But BIPV systems are foreseen to succeed even in scenarios without Government incentives. This will
happen once the cost of solar electricity equals the cost of electricity from the grid, the so called gridparity.
The grid parity situation will open up opportunities for new business models, such as the leasing of
solar energy systems.
This could remove the hurdles facing private households of making an initial solar system investment,
which is one of the most important barriers.
Considering the above information, a collection of regulatory framework about how specific EU
countries have solved the grid-parity and net-metering issues will be identified and analysed.
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Contents
SUMMARY............................................................................................................................. 3
ABBREVIATIONS ................................................................................................................ 6
1. INTRODUCTION .............................................................................................................. 7
2. OBJECTIVES..................................................................................................................... 8
3. GENERAL FRAMEWORK ............................................................................................. 9
3.1 EUROPEAN ENERGY POLICY ............................................................................................. 9
3.1.1 A Policy For Energy ........................................................................................................ 9
3.1.2 Factors Contributing To The Development Of Energy Policy ..................................... 11
3.1.3 Market-Based Instruments ............................................................................................ 12
3.1.4 Research and innovation ............................................................................................... 13
3.1.5 Financial instruments .................................................................................................... 14
3.2 INTERNAL ENERGY MARKET ......................................................................................... 15
3.2.1 A competitive internal market ....................................................................................... 15
3.2.2 An interconnected internal market ................................................................................ 16
3.2.3 Public procurement ....................................................................................................... 18
3.2.4 Taxation ......................................................................................................................... 18
3.3 ENERGY EFFICIENCY ...................................................................................................... 19
3.3.1 Policy orientations ......................................................................................................... 19
3.3.2 Delivering energy efficiency ......................................................................................... 21
3.3.3 Energy efficiency of products ....................................................................................... 22
3.4 RENEWABLE ENERGY .................................................................................................... 23
3.5 SECURITY OF SUPPLY, EXTERNAL DIMENSION AND ENLARGEMENT ............................... 25
3.6 QUALIFICATION FRAMEWORK........................................................................................ 27
4. NATIONAL FRAMEWORK.......................................................................................... 29
4.1 ITALY .......................................................................................................................... 29
4.1.1 Technical Framework .................................................................................................... 29
4.1.1 Total feed-in scheme ..................................................................................................... 34
4.1.2 Economical Framework ................................................................................................ 40
4.1.3 Authorization Framework ............................................................................................. 41
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4.1.4 Qualification Framework .............................................................................................. 46
4.2 SPAIN........................................................................................................................... 50
4.2.1 Technical framework..................................................................................................... 50
4.2.3 Authorization framework .............................................................................................. 61
4.2.4 Qualification framework ............................................................................................... 62
4.3 GREECE....................................................................................................................... 75
4.3.1 Technical framework..................................................................................................... 75
4.3.2 Economical framework ................................................................................................. 76
4.3.3 Authorization framework .............................................................................................. 78
4.3.4 Qualification framework ............................................................................................... 80
4.4 BELGIUM .................................................................................................................... 80
4.4.1 Technical framework..................................................................................................... 82
4.4.2 Economical framework ................................................................................................. 84
4.4.3 Authorization framework .............................................................................................. 87
4.4.4 Qualification framework ............................................................................................... 88
5. CONCLUSIONS............................................................................................................... 95
5.1 TECHNICAL FRAMEWORK .............................................................................................. 95
5.2 ECONOMICAL FRAMEWORK ........................................................................................... 96
5.3 AUTHORIZATION FRAMEWORK ...................................................................................... 97
5.4 QUALIFICATION FRAMEWORK........................................................................................ 98
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS ............................................................................................... 100
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Abbreviations
BIPV
Building Integrated Photovoltaics
BFIRST
Building-integrated fibre-reinforced solar technology
CPD
Construction Products Directive
CPR
Construction Products Regulation
EQF
European Qualifications Framework
EU
European Union
GEEREF
Global Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Fund
TBC
Technical Building Code
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1. Introduction
The overall objective for BFIRST project is the development and demonstration of a set of
standardized multifunctional photovoltaic products for building integration based on a
recently developed technology for solar cells encapsulation within glass fibre-reinforced
composite materials.
An objective of BFIRST project is to provide clearly defined performance characteristics of
these products and to develop all accompanying guidelines for their use. This will help the
exploitation of the newly designed products by all the parties involved in the design of
buildings such as architects, engineers etc.
As part of BFIRST project the products will be characterized and tested for their intended use,
according to the current normative framework. The first step in doing so is the inquire and
identification of the requirements applicable on BIPV products, both as units for electricity
production and as building elements, originated by European Standards and National Building
Codes.
In WP1 of the project the regulatory framework for BIPV systems is identified, with emphasis
on requirements of BIPV according to European Directives and Standards and National
Building Codes, especially for the countries involved in the demonstration part of the project.
This deliverable contains the results of the survey on European activities aimed to draw the
general framework for secure a sustainble developping of energy with particular emphasis on
renewables, identifying the main drawbacks and the proposed measures for removing them.
Italy, Spain and Greece are chosen among the National European Members State since they
are the main countries where the feed-in tariffs have been succesfully applied. Belgium is the
country where the prototype will be installed.
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2. Objectives
BIPV is an alluring technology that can be proposed and adopted for different purposes such
as to provide a form of sustainable energy since it is renewable, to provide a way to cover a
large percentage of building power consumptions since it can be added or integrated on
buildings, to help the Country and the Municipalities to increase the use of low- carbon fuel,
to avoid the greenhouse emission, to secure the power supply. The drawbacks have been the
general high cost sometime thought to be too much for the private end-users. Other obstacles
have been the authorization framework that has posed for past barriers difficult to be
overcome and the need to ensure a good quality.
All these aspects have been considered it the EU that have endorsed different directives and
documentation. Member states shall adopt the European directives and have to try to reduce
the obstacles for developing the internal market and to avoid any technical or non technical
obstacle that can perturb the free market.
Italy, Spain and Greece are chosen among the National European State Members since they
are the main countries where the feed-in tariffs have been extensively applied. Belgium is the
country where the prototype will be installed.
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3. General framework
Energy is one of the concerns of Europe. It is essential, then, for the European Union (EU) to
address the major energy challenges facing us today, i.e. climate change, the increasing
dependence on imports, the strain on energy resources and access for all users to affordable,
secure energy. The EU has put in place an ambitious energy policy - covering the full range of
energy sources from fossil fuels (oil, gas and coal) to nuclear energy and renewables (solar,
wind, biomass, geothermal, hydro-electric and tidal) - in a bid to spark a new industrial
revolution that will deliver a low-energy economy, whilst making the energy we do consume
more secure, competitive and sustainable.
This section covers the role and the strategy related to renewables, in particular photovoltaics,
and it is divided in the following five chapters.
1.
European energy policy
2.
Internal energy market
3.
Energy efficiency
4.
Renewable energy
5.
Security of supply, external dimension and enlargement
3.1 European energy policy
The Treaty of Lisbon, signed by the EU member states on 13 December 2007 and entered into
force on 1 December 2009, placed energy at the heart of European activity. It effectively
gives it a new legal basis which it lacked in the previous treaties (Article 194 of the Treaty on
the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU)).
The aims of the policy are supported by market-based tools (mainly taxes, subsidies and the
CO2 emissions trading scheme), by developing energy technologies (especially technologies
for energy efficiency and renewable or low-carbon energy) and by Community financial
instruments. Furthermore, in December 2008 the EU adopted a series of measures with the
objective of reducing the EU’s contribution to global warming and guaranteeing energy
supply
3.1.1 A Policy For Energy
•
A strategy for competitive, sustainable and secure energy
In 2007, the Council adopted energy goals aiming to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by
20%, to increase the share of renewable energy to 20% and to make a 20% improvement in
energy efficiency.
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European Energy Program for Recovery
In order to remedy the effects of the financial and energy crises which affected the European
economy in 2008, targeted measures have adopted. To this end, the European Energy
Program for Recovery provides for the granting of financial assistance to the energy sector,
especially for the introduction of interconnection infrastructures, energy production based on
renewable sources, carbon capture and for the promotion of energy efficiency.
•
Energy Security and Solidarity Action Plan
The Union has been importing more than 50 % of its energy. Therefore a new policy on
energy and the environment has been required. This policy was approved by the European
Council in March 2007. During September of the same year the third package of legislative
measures on the internal energy market was presented. In the long term it will allow the
objectives of sustainable development, competitiveness and security of supply to be attained.
Security and solidarity are essential factors contributing to an efficient energy policy. The EU
intends to change its energy policy by putting the accent on these two values. The aim is to
reduce energy consumption by almost 15 % and energy imports by 26 % by 2020. In this
perspective a plan was proposed, organized around five main points, to contribute to
achieving these aims. It is hoped that by 2050 renewable energies will completely replace
carbon-producing energies.
•
An Energy Policy for Europe
A European Energy Policy will firmly commit the European Union (EU) to a low
consumption economy based on more secure, more competitive and more sustainable energy.
Priority energy objectives involve ensuring the smooth functioning of the internal market in
energy, security of strategic supply, concrete reductions in greenhouse gas emissions caused
by the production or consumption of energy and the EU's ability to speak with a single voice
on the international stage.
•
Green Paper: An European strategy for sustainable, competitive and secure energy
This Green Paper marks an important milestone in developing a common energy policy by
regrouping the disparate range of energy policies into a common strategy for Europe. It also
marks the start of a public consultation period during which a series of concrete measures will
be launched in the field of energy. The spring 2006 European Council used the Green Paper's
recommendations as a basis for a new European energy policy.
In this Green Paper, the Commission proposes a common European energy policy which will
enable Europe to face the energy supply challenges of the future and the effects these will
have on growth and the environment. The EU must act quickly and effectively in six priority
areas to ensure that it has an energy supply which is sustainable, competitive and secure. The
internal market, energy efficiency, research and an external policy will all contribute to
making Europe a strong player on the international stage.
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3.1.2 Factors Contributing To The Development Of Energy Policy
•
Strategy on climate change for 2020 and beyond
•
Reducing greenhouse gases by 20 % or more by 2020
The EU is committed to reducing its greenhouse gas emissions by 20 % by 2020.
However, it estimates that the goal of a 30 % reduction is also viable, providing the
international situation allows it. A Communication issued by EU analysed the
implementing means and the possible consequences associated with the target of a 20
% and a 30 % reduction in greenhouse gas emissions
•
Reducing greenhouse gases by 2050
The objective of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change
(UNFCCC), approved by Decision 94/69/EC, is to stabilize greenhouse gas
concentrations. It is essential that the global annual temperature does not exceed 2° C
above pre-industrial levels. In this regard, emissions of these gases should be reduced
by 50 % by 2050.
•
Information on investment projects in energy infrastructure
Substantial investment in European energy infrastructure is required in order to guarantee the
EU a secure energy supply, to contribute to the smooth functioning of the internal energy
market and to transform the European energy system into a low-carbon system. The European
Commission should have access to regular information on investment projects in energy
infrastructure within the EU. EU prepared a Regulation that meets this requirement by
establishing a framework for the exchange of data and information on future production,
transmission and storage capacities for energy.
•
“Green” vehicles: a European strategy
On 28 April 2010, the European Commission presented a strategy for clean and energy
efficient vehicles (“green vehicles”) aimed at encouraging the development and market uptake
of these vehicles. This strategy will enable the environmental impact of road transport to be
reduced and will boost the competitiveness of the automobile industry. This action comes
under the framework of the Europe 2020 strategy.
•
Strategy for sustainable development
The EU has formulated a long-term strategy to dovetail the policies for economically, socially
and environmentally sustainable development, its goal being sustainable improvement of the
well-being and standard of living of current and future generations.
The main lines of the strategy that the Commission proposed in 2001 were set out in the
conclusions of the Gothenburg European Council of June 2001. It also formed part of the EU
preparatory work for the 2002 world summit on sustainable development (Rio + 10) held in
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Johannesburg. Before that summit the Commission presented another communication on how
the Union should contribute towards sustainable development in the world; elements of that
communication were incorporated into the strategy when it was reviewed.
•
Integrating the environment into Community energy policy
The EU is establishing a set of measures for further integration of environmental
considerations in energy policy and is reviewing progress made so far.
As pointed out in the Commission Communication "An overall view of energy policy and
actions", the production, transport and use of energy have a considerable impact on the
environment. One of the main challenges facing Community energy policy is therefore to
incorporate the environmental dimension into its objectives and actions while developing a
sustainable energy policy. The Communication proposes specific measures to this end and
reviews progress made.
So far, the Community has taken several measures which may help to integrate the
environment into energy policy.
•
European Energy and Transport Forum
The Decision is based on the conclusions of the Transport Council of 20 September 2000
which called upon the Commission to set up a transport forum, and also the need to establish
a replacement for the Energy Consultative Committee set up in 1996, the mandate of which
expired in February 2001. Given the interdependence of energy and transport policies and the
need to bring them more into line with each other, the Commission considers it useful to
create a single forum for these two policies.
The Forum will examine all subjects connected with transport and energy, including social
and environmental objectives, etc.
This Decision aims to create a consultative committee consisting of qualified representatives
of the energy and transport sectors whose role is to express an opinion on all Commission
initiatives relating to energy and transport policy. The committee will also act as an observer.
It will comment on competitiveness and changes in the structure of the sectors, taking into
account environmental, social and safety considerations.
3.1.3
•
Market-Based Instruments
Greenhouse gas emission allowance trading scheme
The adoption of the Kyoto Protocol by the Community and its Member States in 2002
commits them to reducing their greenhouse gas emissions by 8 % in relation to 1990 levels
between 2008 and 2012. This Directive, by establishing a market in greenhouse gas emission
allowances, will help the EU and its Member States to effectively meet the commitments
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made in the framework of the Kyoto Protocol while safeguarding economic development and
employment.
In March 2007, the European Council approved the target of reducing greenhouse gas
emissions by 30 % by 2020 compared to 1990 levels, as a contribution with a view to an
agreement after 2012, on condition that other developed countries undertake to set
comparable reduction targets, depending on their respective responsibilities and capacities.
The EU is strongly committed to reducing its greenhouse gas emissions by at least 20 % by
2020 compared to 1990 levels. In October 2009, the European Council supported the
objective of reducing emissions by 80 to 95 % by 2050 compared to 1990 levels, within the
context of the IPPC Directive. The Copenhagen Conference from 7 to 18 December 2009 is
also in line with those objectives.
The EU is establishing a scheme for greenhouse gas emission allowance trading for the costeffective reduction of such emissions. This scheme should enable the EU and the Member
States to meet the commitments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions made in the context of
the Kyoto Protocol. Installations operating in the energy sector, iron and steel production and
processing, the mineral industry and the paper and board industry will automatically be
subject to the emission trading scheme.
•
Community framework for the taxation of energy products and electricity
The EU establishes general arrangements for the taxation of energy products and electricity.
The EU system of minimum rates, which for a long time was confined to mineral oils, is
extended to coal, natural gas and electricity. This system sets the minimum rates of taxation
applicable to energy products when used as motor or heating fuels and to electricity. It
therefore aims to improve the functioning of the internal market by reducing distortions in
competition between mineral oils and other energy products. In line with the EU's objectives
and the Kyoto Protocol, it encourages more efficient use of energy so as to reduce dependence
on imported energy products and limit greenhouse gas emissions. Also in the interests of
protecting the environment, it authorises EU countries to grant tax advantages to businesses
that take specific measures to reduce their emissions.
3.1.4 Research and innovation
•
SET-Plan for the development of low carbon technologies
Following on from the Communication - A European strategic energy technology plan (SETPlan) - Towards a low carbon future, this Communication sets out the different types of
initiative that the EU should put in place in order to steer the current energy system towards a
low carbon model. It also proposes methods of funding for these initiatives.
The SET program contributes to the energy and climate targets for 2020 and the longer term.
It seeks to reverse the present trend in primary energy supply in the EU, which is currently 80
% dependent on fossil fuels.
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Through the SET-Plan, the European Commission proposes to develop clean energy
technologies and to put in place specific actions to establish a low carbon industry. The
Commission therefore proposes to act in the fields of:
•
solar energy: the implementation of the SET-Plan should equip the EU with a longterm research program focused on advanced photovoltaic systems. In particular, the
Commission proposes to create pilot plants for automated mass production and a
portfolio of demonstration projects for both centralised and decentralised photovoltaic
power production. These projects should allow 15 % of electricity to be generated by
solar power in 2020 and create 200,000 skilled jobs. The cost of these investments is
estimated as EUR 16 billion.
•
the electricity grid: the aim is to establish a sound basis for creating a real internal
market, to increase the share of intermittent energy sources in total energy production,
and to manage complex interactions between suppliers and customers. The goal is to
connect 50 % of traditional electricity networks to plants generating renewable energy
by 2020. It is estimated that EUR 2 billion will be needed to finance these networks.
•
energy efficiency: the Smart Cities Initiative aims at promoting the creation of market
opportunities for energy efficiency technologies. Through an investment of EUR 11
billion, this initiative should make it possible, by 2020, to establish cities as nuclei
from which energy efficiency technologies will spread. Smart networks, a new
generation of buildings and low carbon transport solutions will be developed. The aim
of these Smart Cities is to transform the energy system.
3.1.5 Financial instruments
•
Competitiveness and Innovation Framework Program (CIP) (2007-2013)
The Lisbon Process, whose objective is to make Europe the most competitive and dynamic
knowledge-based economy in the world, has naturally made competitiveness one of the EU’s
key political concerns. In order to ensure greater coherence between the different programs
involved in the Community’s efforts to enhance competitiveness, and in response to the
objectives set by the renewed Lisbon Strategy, the European Commission is proposing a
framework program for innovation and competitiveness.
In order to meet the objectives of the renewed Lisbon strategy, and thus stimulate growth and
employment in Europe, a Competitiveness and Innovation Framework Program CIP has been
adopted for the period 2007-2013. The program supports measures to strengthen
competitiveness and innovation capacity in the EU. It particularly encourages the use of
information technologies, environmental technologies and renewable energy sources.
•
Seventh Framework Program (2007 to 2013)
Since 1984, the EU has run its research and technological development policy on the basis of
multiannual framework programs. The 7th Framework Program is the second since the
launching of the Lisbon Strategy in 2000 and should play a fundamental role in growth and
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employment in Europe in years to come. The Commission wants to develop the knowledge
triangle formed by research, education and innovation policies, in order to place knowledge at
the service of a dynamic economy and social and environmental progress.
Research is a component of a knowledge triangle (the other two being education and
innovation) meant to boost growth and employment in the EU in the context of a global
economy. The 7th Framework Program for Research, covering the period 2007 to 2013, is an
opportunity for the EU to match its research policy to its ambitions in terms of economic and
social policy by consolidating the European Research Area (ERA). In order to achieve this
objective, the Commission hopes to increase the EU's annual spending on research, thereby
generating more national and private investment in this field. When it is implemented, the 7th
Framework Program will also have to respond to the research and knowledge needs of
industry and more generally of EU policies. The Framework Program is organised around
four main programs and has been greatly simplified so as to be more effective and more
accessible to researchers.
3.2 Internal Energy Market
To create a genuine internal market for energy is one of the EU's priority objectives. The
existence of a competitive internal energy market is a strategic instrument in terms both of
giving European consumers a choice between different companies supplying gas and
electricity at reasonable prices, and of making the market accessible for all suppliers,
especially the smallest and those investing in renewable forms of energy. Making the internal
energy market a reality will depend above all on having a reliable and coherent energy
network in Europe and therefore on infrastructure investment. A truly integrated market will
contribute to diversification and thus to security of supply.
3.2.1 A competitive internal market
•
Agency for the Cooperation of Energy Regulators
To facilitate the consultation of Member States’ regulatory bodies, Commission Decision
2003/796/EC has established an independent consultation group for the electricity and gas
sectors (European Regulatory Group for Electricity and Gas or ERGEG). Although the results
of its work are positive, it became apparent that Member States need to cooperate under a
Community structure in order to strengthen the internal market in gas and electricity.
The Agency for the Cooperation of Energy Regulators was created with the aim of assisting
the authorities regulating energy markets to exercise at Community level the regulatory tasks
performed in the Member States and, where necessary, to coordinate their action
•
Internal market in electricity (from March 2011)
The Communications entitled ‘Prospects for the internal gas and electricity market’ and
‘Sector inquiry into the gas and electricity markets’ emphasised the inadequate framing of the
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rules and measures in force relating to the internal electricity market. The Commission
deemed it important to amend the current rules with a view to ensuring fair competition and
supplying electricity at the lowest possible price in order to complete the internal market in
energy.
In the light of the dysfunction in the internal market in electricity, the European Commission
considered it necessary to redefine the rules and measures applying to that market in order to
guarantee fair competition and appropriate consumer protection.
•
Sector inquiry into the gas and electricity markets
Complaints about the barriers to market entry or even about consumer difficulties in choosing
their supplier led the Commission to open an inquiry into the operation of the gas and
electricity markets. The initial results were the subject of public consultation, enabling
contributions from companies in the energy sector and traditional operators, and also from
new entrants, national regulators, competition authorities, network operators and consumers.
The Commission presents the final report of the sector inquiry.
A sector inquiry into the gas and electricity markets confirms the existence of distorted
competition preventing companies and consumers from taking full advantage of liberalisation
•
Transparency of gas and electricity prices
The transparency of energy prices ensures that competition is not distorted and thus
contributes to the smooth functioning of the internal market. In this regard, this Directive lays
down procedures relating to the circulation of information and the prices of gas and
electricity.
3.2.2 An interconnected internal market
•
Green Paper - Towards a secure, sustainable and competitive European energy
network
At the present time, European energy networks require significant modernisation as well as
the development of east-west and north-south connections so as to ensure energy security in
the EU.
The Green Paper opens a debate on the establishment of a clear and stable legal framework
aimed at increasing solidarity and security in the supply of energy in the EU.
Energy transportation networks in Europe should undergo significant transformations. They
should be adapted to the growing needs of an enlarged EU as well as the climate and energy
objectives fixed by the European Commission. In this context, trans-European energy
networks require new interconnections as well as diversified funding sources so as to
contribute to a more secure and more integrated European energy network.
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Trans-European energy networks
New guidelines for trans-European energy networks (TEN-E) list and rank, according to the
objectives and priorities laid down, projects eligible for Community assistance, and introduce
the concept of 'project of European interest'. They also strengthen project coordination and
now fully incorporate the new Member States.
The establishment and development of trans-European networks, including in the energy
sector, are set out in Article 154 of the Treaty establishing the European Community. Articles
155 and 156 of the EC Treaty provide for the adoption of guidelines to define the objectives,
priorities and broad lines of measures for them.
The new Community guidelines update the guidelines adopted in 2003, which themselves
updated the original guidelines adopted in 1996.
•
Community financial aid to trans-European networks
Trans-European network policy depends on financial instruments being available to support
projects with the highest trans-European added value. This regulation establishes the
conditions and procedures for granting Community aid to projects of common interest in the
field of trans-European networks for transport, energy and telecommunications
•
Priority Interconnection Plan (PIP)
An efficient energy infrastructure is essential for the internal energy market to work properly
and to achieve the EU’s targets for sustainable development, competitiveness and secure
energy supplies. This requires considerable investment in the existing gas and electricity
networks along with rapid development of their interconnection
•
Conditions for access to the network for cross-border exchanges in electricity (up until
March 2011)
The Regulation lays down fair rules for cross-border exchanges in electricity, thus enhancing
competition within the internal market in electricity while taking into account the specificities
of national and regional markets. The aim is to promote cross-border trade in electricity,
which remains underdeveloped compared with other sectors, by laying down basic rules
regarding access to networks for cross-border transactions.
•
Cross-border exchanges in electricity (from 2011)
The 1997 Commission Communication “An Energy Policy for Europe” highlighted the
importance of creating an internal market for electricity and the implementation of fair
competition between the various operators. As the rules and measures in force were not
sufficient for achieving these objectives, it was necessary to adopt new provisions.
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Barriers to competition still remain in the internal market in electricity. This Regulation lays
down rules providing a framework for cross-border exchanges in electricity in order to
alleviate these difficulties.
•
Smart Grids
Smart Grids enable consumers to control and manage their own energy use and therefore
contribute towards establishing a power system that generates less carbon. The European
Commission proposes to use these grids to their full capacity in order to achieve its objectives
of reducing primary energy consumption
3.2.3 Public procurement
•
Public procurement in the water, energy, transport and postal services sectors
Public procurement plays an important role in the overall economic performance of the EU.
European public authorities spend around 18 % of GDP on purchasing supplies, works and
services. The current directives on public procurement, specifically Directive 2004/17/EC and
2004/18/EC are the products of a long process which began in 1971 with the adoption of
Directive 71/305/EEC. By ensuring transparent, non-discriminatory procedures, these
Directives aimed principally to ensure that economic operators could fully enjoy fundamental
freedoms in the competition for public procurement contracts.
This Directive responds to the need to guarantee the opening up of contracts and a fair
balance in applying the rules for granting contracts in the water, energy, transport and postal
services sectors. It aims to preserve equal treatment between public sector and private sector
contracting bodies.
•
Remedies mechanisms: water, energy, transport and postal services sectors
A Community system of remedies relating to the award of contracts in the water, energy,
transport and postal services sectors allows injured parties to protect their interests
3.2.4 Taxation
•
Community framework for the taxation of energy products and electricity
The EU establishes general arrangements for the taxation of energy products and electricity.
The EU system of minimum rates, which for a long time was confined to mineral oils, is
extended to coal, natural gas and electricity. This system sets the minimum rates of taxation
applicable to energy products when used as motor or heating fuels and to electricity. It
therefore aims to improve the functioning of the internal market by reducing distortions in
competition between mineral oils and other energy products. In line with the EU's objectives
and the Kyoto Protocol, it encourages more efficient use of energy so as to reduce dependence
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on imported energy products and limit greenhouse gas emissions. Also in the interests of
protecting the environment, it authorises EU countries to grant tax advantages to businesses
that take specific measures to reduce their emissions
3.3 Energy efficiency
Reducing energy consumption and eliminating energy wastage are among the main goals of
the EU. EU support for improving energy efficiency will prove decisive for competitiveness,
security of supply and for meeting the commitments on climate change made under the Kyoto
Protocol. There is significant potential for reducing consumption, especially in energyintensive sectors such as buildings, manufacturing, energy conversion and transport. At the
end of 2006, the EU pledged to cut its annual consumption of primary energy by 20% by
2020. To achieve this goal, it is working to mobilize public opinion, decision-makers and
market operators and to set minimum energy efficiency standards and rules on labelling for
products, services and infrastructure.
3.3.1 Policy orientations
•
Energy Efficiency Plan 2011
Energy efficiency is considered to be a key component of European energy policy. It therefore
constitutes one of the cornerstones of the EU’s 2020 strategy. This Plan proposes several
directions for a transition towards a more efficient economy as regards the use of energy
resources.
In November 2008, the Commission published the Communication “Energy efficiency:
delivering the 20 % target” recommending a reduction of 20 %, by 2020, of primary energy
consumption. It transpired that this target would be difficult to achieve if the EU did not
exploit the considerable potential of energy savings in sectors such as buildings and transport.
This Plan therefore proposes new overarching guidelines for energy efficiency taking account
of current parameters.
•
Energy efficiency for the 2020 goal
Member States have made a commitment to reduce consumption of primary energy by 20%
by 2020. There are still many barriers to the implementation of effective measures. This
communication describes the current position of future projects aiming to reach the ‘20-2020’ goal.
The need to increase energy efficiency is part of the triple goal of the '20-20-20' initiative for
2020, which means a saving of 20% of the Union's primary energy consumption and
greenhouse gas emissions, as well as the inclusion of 20% of renewable energies in energy
consumption.
•
Action Plan for Energy Efficiency (2007-12)
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In its Green Paper on the European Energy Strategy the Commission underlines the need to
strengthen its energy efficiency policy. In addition, the target for a 20 % reduction in energy
consumption set in this Action Plan is part of the measures requested by the European
Council in March 2006 to ensure the environmental feasibility of European Energy Policy.
The policies and measures contained in this Action Plan are based on the consultations
launched by the 2005 Green Paper on Energy Efficiency.
The Commission has adopted an Action Plan aimed at achieving a 20 % reduction in energy
consumption by 2020. The Action Plan includes measures to improve the energy performance
of products, buildings and services, to improve the yield of energy production and
distribution, to reduce the impact of transport on energy consumption, to facilitate financing
and investments in the sector, to encourage and consolidate rational energy consumption
behaviour and to step up international action on energy efficiency
•
Competitiveness and Innovation Framework Program (CIP) (2007-2013)
In order to meet the objectives of the renewed Lisbon strategy, and thus stimulate growth and
employment in Europe, a Competitiveness and Innovation Framework Program CIP has been
adopted for the period 2007-2013. The program supports measures to strengthen
competitiveness and innovation capacity in the EU. It particularly encourages the use of
information technologies, environmental technologies and renewable energy sources.
The Lisbon Process, whose objective is to make Europe the most competitive and dynamic
knowledge-based economy in the world, has naturally made competitiveness one of the EU’s
key political concerns. In order to ensure greater coherence between the different programs
involved in the Community’s efforts to enhance competitiveness, and in response to the
objectives set by the renewed Lisbon Strategy, the European Commission is proposing a
framework program for innovation and competitiveness.
•
The Global Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Fund (GEEREF)
A proposal has been made to set up a Global Fund of risk capital with a budget of 100 million
to mobilise private investment in projects promoting energy efficiency and renewable energy
in developing countries and emerging economies.
The constant increase in demand for global energy has serious consequences, in particular in
terms of air quality, resources and access to energy. The need to ensure sustainable
development requires not only combating climate change but also eradicating energy poverty
and securing energy supply. It is therefore essential to harness investments in energy
efficiency and renewable energy.
The GEEREF initiative is an integral part of the approach put forward in the Green Paper " A
European Strategy for Sustainable, Competitive and Secure Energy ".
•
Green Paper on energy efficiency
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The Commission wishes to relaunch EU action in energy saving using this Green Paper. It
invites public authorities to make citizens and businesses more accountable by rewarding
energy saving behavior. Energy efficiency is a major challenge as current developments in
energy consumption threaten the environment and the economic growth of the EU. Efforts
must be made in the transport, energy production and building sectors in particular.
Five years after the Commission's action plan of 2000-06 on energy efficiency, this Green
Paper attempts to relaunch the debate at all levels of European society, to find solutions
adapted to this urgent and universal problem. Consultation with all interested parties should
lead to concrete measures, for example national action plans to establish best practice in terms
of energy saving. This would allow the EU to operate at the centre of the international effort
against climate change and depletion of energy resources.
•
"Intelligent Energy for Europe" program (2003-2006)
This Decision establishes a new multiannual program for action in the field of energy. It
reflects the EU's current objectives in this field, namely sustainable development and security
of supply, which reflects the EU’s current objectives in this field, namely sustainable
development and security of supply.
The multiannual program for action in the field of energy, "Intelligent Energy for Europe",
implements the broad lines of action described in the Green Paper on the European Strategy
for security of energy supply. This Green Paper aims at strengthening the security of energy
supply, combating climate change and boosting the competitiveness of EU businesses.
The Intelligent Energy for Europe" program, which is a specific sub-program of the
Competitiveness and Innovation Framework Program (2007-13), allows the 2003-06
Intelligent Energy program to continue.
•
Action Plan for energy efficiency (2000-2006)
The Commission presents an Action Plan aimed at reducing energy consumption by
improving energy efficiency. The goal is to protect the environment, enhance security of
energy supply and establish a more sustainable energy policy.
3.3.2 Delivering energy efficiency
•
Energy performance of building
The buildings sector represents 40% of the EU total energy consumption. Reducing energy
consumption in this area is therefore a priority under the “20-20-20” objectives on energy
efficiency. This Directive contributes to achieving this aim by proposing guiding principles
for Member States regarding the energy performance of buildings
•
Energy end-use efficiency and energy services
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The EU has adopted a framework for energy end-use efficiency and energy services. Among
other things, this includes an indicative energy savings target for the Member States,
obligations on national public authorities as regards energy savings and energy efficient
procurement and measures to promote energy efficiency and energy services.
The Green Paper on the security of energy supply highlighted that, if no action is taken, the
European Union’s dependence on external energy sources will increase from 50 % to 70 % by
2030 according to current estimates. At the same time, the EU is continuing to produce more
and more CO2 and other greenhouse gases and the human activities associated with the energy
sector are responsible for no less than 78 % of Union greenhouse gas emissions. This is why
efforts must now focus on improving end-use energy efficiency and controlling energy
demand.
•
Cogeneration
The energy-saving potential of cogeneration is currently under-utilised in the EU. The
purpose of this Directive is to facilitate the installation and operation of electrical
cogeneration plants (a technology allowing the production in one process of heat and
electricity) in order to save energy and combat climate change.
Cogeneration saves energy and improves security of supply. However, there is still
considerable unexploited potential for cogeneration in the Member States. Moreover
cogeneration would make it possible to:
•
reduces losses on the electrical grid because cogeneration installations are usually
closer to the consumption point;
•
increase competition among electricity producers;
•
set up new enterprises;
•
save energy in isolated or extremely remote areas.
3.3.3 Energy efficiency of products
•
Product energy consumption: Information and labelling (from July 2011)
The previous Directive on the energy consumption labelling of products applied only to
household appliances. The European Commission now intends to widen the application of the
Directive to energy-related products having a direct or indirect impact on energy
consumption.
•
Ecodesign for energy-using appliances
This Directive aims at protecting the environment by reducing the environmental impact of
energy-using products.
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There are still too many disparities between Member States in terms of the ecodesign of
energy-related products and this hinders the proper functioning of the internal market. This
Directive therefore endeavors to improve the harmonisation of national legislation in this field
whilst extending its scope to all energy-using products.
3.4 Renewable energy
Renewable sources of energy - wind power, solar power (thermal and photovoltaic), hydroelectric power, tidal power, geothermal energy and biomass - are an essential alternative to
fossil fuels. Using these sources helps not only to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from
energy generation and consumption but also to reduce the EU dependence on imports of fossil
fuels (in particular oil and gas).
In order to reach the ambitious target of a 20% share of energy from renewable sources in the
overall energy mix, the EU plans to focus efforts on the electricity, heating and cooling
sectors and on biofuels.
3.4.1
a.
Policy Orientations
Promotion of the use of energy from renewable sources
The Directive is part of a package of energy and climate change legislation which provides a
legislative framework for Community targets for greenhouse gas emission savings. It
encourages energy efficiency, energy consumption from renewable sources, the improvement
of energy supply and the economic stimulation of a dynamic sector in which Europe is setting
an example.
This Directive establishes a common framework for the use of energy from renewable sources
in order to limit greenhouse gas emissions and to promote cleaner transport. To this end,
national action plans are defined, as are procedures for the use of biofuels
b.
Renewable Energy Road Map
The Renewable Energy Road Map assesses the share of renewable energy in the energy mix
and the progress made in this area. It also includes the target of producing 20% of total EU
energy consumption from renewable energy sources by 2020, as well as measures for
promoting renewable energy sources in the electricity, biofuels and heating and cooling
sectors
c.
"Intelligent Energy for Europe" program (2003-2006)
The multiannual program for action in the field of energy, "Intelligent Energy for Europe",
implements the broad lines of action described in the Green Paper on the European Strategy
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for security of energy supply. This Green Paper aims at strengthening the security of energy
supply, combating climate change and boosting the competitiveness of EU businesses.
The Intelligent Energy for Europe" program, which is a specific sub-program of the
Competitiveness and Innovation Framework Program (2007-13), allows the 2003-06
Intelligent Energy program to continue.
This Decision establishes a new multiannual program for action in the field of energy. It
reflects the EU’s current objectives in this field, namely sustainable development and security
of supply, which reflects the EU’s current objectives in this field, namely sustainable
development and security of supply.
d.
The Global Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Fund
A proposal has been made to set up a Global Fund of risk capital with a budget of 100 million
to mobilise private investment in projects promoting energy efficiency and renewable energy
in developing countries and emerging economies.
The constant increase in demand for global energy has serious consequences, in particular in
terms of air quality, resources and access to energy. The need to ensure sustainable
development requires not only combating climate change but also eradicating energy poverty
and securing energy supply. It is therefore essential to harness investments in energy
efficiency and renewable energy.
e.
Renewable energy: the share of renewable energy in the EU in 2004
The Commission Green Paper entitled "Towards a European strategy for the security of
energy supply" highlighted the EU's high energy dependence. The EU now depends on
imports to meet 50% of its energy needs. This will increase to 70% in 2030 with an increasing
reliance on oil and gas. This situation presents many economic, political and environmental
risks.
In this context, and even if conventional fossil fuels and nuclear power remain key sources of
energy, the EU must play its part by promoting renewable energy.
3.4.2
•
Electricity
Support for electricity from renewable energy sources
The EU is creating a Community framework for promoting renewable energy sources for
electricity production. It is setting an objective for renewables of a 21% contribution to
electricity production and is laying down specific measures relating to evaluation of the origin
of the electricity, connection to the grid and administrative measures, among others.
•
Renewable energy: the promotion of electricity from renewable energy sources
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The Commission will closely monitor developments concerning European renewable energy
policy. It will draw up a report by the end of 2007 at the latest on the levels envisaged by the
national systems for promoting electricity from renewable energy sources. It will report on the
drive towards the completion of the internal electricity market and further analyse the options
for and the impact of possible harmonisation.
The Commission analyses the progress made in the area of renewable energy sources. It
reports on the growth in the generation and circulation of renewable energy on the internal
market. Public support plays an important role in cooperation between the Member States.
The Commission considers that harmonisation of the rules in the field of renewable energy is
not feasible at present. However, in the long term, this would be the path to take.
3.5 Security of supply, external dimension and enlargement
If it is to achieve its goal of secure, competitive and sustainable energy the EU must involve
and cooperate with developed and developing countries, be they producers, transit countries
or consumers. For the sake of efficiency and consistency, therefore, the EU and the Member
States must speak with one voice on international energy issues. At a time of vulnerability of
imports, potential energy crises and uncertainty surrounding future supplies, the EU must
make sure that it adopts measures and creates partnerships that guarantee the security of its
energy supply. Compliance with the Community energy acquis by the candidate countries is a
vital part of the process of their accession to the EU.
3.5.1. Security of supply
•
Security of energy supply in the EU and international cooperation
The EU imports over 60 % of its gas and over 80 % of its oil. Faced with this situation, it
needs adequate instruments to complete its internal energy market on the one hand and to
promote its interests in relation to third countries on the other.
•
Security of supply of electricity
With a view to insuring the functioning of the internal energy market, the largest competitive
market for electricity and gas in the world, the European EU establishes obligations to
safeguard security of electricity supply and undertake significant investment in electricity
networks. Blackouts in both the EU and US have highlighted the need to define clear
operational standards for transmission networks and for correct maintenance and development
of the network.
•
Green Paper on the security of energy supply
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The European Commission addresses the main issues relating to Europe's ever increasing
energy dependence: the challenges posed by climate change and the internal energy market,
measures relating to the supply of and demand for energy resources, the role of renewable
energy and nuclear energy, etc.
3.5.2. External dimension
•
The Energy Community Treaty
The Energy Community Treaty creates an internal market in electricity and natural gas
bringing together the 27 Member States of the EU and 7 European states and territories in the
Balkans
•
European Energy Charter
The Energy Charter Treaty establishes a framework for international cooperation between
European countries and other industrialised counties with the aim of developing the energy
potential of central and Eastern European countries and of ensuring security of energy supply
for the EU. The Protocol on energy efficiency and related environmental aspects aims to
promote energy efficiency policies that are compatible with sustainable development, to
encourage more efficient and sound use of energy and to promote cooperation in the field of
energy efficiency.
•
The Global Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Fund
A proposal has been made to set up a Global Fund of risk capital with a budget of 100 million
to mobilise private investment in projects promoting energy efficiency and renewable energy
in developing countries and emerging economies
The constant increase in demand for global energy has serious consequences, in particular in
terms of air quality, resources and access to energy. The need to ensure sustainable
development requires not only combating climate change but also eradicating energy poverty
and securing energy supply. It is therefore essential to harness investments in energy
efficiency and renewable energy.
The GEEREF initiative is an integral part of the approach put forward in the Green Paper " A
European Strategy for Sustainable, Competitive and Secure Energy ".
•
Global partnership for sustainable development
This communication highlights how the EU contributes to global sustainable development
and the action aimed at establishing a global deal for sustainable development
•
Environment and sustainable management of natural resources, including energy
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The Commission is proposing a program of measures for the environment and the sustainable
management of resources which could be financed by the Community and implemented as
part of the EU external policy.
This program is one of a series of seven thematic programs in the areas of: human rights and
democracy, investment in human resources, the environment and sustainable management of
natural resources (including energy), food safety, the participation of non-State actors in the
development process, migration and asylum, and cooperation with the industrialised
countries.
Along with Community, national and regional programs, these new programs will constitute
the backbone of the Commission's work on external cooperation after 2007.
3.6 Qualification framework
EU established recommendation of the European Parliament and of the Council of 23 April
2008 on the establishment of the European Qualifications Framework for lifelong learning
issued by Official Journal C 111 , 06/05/2008 P. 0001 – 0007
The European Qualifications Framework (EQF) acts as a translation device to make national
qualifications more readable across Europe, promoting workers' and learners' mobility
between countries and facilitating their lifelong learning.
The EQF aims to relate different countries' national qualifications systems to a common
European reference framework. Individuals and employers will be able to use the EQF to
better understand and compare the qualifications levels of different countries and different
education and training systems.
Agreed upon by the European institutions in 2008, the EQF is being put in practice across
Europe. It encourages countries to relate their national qualifications systems to the EQF so
that all new qualifications issued from 2012 carry a reference to an appropriate EQF level. An
EQF national coordination point has been designated for this purpose in each country.
The core of the EQF concerns eight reference levels describing what a learner knows,
understands and is able to do – 'learning outcomes'. Levels of national qualifications will be
placed at one of the central reference levels, ranging from basic (Level 1) to advanced (Level
8). This will enable a much easier comparison between national qualifications and should also
mean that people do not have to repeat their learning if they move to another country.
The EQF applies to all types of education, training and qualifications, from school education
to academic, professional and vocational. This approach shifts the focus from the traditional
system which emphasises 'learning inputs', such as the length of a learning experience, or type
of institution. It also encourages lifelong learning by promoting the validation of non-formal
and informal learning.
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This reflects a wider shift within which the EQF is acting as a catalyst for reforms: most
Member States are now developing their own National Qualifications Frameworks (NQFs)
based on learning outcomes. Several countries (IE, MT, UK, FR and BE-Flanders) already
have one in force.
At present, an enterprise in France may hesitate to recruit a job applicant from, say, Sweden,
because it does not understand the level of the qualifications presented by the Swedish
candidate. But once the EQF is fully implemented, a Swedish person's certificates will bear a
reference to an EQF reference level. The French authorities will have already decided where
their own national certificates in the field concerned lie, so the French enterprise would use
the EQF reference to get a better idea of how the Swedish qualification compares to French
qualifications.
An EQF advisory group brings together representatives from national authorities and other
stakeholders to help with the implementation of the framework. Its work is complemented by
the EU-wide Learning Outcomes Group which supports debate and peer learning on relevant
issues, focusing on the development of national qualifications frameworks and the validation
of non-formal and informal learnig.
The EQF initiative is closely related to the qualification framework for the European Higher
Education Area: the two frameworks are compatible and their implementation is coordinated.
Information and training gaps, especially in the heating and cooling sector, should be
removed in order to encourage the deployment of energy from renewable sources.
In so far as the access or pursuit of the profession of installer is a regulated profession, the
preconditions for the recognition of professional qualifications are laid down in Directive
2005/36/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 7 September 2005 on the
recognition of professional qualifications
This Directive therefore applies without prejudice to Directive 2005/36/EC
While Directive 2005/36/EC lays down requirements for the mutual recognition of
professional qualifications, including for architects, there is a further need to ensure that
architects and planners properly consider an optimal combination of renewable energy
sources and high-efficiency technologies in their plans and designs. Member States should
therefore provide clear guidance in this regard. This should be done without prejudice to the
provisions of Directive 2005/36/EC and in particular Articles 46 and 49 thereof.
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4. NATIONAL FRAMEWORK
4.1 ITALY
4.1.1 Technical Framework
The first law trying to regulate the use of renewables into building has been the law 10 of the
year 91entitled “Rules for the Implementation of the National Energy Plan in the field of
rational use of energy, energy saving and development of renewable sources of energy”, still
in force at the date even if partially modified.
The article 8 “Capital grants in support of renewable energy in buildings” sets out the
contribution up to 80 per cent for the installation of photovoltaic systems production of
electricity.
After that law there have been several standards, rules and legal documents relating to
photovoltaic systems that are listed below:
Rules for access to registers and for access to the feed-in tariffs. It is the document which sets
out the procedures and rules for the submission, evaluation and management of the
documentation that the GSE, the appointed subject to provide the incentives, requires in order
to give access to incentives for photovoltaics.
Ministerial Decree of 05.07.2012, better known as the 5th Feed-in scheme, valid from August
27, 2012, replaces the previous mechanism of benefits although some types of systems will
continue to benefit from the previous incentives for a few months.
AEEG Resolution 292-12. The resolution, having estimated to reach the roof of the
incentives set by the DM 05.05.2011, fixed the entry into force of the DM 07/05/2012 at
August 27, 2012.
Ministerial Decree of 05.05.2011 The 4th Feed-in scheme, valid from June 2011, encouraged
the development of photovoltaic systems in Italy.
Legislative Decree of March 3, 2011, n. 28 Implementation of Directive 2009/28/EC on
promotion of energy from renewable sources, laying modifications and subsequently
repealing Directives 2001/77/EC and 2003/30/EC.
Decree of 06.08.2010 The 3rd Feed-in scheme set incentives for the production of electricity
by photovoltaic sources for the period 2011-2013.
DM 19.02.2007 - 2nd Feed-in scheme in order to stimulate the production of electricity by
photovoltaic conversion of solar energy.
Ministerial Decree of 28.07.2005 1st Feed-in scheme: criteria for incentives for the production
of electricity by photovoltaic conversion of solar energy.
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Legislative Decree no. 387 of 29/12/2003, Implementation of Directive 2001/77/EC on the
promotion of electricity produced from renewable energy sources.
The Legislative Decree of March 3, 2011, sets out at the article 3 that as national target the
overall share of energy from renewable sources to the final energy consumption to be
achieved in 2020 will be equal to 17 per cent and that objective shall be pursued with a
temporal progression consistent with the guidelines of the National Action Plans for
Renewable Energy prepared according to Article 4 of Directive 2009/28/EC.
The DM July 5, 2012, published in Official Gazette no. 159 of 10 July 2012, the so-called
Fifth Energy Bill, redefines the way of incentives for the production of electricity from
photovoltaic cells.
The methods of incentives provided by the Fifth Feed-in scheme has been applied from 27
August 2012, after 45 calendar days from the date of publication of the resolution by the
Authority for Electricity and Gas (AEEG) where a cumulative annual approximate cost of
incentives amounting to 6 billion euro (AEEG July 12, 2012) was announced to be reached.
The Fifth Feed-in scheme shall cease to apply after 30 calendar days from the date a
cumulative indicative cost of the incentives of € 6.7 billion per year (inclusive of costs
committed by the plants listed in a good position in the registers) will be reached, which will
notified by the Authority - on the basis of information provided by GSE through its Counter
PV.
The tariffs of the Fifth Feed-in scheme are recognized on the following technology types:
•
PV systems, divided by installation types (art. 7 DM 5 July 2012);
•
innovative integrated photovoltaic (Article 8);
•
concentrating photovoltaic systems (Article 9);
The interventions allowed to access the tariffs are those of new plant, full renovation or size
increasing, as defined by the Decree.
Access to incentive mechanisms: The Fifth Feed-in scheme consists of two distinct
mechanisms of access to incentives, depending on the type of installation and the rated power
of the system:
Direct access
The following categories of facilities directly access tariffs ("direct access"), by sending the
application for admission to GSE incentives:
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•
PV power up to 50 kW installed on buildings with modules installed in
replacement of roofs on which it is made of eternit or the complete removal of
asbestos;
•
PV power not exceeding 12 kW, including installations made as a result of
renovation and resizing that increase the plant capacity not exceeding 12 kW;
•
Innovative integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) until reaching an approximate cost of
incentives cumulative of 50 million €;
•
concentrating photovoltaic (CPV) up to a cumulative indicative cost of the
incentives of 50 million €;
•
PV systems made by public administrations up to a cumulative indicative cost of
the incentives of 50 million €;
•
PV power greater than 12 kW but not exceeding 20 kW, including the facilities
made as a result of renovation and resizing that increase the plant capacity greater
than 12 kW but not exceeding 20 kW, which require a reduced rate of 20%
compared to the amount payable to the plants listed in the Register.
Access via Register
All plants that do not fall within the above categories, are eligible for incentives upon
registration in a good position in special registers information, held by the GSE ("Access via
Registry"), each characterized by its own cost limit.
The notice of the first register was published by the GSE within 20 days from the date of
publication of the Rules of application for entry in the register and for the recognition of
tariffs and provides for the submission of applications for registration not later than the next
30 calendar days and consecutive.
Registers for subsequent notices will be published by the GSE every six months from the date
of the first register and provide for the submission of applications for registration within the
next 60 days.
Tariffs
The Fifth Feed-in scheme remuneration unlike previous incentive mechanisms, with a
comprehensive rate, provides a tariff the feed-in tariff for the net energy delivered to the grid
by the plant and a premium tariff the net energy consumed on site.
In particular, subject to the decisions of the Authority in respect of dispatching the GSE with
the Fifth Energy Bill provides:
a) the share of net output to the grid:
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1. For plants up to 1 MW power an all-inclusive tariff is determined on the basis of
power and the type of system and identified, respectively, for photovoltaic systems,
for systems integrated with innovative features for photovoltaic in concentration;
2. For plants rated greater than 1 MW, the difference, if positive, between the allinclusive tariff and the zonal price schedule. In cases where the zonal price schedule is
negative, this difference can’t be higher than the all-inclusive tariff applicable to the
system as a function of power, the type and the period of reference. The energy
produced by the plants over 1 MW rated power remains available to the manufacturer.
b) The share of net production consumed on-site, is given a premium rate:
In general a plant will be rewarded by the sum of the all-inclusive tariff on the share of net
output to the grid and the premium rate on the share of net electricity consumed.
PV plants with a rated output not exceeding 20 kW, completely used to the power DC
appliances, connected to the mains but which do not place power into the grid, it will be
recognized only a premium rate net energy consumed on site.
As established by the Ministerial Decree of 5 July 2012, the values of the two rates (allinclusive and prize), will gradually decreasing for the six months of application of the Fifth
Feed-in scheme, from August 27, 2012.
The fee is payable at the date of entry into operation of the plant and, as of that date, is valid
for a period of 20 years.
The incentive rate remains constant at current prices for the whole period of the incentive,
considered net of any stops arranged for issues related to network security or disasters,
recognized as such by the competent authorities.
Increases in rates
The all-inclusive rates and premium rates are increased energy consumed on-site, limited to
photovoltaic systems and integrated systems with innovative features, the following awards
between them combined, quantified in € / MWh (listed in Article 5, paragraph 2 letter a) of
the Decree):
1. For plants with components made within a country that is a member of the EU or the
European Economic Area (Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway)
2. For the systems made on buildings with modules installed in replacement of roofing on
which is made the complete removal of asbestos or eternit
The procedures for applying for and recognition of the premiums are specified in the Rules
Application for registration to the Registrar and access to feed-in tariffs
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Preliminary costs and expenses.
The responsible parties who require the tariffs provided by the DM 05/07/12 are required to
pay a contribution to the ESO for the costs of investigation (as required by Article 10 of the
Decree) of 3 € per kW of rated power installation for systems up to 20 kW and € 2 for every
kW of power exceeding 20 kW.
The contribution to the cost of inquiries is due upon the request of tariffs for facilities that
have direct access to the incentive mechanisms or when applying for registration in the
Register for facilities that do not fall among those defined by art. 3, paragraph 1 of the
Ministerial Decree of 5 July 2012.
Results of the FiT scheme updated at December 2015.
In-service plants with direct access
Building-integrated
PV
plants
with
innovative
features
Number of plants: 5,634
Capacity (kW): 85,726
Yearly cost (€): 22,034,508
Concentrating PV plants
Number of plants: 6
Capacity (kW): 2,846
Yearly cost (€): 490,786
Installed by public administrations
Number of plants: 38
Capacity (kW): 2,631
Yearly cost (€): 232,602
With replacement of Eternit/Asbestos
Number of plants: 2,442
Capacity (kW): 49,811
Yearly cost (€): 8,515,691
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Up to 12 kW
Number of plants: 63,763
Capacity (kW): 299,431
Yearly cost (€): 47,849,355
From 12 and 20 kW with 20% reduction
Number of plants: 797
Capacity (kW): 14,770
Yearly cost (€): 1,595,245
Plants enrolled into the registry
In-Service
plants
Number of plants: 2,393
Capacity
(kW):
519,750
Yearly cost (€): 46,284,501
Plants not yet in service and falling below the applicable cost limit
Number of plants: 4,767
Capacity (kW): 1,119,936
Yearly cost (€): 89,874,408
4.1.1 Total feed-in scheme
Total operating plants
Number of plants: 526,463
Capacity (kW): 17,080,255
Yearly cost (€): 6,605,824,828
Total plant in register*
Number of plants: 4,779
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Capacity (kW): 1,136,326
Yearly cost (€): 94.183.695
The grid
The electricity does not exist in nature and must therefore be produced from primary sources.
This transformation takes place in power plants. The transmission of electricity at high
voltage (380 kV - 220 kV - 150 kV) is performed by transport network and transmission grid
at high and extra high voltage (132 kV - 400 kV for about 63,000 km). The electricity
distribution network in medium voltage (10kV - 20kV), connects to the network transmission
by means of the primary substations to power utilities in MT and substations which heads the
distribution networks in low voltage (230 V - 400 V) for the end users. Transport networks
and transmission are managed by a national operator called TSO (Transmission System
Operator), the function of which in Italy is carried out by TERNA S.p.A. - Rete Elettrica
Nazionale (National Electrical Network), reserved by law for the State and entrusted by the
Ministry for Economic Development to the company. The conditions of service are contained
in the Transmission and Dispatch Code, adopted by the assignee as a legislative obligation
and approved by the Ministry and the AEEG. The Company Terna manages security in the
national transmission grid and electricity flows necessary to Italy through the dispatch,
balancing, that is, the supply and demand of energy 365 days a year, 24 hours a day for a grid
of more than 63,000 km of lines. The last step that completes the chain of the national
electricity system is the distribution, ie the delivery of electricity in medium and low voltage
users. The network national distribution is managed by the concession zone DSO
(Distribution System Operator). The management of medium and low voltage networks and
electricity distribution is also entrusted by the Ministry for Economic Development to
distribution companies, identified as single assignees at municipal level. In Italy Enel
Distribution is the main DSO with over 30 million customers connected to the network
distribution.
Unlike the transmission network, the distribution networks are operated Italian
mainly with radial or ring (the latter released for the MT) and designed
for unidirectional power flow, which explains why the DSO does not handle the exercise of
generators of small size connected to the distribution network, considering them in all
respects passive loads that do not participate in any way to the regulation services network.
The main reference legislation was issued by the Ministry for Economic Development, whilst
the technical and economic regulations for this activity are the responsibility of the AEEG.
The Italian Electrotechnical Committee (CEI) oversees all the technical standards.
Although the technical rules try to facilitate the connection of renewable energy plants to the
electricity network, the strong growth in installed capacity and connection needs a time the
amount of time necessary for developing networks (longer than the time required for
developing individual plants) has brought about delays and bottlenecks. This is most
noticeable where there are high concentrations of non-programmable plants and causes
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limitations on the full use of the installed capacity. This problem has faced with regard to the
transmission network by speeding up the authorisation procedures for the construction of
electrical power lines and collection stations for electricity from renewable sources. For
renewable power plants, particularly non-programmable plants, the current legislation also
guarantees remuneration for missed renewable production in the event of problems caused by
the network’s insufficient capacity to accept and dispatch energy whilst ensuring the system’s
safety.
Moreover the possibility of making the subject designed to authorise renewable energy plants
also responsible for authorising, with specific precautions in place is being considered.
At the same time an incentive or premium/penalty mechanism will be developed, like that
introduced for the national transmission network through AEEG Decision No ARG/elt 87/10.
This aim of this mechanism is to speed up operations to adapt and expand the networks,
whilst monitoring the timeliness of operators’ actions in order to identify any problems in
advance and provide the necessary solutions.
With regard to the modernisation of the distribution networks in line with smart grid
specifications, pilot projects have been set up using resources from the interregional
operational plan for renewable energy and energy saving.
Other measures in place include the simplification of administrative procedures for network
adaptation works, improvement of forecast models for production from nonprogrammable
renewable sources and the promotion of systems whose energy net metering can be predicted
(currently limited to photovoltaic power). The intention is therefore to more systematically
encourage the modernisation of distribution networks in line with smart grid concepts, further
improve the forecast models for production from non-programmable renewable sources and
promote the integrated management of associated aspects including accumulation and
generation systems and loads.
Connection to the electricity network
Legislative Decree No 79/1999, transposing European Directive 96/92/EC, establishes the
obligation for distribution companies to connect all parties which request it to their own
networks, without compromising the continuity of service. For renewable energy plants,
Legislative Decree No 387/2003, transposing European Directive 2001/77/EC, deals with
issues relating to the connection of plants to the electricity network.
For high-efficiency cogeneration plants, the legislative reference for the connection service is
Legislative Decree No 20/2007. The regulation in force (AEEG Decision No ARG/elt 99/08 Compendium of Rules for Active Connections (TICA)) defines the procedural methods and
technical / financial conditions for connection to the electricity networks, with the obligation
to connect third-party production plants. With regard to low and medium voltage networks,
the TICA specifies connection charges based on the distance from the connection point to the
network, the capacity of the connection and the type of connection. These charges only apply
to plants using renewable energy sources (RES) and high-efficiency cogeneration (HEC).
Conventional plants refer to the conditions published by each operator and must pay the TICA
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charges or the operator’s charges, whichever is higher. For connections to high and very high
voltage networks, the TICA does not set specific charges but requires the application of a
reduction in the payments due for RES and HEC plants. The contractual terms and conditions
(CTCs) for the provision of this service are defined and published by each individual network
operator. The CTCs define the conventional technical solutions adopted by the network
operator to create the connection, the arrangements and response times, payments terms for
the connection charges, and criteria for establishing the charges in order to cover the costs
incurred by the network operator in managing the authorisation procedure. For TERNA, the
CTCs are given in the Transmission and Dispatch Code.
The regulation also covers the resolution of disputes between producers and network
operators, specifically relating to the connection of RES plants.
Technical rules for the connection service
The reference technical rules for connection differ according to whether the connection is to a
low voltage network (up to 1 kV) or to a higher voltage network.
For network voltages above 1 kV, AEEG Decision No ARG/elt 33/08 “Technical conditions
for connection to electricity distribution networks with a nominal voltage above 1 kV: Single
technical rule for medium / high / very high voltage connections” recognises standard CEI 016 as the standard to which all network operators must refer when defining the connection
project. The anticipated maximum values for connection capacity, depending on the network
voltage, are the following:
The local network operator will manage the connection procedure for the producer up to a
connection capacity of 10 MVA. For larger capacities the producer must apply to the national
network operator, TERNA.
For connection to the low voltage distribution network, there is no AEEG decision which
gives a single reference standard like for the medium and high voltage networks.
In practice, the connection standard generally adopted is Enel Distribuzione’s standard, since
the company is the main distributor in the Italian market. These standards were developed
once upon the time when Enel was the national public body for electricity and are codified in
Enel Specification DK 5940: “Criteria for connecting production plants to the Enel
Distribuzione low voltage network”. Each network operator must send AEEG the technical
conditions for low voltage connections, and must publish these on its own website.
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AEEG Decision No ARG/elt 333/07 “Compendium of quality regulations for distribution,
measurement and sale of electricity for the regulation period 2008-2011” establishes rules for
the quality of the distribution service.
A summary table is given below:
Charge
Connection to the low / medium voltage network
For plants fed by renewable energy sources (RES) or high-efficiency cogeneration (HEC), the
connection charge is calculated in the usual way, as described in Article 10 of the TICA. The
connection charge is calculated on the basis of the connection capacity, type of connection
(ground-based or aerial), distance between the connection point and the nearest transformer
substation, and the accessibility of the site. The network operator is obliged to send all costs
for general connection solutions to the AEEG and to publish them, in accordance with
transparency and non-discrimination criteria.
Connection to the high / very high voltage network
Operators of high and very high voltage networks are obliged to send their contractual terms
and conditions (CTCs) for providing the connection service in accordance with the TICA to
the AEEG and to publish them. The CTCs define the payment terms and amount payable to
cover the costs incurred by the network operator in managing the authorisation procedure.
The CTCs also specify the technical solutions usually adopted by the network operator and
the related costs referred to when establishing the estimate for each general technical solution.
In the majority of cases, the network operator referred to is TERNA S.p.A. (for capacities
greater than 10 MW and for high and very high voltage connections). Once the estimate,
which contains the general minimum technical solution, has been accepted, and when the
necessary authorisations are obtained, the applicant pays the network operator a fee to cover
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the administrative costs and costs relating to the technical analysis required in order to
compile the specific minimum technical solution.
For high and very high voltage connections, deadlines for preparing the connection estimate
and the period for which the estimate is valid are defined in the CTCs for the connection
service. The estimate must indicate a general minimum technical solution for the connection
to the plant and the connection charge, giving a breakdown of individual costs. The applicant
can accept the estimate or, alternatively, ask for another estimate based on a different general
minimum technical solution.
The deadline for completing the connection is defined in the CTCs, which can be consulted
on the network operators’ websites, in reference to network connection installations
completed by the network operator. An automatic compensation system is foreseen for every
working day of delay in the event that the network operator fails to comply with the set
deadlines for completing the connection, except where this is due to force majeure or caused
by the applicant or a third party.
Distribution Charge
No distribution charge applies to electricity fed into the network.
Transmission Network Charge
For plants connected to medium voltage (MV) or low voltage (LV) networks, the distributor
companies pay the producers a transmission network charge, which applies to the electricity
fed into the network. The transmission network charge usually takes into account the lower
transport costs associated with feeding electricity directly into the MV and LV networks,
compared to those associated with electricity fed in the high voltage (HV) networks. In fact,
in order to reach the end customers this electricity must also pay for the transmission costs,
quantified by the transmission network charge. For 2009, this charge was equal to 0.344 euro
cents/kWh for each kWh fed in, increased by a percentage factor which takes into account
electricity losses in the distribution network, equal to 4.2% for the medium voltage network
and 9.9% for the low voltage network.
From fire safety point of view the installation of photovoltaic systems in itself is not among
the activities subject to fire prevention inspections but it may pose a risk to the safety of
emergency rescue to extinguish a fire or in case of other type of accident, increasing the level
of fire risk if a service activity subject to controls.
The Department of Fire published in February 2012 a guide to the installation of photovoltaic
systems, with DC voltage not exceeding 1500 V, in activities subject to fire prevention
inspections.
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4.1.2 Economical Framework
The Italian National Action Plan contains and describes all the measures (economic, not
economic
support,
international
cooperation)
needed
to
achieve
the
objectives.
There are many support mechanisms already in place to make up for the insufficient levels
remuneration now insured by market mechanisms for investments in renewable energy and
energy efficiency.
In order to achieve their national targets, Italy intends
streamline support mechanisms existing in an integrated viewpoint of:
to
strengthen
and
•
being effective to concentrate efforts along directions of maximum contribution to the
objectives;
•
being effective to introduce flexibility in supporting incentives limiting their
contributions to the strictly necessary to meet the risk of the market;
•
providing economic sustainability for the final consumer, who is the person who
supports much part of the burden of incentives;
•
providing weights of all the measures to be promoted in the three areas in which to
act: heat, transport and electricity.
In this context, taking into account the overall framework of the objectives to be achieved, is
necessary and appropriate, with a view to long-term development: - Proceed with the
rationalization of existing measures for the articles system the promotion of renewable energy
for electricity generation in order to achieve, given the current growth trend, increasing
production by about 5.0 Mtoe in 2008 to about 9.1 Mtoe in 2020;
Different systems of support for production of electricity from renewable sources in the
Italian system have already been in place since many years, such as:
a) Green certificates; they are tradable bills - introduced with the liberalization of the
electricity sector- on the market through bilateral contracts and centralized trading on special
platforms, recognized producers from renewable sources as a function of electricity produced
and the type of the project intervention performed (New plants, reactivations, upgrades,
renovations and hybrid systems). Legislative Decree no. 79/1999 introduced the obligation for
manufacturers and importers of electricity from conventional sources of feed in a minimum
quantity of electricity from renewable sources that can be fulfilled either by entering network
in the amount of electricity from renewable sources or by buying certificates required green
proving the production of the equivalent amount. In such a way conditions for the emergence
of a market were created where demand is given by the subjects obligation and the offer is
made by the producers of electricity from plants with law green certificates; the beginning of
this system has also introduced competition concerning the different renewable sources with
an emphasis on the principle of efficiency just mentioned rather than on effectiveness. With
the 2008 Budget, the green certificates system was revised with the introduction of multipliers
differentiated for the various renewable sources and with the increase in the period incentive
expected, increasing it from 12 to 15 years, giving priority to some extent the principle of
effectiveness in achieving its objectives.
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b) The all inclusive rate is a support system based on the delivery of a fixed rate accorded to
plants from renewable sources as a function of electricity fed into the grid (feed in tariff). This
rate is applicable only to systems power less than 1 MW (200 kW for wind power) and
includes both the incentive and the remuneration for the energy fed into the grid. Even the allinclusive tariff is differentiated by technology and is valid for a period of 15 years.
This system is well suited for small production from renewable sources spread across territory
to protect the small producers, who otherwise would not be able to take benefit from more
complex mechanisms just as green certificates or for the production technology less mature.
c) The energy bill is a support system that ensures a constant compensation electricity
produced by solar photovoltaic and thermodynamic for a defined period of time (20 years for
photovoltaic plants, 25 years for solar thermodynamic) through a fee for all the energy
produced by plants (feed in premium). The fee is in addition to the proceeds from the sale or
exploitation, through the exchange on site or self-consumption, energy production and varies
function of the size and degree of architectural integration of the plant. Such regime rewards
renewable production regardless of the use that is made of electricity produced, this case goes
well especially with the profile promiscuous producer / consumer of electricity from
renewable sources. Subject to certain constraints about the inclusion of further measures to
encourage the renewable sources for the production of electricity from renewable sources
have been included within the Operational Program Interregional (NIOP) Energy 2007/2013
to apply the EU Structural Funds and the Revolving Fund for Kyoto.
The current incentive systems have been shown to be capable of supporting a continued
growth, ensuring, in spite of frequent changes of the regulatory sufficient predictability in
terms of return on investment and facilitating the eligibility of the works.
The incentives previously described are therefore an instrument statements of the national
energy system and with the necessary adjustments for the next period will be used as an
element of continuity important for meet the new EU targets.
On the other hand, the scenarios of strong growth and in particular the specific objectives
attributable to the electricity sector require a long-term and a capacity, as well as to rationalize
the current incentives on the basis of cost of technologies, including promoting benefits on a
more productive and overall employment, in a logic of progressive reduction of costs and
increased efficiency compared to the cost of conventional production.
For some technologies or market segments is also possible to achieve in few years, by 2020 or
even before, the so-called, grid parity, a factor that obviously requires a review of the levels
and incentive systems.
4.1.3 Authorization Framework
Legislative Decree No 112/1998 made the regions responsible for the administrative duties
relating to energy - including renewable sources, electricity, oil and gas – which were not
reserved for the State or assigned to local authorities. Constitutional Law No 3/2001 altered
the division of responsibilities between the State and the regions. As a result, within the
renewable energy sector, the State has legislative power whilst the regions have
administrative power. Under the new system, matters relating to “production, transportation
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and national distribution of energy” are assigned to the concurrent legislation of the State and
the regions. It therefore falls to the State to establish, through its own laws, the fundamental
principles for each subject, and to the regions to exercise their legislative power within the
limits of the fundamental principles expressly set out by the State.
There is a great deal of overlap and interaction between spatial planning and planning in this
sector (for energy use, waste, land reclamation, transport, water, etc.), and this can be
particularly complex. Law No 10/1991 “Regulations for the implementation of the National
Energy Plan in matters of rational energy use, energy saving and development of renewable
energy sources” introduced the Regional Energy Plan to the planning context. Using this
measure, regions are planning their interventions in the energy field, governing the actions of
local authorities and harmonising the decisions taken at the various levels of spatial planning.
The Energy Plan contains the starting points, short-, medium- and long-term strategic
objectives, practical instructions, tools available, legislative and regulatory reference
frameworks, funding opportunities, constraints, obligations, and rights of economic operators
in the sector, of large-scale consumers and of normal users. In short the Energy Plan
represents the main reference point for public and private entities intending to take energyrelated initiatives within the territory covered by the Plan. The regional energy plans,
although based on free entrepreneurial initiative, also aim to give some direction to operations
in the sector. Moreover, as well as having environmental implications, energy choices must
also be combined with spatial management decisions. It is not by chance that many of the
plans are entitled “Regional Energy and Environment Plan”.
The regulatory references for authorisation procedures vary depending on whether the
operation relates to electricity production, heating and cooling, biofuels or networks. The
table above gives an overview of the main national regulations in force.
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According to the specific type of works to be carried out some of the authorisation procedures
indicated in the table above could also foresee the completion of the environmental impact
assessment procedure.
More specifically, these are the types of operation covered by Legislative Decree No
152/2006: Projects subject to environmental impact assessment for which the State is
responsible:
•
power plants and other combustion plants with a heating capacity of at least
300 MW;
Projects subject to environmental impact assessment for which the region is responsible:
•
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power plants for the production of electricity, steam and hot water with total
heat capacity greater than 150 MW;
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Projects subject to applicability screening for which the region is responsible:
•
power plants for the production of electricity, steam and hot water with total
heat capacity greater than 50 MW;
For the implementation of plans and schemes which may have a significant environmental
impact (including, for example, the Electricity Network Development Plan), Legislative
Decree No 152/2006 also provides for screening for the applicability of the Strategic
Environmental Assessment (SEA) defined under Directive 2001/42/EC. The authorisation
procedure for the production of electricity from renewable energy sources currently in
force was introduced by Legislative Decree No 387/2003, implementing Directive
2001/77/EC. Article 12 of this regulation (included in Annex 4.2.1.B) provides that the
construction and operation of electricity production plants powered by renewable sources, and
modification, expansion, total or partial reconstruction, and reactivation operations and
connected works, as well as those connected to infrastructure essential for the construction
and operation of the same plants are subject to a single authorisation. This document
concludes a procedure lasting a maximum of 180 days. The main aim of introducing this
procedure was the rationalisation and simplification of the authorisation procedure for
production plants using renewable sources. In fact, the single authorisation is issued in
accordance with the current regulations for the protection of the environment, landscape and
historical / artistic heritage within a single procedure in which all the authorities concerned
participate. Where necessary, the plant and connected infrastructure must comply with
environmental impact assessment regulations.
The single authorisation grants the right to construct and operate the plant in accordance with
the approved plans and, where necessary, with the declaration of public interest, necessity and
urgency. The single authorisation is in itself a change to the urban planning instrument. The
requirements of countryside protection plans remain mandatory. The authorisation cites any
conditions applicable to the construction and operation of the plant; it also defines the
procedures to be followed for the rehabilitation of the site once the plant is decommissioned
(or, for hydroelectric plants, procedures for fulfilling the obligation to take environmental
recovery and reintegration measures). The single authorisation sets deadlines for the start and
end of works, and once these have passed the authorisation ceases to be effective, unless it is
extended. The tool used to carry out this single procedure and bring together all the authorities
concerned to give their opinions is the Services Conference, described in point (f) below.
Article 12 of Legislative Decree No 387/2003 provides for a simplified procedure; this
simplified procedure applies to plants with a generation capacity below the thresholds
indicated in table A included in an annex to Legislative Decree No 387/2003 and reproduced
below:
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For plants which do not exceed the thresholds indicated above, the commencement notice
requirement applies in accordance with Presidential Decree No 380/2001. A decree from the
Ministry for Economic Development, in consultation with the Ministry for the Environment,
Land and Sea and in agreement with the Unified Conference, could define higher generation
capacity thresholds and additional installation site characteristics to which the same
commencement notice requirement would apply. The Community Law of 2009 made the
Italian Government responsible for extending the use of commencement notices to renewable
energy plants with a capacity below 1 MW. Article 11 of Legislative Decree No 115/2008
introduced further simplification and rationalisation measures for photovoltaic systems fixed
to or integrated into building roofs on the same slope and with the same orientation as the
pitch and whose components do not alter the outlook of the buildings themselves.
For plants installed in buildings or on sites protected by town-planning constraints or heritage
or countryside protection measures, the necessary local permits must be attached to the
commencement notice, for example the countryside protection or National Park Authority
clearance. There are two types of architectural restriction which apply to refurbishment work,
both provided by the Cultural Heritage Code (Decree-Law No 42 of 22 January 2004). The
first is the countryside protection measure, which is imposed by local authorities through the
Regulatory Plans or at times through specific Countryside Plans. The other constraint is the
cultural heritage protection measure, which protects elements of artistic, historical,
archeological or ethnological value. This constraint applies to individual “objects”, which
include buildings, and is imposed by the state, through the Services of the Ministry for
Cultural Heritage. The installation of such systems is in fact considered an ordinary
maintenance operation and is therefore not subject to the commencement notice requirement.
Decree-Law No 40 of 25 March 2010 recently amended Article 6 of Presidential Decree No
380/2001 by establishing that all photovoltaic panels serving buildings outside category A
areas (historic centres) can be installed without any authorisation being required. Lastly,
Article 27(20) of Law No 99/2009 established that the installation and operation of microcogeneration systems (no larger than 50 kW) are subject only to notification, to be given to
the competent authority under Presidential Decree No 380/2001. In accordance with
Legislative Decree No 56/2010, the installation and operation of units of up to 1 MW or 3
MWt are subject to the commencement notice requirement.
To summarise several authorities are involved in giving authorisation: the Ministry for
Economic Development and the Ministry for the Environment, Land and Sea for the
construction and operation of infrastructure which falls within the national transmission
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network development plan; the regions for network infrastructure which does not fall within
the national transmission network development plan; the regions and provinces, when
appointed by the regions, for renewable energy plants; the municipalities for works which can
be carried out by giving notification or a commencement notice. With the exception of plants
which can be created by giving simple notification, the authorities responsible for the
protection of specific interests are also involved. To ensure coordination between the
administrative bodies made responsible for protecting various matters of public interest within
a single administrative procedure, the authority responsible for the procedure convenes a
Services Conference in order to facilitate horizontal and vertical coordination between the
various administrations and entities involved.
4.1.4 Qualification Framework
The Guarantee of Origin (GO) is a voluntary certificate giving evidence of electricity
generation from renewables and issued on demand to producers. In Italy, the GO was
introduced by Legislative Decree 387/03, implementing Directive 2001/77/EC on promotion
of electricity produced from renewable energy sources in the internal electricity market. With
the GO, producers may demonstrate the origin of the electricity that they sell.
Legislative Decree 28/11, transposing Directive 2009/28/EC, repealed Directive 2001/77/EC
and introduced some new provisions concerning the GO. The new GO (art. 34, Legislative
Decree 28/11) has the sole purpose of enabling electricity suppliers to disclose the share of
renewable energy in their fuel mix to final customers. The new GO will be issued, transferred
and cancelled electronically. An implementing decree will update the procedures regarding
the issuing and utilisation of the new GO.
The national regulations in force in this regard are principally found within the more general
context of Ministerial Decree No 37 of 22/01/2008, which replaced Law No 46/1990 (with
the exception of Articles 8, 14 and 16).
The decree applies (Article 1) to systems serving buildings, regardless of their intended use,
and in particular: a) systems for electricity production, transformation, transport, distribution
and use and c) systems for heating, cooling, air-conditioning and refrigeration of any type or
nature and identifies (Article 3) the qualified companies and (Article 4) technical and
professional requirements necessary for carrying out activities to install such systems. At the
end of the works, the designer or installer must issue a declaration for the system installed and
for each component used. This declaration certifies compliance with the legislation in force
and with the Italian UNI and CEI technical standards and those of other standardisation
bodies of EU Member States. The installation company draws up the document in relation to
the works completed.
Legislative Decree of March 3, 2011, n. 28 Implementation of Directive 2009/28/EC on
promotion of energy from renewable sources, sets out at the art. 15 about installers
qualification that to be qualified for activities of installation and maintenance of solar
photovoltaic among the others it must possess the technical and professional requirements of
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which, alternatively, to letters a), b) or c) of paragraph 1 of Article 4 of Decree the Minister of
Economic Development 22 January 2008, n. 37, that means:
a) technical bachelor's degree in specified area
b) certificate of qualification awarded at the end of secondary school
with specialization relative to the field of activities' followed by a period of training, at
least two continuous years, employed directly by a company of the sector.
c) the license or certificate obtained under the law existing vocational training, after a
period of inclusion of at least four consecutive years, under the direct employed by a
company in the industry. The period of integration for activities 'referred to in Article
1, paragraph 2, letter d) and' two years;
2. From 1 August 2013 the technical and professional requirements referred to in Article 4,
paragraph 1, letter c) of the Regulation of the decree of the Minister for Development
Economic January 22, 2008, n. 37 are respected when:
a) A professional qualification is issued in accordance with the rules laid down in
paragraphs 3 and 4 and criteria set out in Annex 4 and certifies the application of
qualified installers;
b) the previous period of training is carried out according to the procedures identified
in Annex 4.
3. By 31 December 2012, the Regions and Provinces autonomous in accordance with Annex
4, activate a program training for installers to renewable sources shall approve providers
training, notifying the Ministry Economic Development, the Ministry of Environment and the
Environment, Land and Sea.
4. In order to promote consistency with the criteria set out in Annex 4 and the uniformity at
national level, or when the regions and the autonomous provinces not provision within
December 31, 2012, ENEA provides available training programs for the release of the
training. Regions and Autonomous Provinces may also enter into agreements with ENEA and
with the school of specialization in environmental disciplines, referred to in Article 7,
paragraph 4, of the Law of 11 February 1992, no. 157, and subsequent amendments for the
support in carrying out the activities.
5. Any new or increased charges for finance public arising from the training referred to in
Sections 3 and 4 are to be borne by participants the same activities.
Certification of installers
Qualification systems are based on the following criteria: 1. The training program or
recognition of the training provider meets the following features:
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a) training for the qualification must be carried out according to a procedure transparent and
clearly defined;
b) is ensured continuity and regional coverage of the training program offered by the supplier;
c) the training provider shall have adequate technical, in particular of laboratory equipment or
similar equipment, to impart practical training;
d) in addition to the basic training, the training provider shall also offer courses shorter
refresher on specific topics, including new technologies, to enable long learning in
installations;
e) The training provider may be the manufacturer of the equipment or system, institutes or
associations;
f) the qualification of installers has a limited duration and renewal is subject to taking a
refresher course in the form of seminar or event.
2. Training for the issue of qualification of installers includes both theoretical and practical
parts. On completion of training, installers must have the skills required to install equipment
and systems that meet the needs of customers terms of performance and reliability, to be able
to provide a quality service and to comply all applicable codes and standards, including
standards relating to trade and energy eco-labels.
3. The training concludes with an examination leading to a certificate which is issued. The
examination shall include a practical assessment of successfully installing boilers or stoves
biomass, heat pumps, shallow geothermal systems or solar photovoltaic or solar heat.
4. The period of training should have the following characteristics: for installers of solar
photovoltaic or solar thermal installer: training as a plumber or electrician and have plumbing,
electrical and roofing, including welding, gluing pipe joints, sealing fittings, testing for leaks,
ability to connect wiring, familiar with basic materials to cover roofs, as well as the methods
of isolation and waterproofing; or iv) a vocational training program that allows installers to
acquire adequate skills corresponding to three years of training in the skills that letters a), b)
or c) including both classroom training that the practice at job.
5. The theoretical part of the training of installers of solar photovoltaic systems and solar
temperature should give an overview of the market situation of solar products, and
comparisons cost / profitability and cover ecological aspects, components, characteristics
dimensioning of solar systems, the selection of accurate systems and dimensioning of
components, determination of the heat demand, fire prevention, the related subsidies, as well
as the design, installation and maintenance of plant solar photovoltaic and solar thermal
systems. The training should also provide a good knowledge of any European standards for
technology, and certification such as "Solar Keymark", as well as relevant national and
European legislation. Installers should demonstrate the following key competences:
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i) ability to work safely using the required tools and equipment and applying codes and safety
standards, and to identify the risks associated with plumbing, electrical and other hazards
associated with solar installations; ii) ability to identify systems and their components specific
to active and passive systems, including mechanical design, and determine the position of the
components and determine the schema and system configuration;
iii) ability to determine the area, orientation and tilt for the installation of solar photovoltaic
and solar hot water, taking into account of shading, solar access, structural integrity, as a
function of the adequacy of building or the climate and identify different installation methods
suitable for roof types and components BOS (balance of system) required for installation;
iv) for solar PV systems in particular, the ability to adapt the electrical design, including
wherein the determination of the currents, the choice of appropriate conductor types and flows
appropriate for each electrical circuit, the determination of the size, the flow and the position
suitable for all associated equipment and subsystems, and choose a point appropriate
interconnection.
Training and qualification schemes have been set up at European level for skills relating to
the renewable energy sector (e.g. Windskill, SolTec), and Italian organisations have become
partners in these schemes.
With specific reference to small-scale installers of biomass boilers or stoves, solar
photovoltaic and solar thermal systems, shallow geothermal systems and heat pumps, the
ENEA is a partner in the European Qualicert project, promoted by all the European
associations of renewable system manufacturers. This project intends to define installer
profiles in order to establish a certification system which is compliant with the provisions of
Article 14(3) of European Directive 2008/28/EC and its Annex 4.
In collaboration with the regions and with the involvement of trade associations, the ENEA
can fulfil the role of the body appointed to define general programmes for installer training, in
which said body trains the entities which will then be responsible for providing training,
whilst the training itself should be carried out under the responsibility of the regions. With
regard to certification in particular, this should be carried out by entities accredited by
ACCREDIA in accordance with the current European legislation on certification.
The certification systems to be established will be voluntary. The certification is a measure
closely related and complementary to the determination of compulsory technical
specifications. Italy joined the European project, which is a partner ENEA promoted by all
European associations of producers of renewable energy plants called Qualicert. The project
aims to define the outlines of the figures installers in order to establish a system certification,
which should be carried out by individuals as CEPAS, body certification of skills and
training, not financial gain and operating according to the requirements of ISO / IEC 17024
"General requirements for Summary of the National Action Plan for Renewable Energy 27th
Bodies operating in the certification of personnel." An important role for the certification of
installers will be also played by trade associations, through their membership to the
realization of various types of interventions envisaged, in particular in relation to the
achievement of small plants both in the electrical field that in the thermal sector.
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Some voluntary certification systems or equivalent qualification systems for designers,
installers or inspectors of renewable energy systems (e.g. photovoltaic systems) are in place.
The accredited bodies operate on the basis of a plan which defines in advance: general rules
for issuing and maintaining the certification, requirements for qualification and a professional
code of ethics. Information is publicly available, for example on the websites of the accredited
bodies. The regions will be involved in training activity aimed at the certification and
qualification of skills in this sector.
4.2 SPAIN
4.2.1 Technical framework
Photovoltaic systems, and more specifically BIPV systems, are subjected to comply with
certain technical characteristics pointed out in the Spanish legislation.
As electrical components, BIPV modules are subject to the applicable electrotechnical
requirements as stated in the Low Voltage Directive 2006/95/EC.
Being a part of the envelope, important characteristics for BIPV systems are established in the
Spanish Technical Building Code (TBC). The TBC also imposes the minimum contribution
of PV energy sources of some buildings depending on its characteristics and nature.
The RD 1699/2011, in which the grid connection of low power installations is regulated,
follows the guidelines set by Directive 2004/8/CE promoting small installations in order to
enhance the energy efficiency and security of supply, as well as Directive 2009/28/CE, that
encourages the use of renewable energy sources. This RD repealed RD 1663/2000, for the
connection of photovoltaic systems to the Low Voltage grid. This Royal Decree sets the basis
that PV installations must fulfil in order to carry out the grid connection.
The Spanish Low Voltage Electrotechnical Regulation, (Reglamento Electrotécnico para Baja
Tensión), is a mandatory regulation prescribing the conditions of assembly, operation and
maintenance of low voltage installations. It was approved by Royal Decree RD 842/2002.
According to this regulation, in Spain low voltage is considered that voltage is less than or
equal to 1000 VAC or 1500 VDC.
The new rules retain the old structure and consists of two parts. The first 29 items are serving
the legal and administrative issues of installations. The second part focuses on the technical
aspects of the installations listed in 51 Technical Instructions.
Spanish Technical Building Code
The Spanish Technical Building Code (TBC) is the legal framework that establishes the
demands that buildings have to fulfil in terms of basic requirements for safety and habitability
set out in the Building Organisation Act (BOA). It is the transposition of EPDB Directive in
Spain.
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The TBC contains a Basic Document, HE, devoted to energy saving. The purpose of
this Basic Document is to establish the rules and procedures that allow basic energy saving
requirements to be met. One of the sections is HE 5. Minimum Photovoltaic Power
Contribution. In this document, the TBC establishes that it is compulsory to incorporate
PV procedures for solar energy use and transformation into the system for the following
building usagesand given that they exceed a built surface (new or refurbished) of 5000 sq
meters:
• Hypermarkets, multi-shops, malls and leisure centres
•
Storage bays
•
Sheltered sports centres
•
Administrative buildings
•
Hospitals, nursing homes and clinics
•
Pavilions and exhibition centres
It also establishes the minimum solar PV electric capacity to be installed, by applying a
formula defined according to the use of the building (commercial, supermarkets, hospitals,
etc.) and the climatic area in which it is built.
Reduction or elimination of this installation capacity is only possible with justifications
in certain cases: when the minimum electric power is covered by other RES; due to
architectonic barriers; when there are not suitable radiation conditions; in cases of
refurbishment, when the installation of a PV plant becomes dangerous or is impossible due
to local urban legislation; when there are limitations due to the protection of heritage or
historic buildings.
Among other aspects, the TBC regulates the size of the facilities and the layout of the
modules. In the latter case it distinguishes between three cases: general case, superposition
and architectural integration.
The new TBC deems that PV modules are architecturally integrated when they meet
both energy and architectural functions (cladding or shading) and, in addition when they
replace conventional building elements or are a constituent part of the architectural
composition. They are considered to be architecturally superposed when the panels are
fitted as an addition to the covering elements of the building.
For each of the above cases, the TBC gives maximum values for losses from orientation
and inclination, losses from shade and total losses. If these values for losses are overcome,
the PV installation could be replaced by other RES. An important measure to encourage
the integration of PV into the buildings lies in the fact that allowed losses are greater for
integration than for superposition or standard installation.
The TBC also comprises measures that affect the maintenance, operation and
monitoring of PV systems, measures that are applicable for the whole life of the
installation.
In 2012, a modification of current TBC is envisaged, at least for HE5 and solar PV
installations, as the conditions have dramatically changed for the last 10 years. For
instance, for a given PV installation, the economic effort has been reduced 10 times since
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2006. The proposal for modifications submitted by UNEF, the Spanish PV Association,
introduces the obligation of install PV in every kind of building, including residential ones.
Besides, It proposes a new way of calculating the required PV installation, instead of a
minimum size they propose a ratio of the total electricity consumption in the target building
building (introducing the self-consumption scenario).
As of November 2014, a significant modification has been applied to the HE5 regarding
the use of photovoltaic systems in new buildings. The last modification of this section of the
Spanish building code states that the initial requirements for the use of solar thermal or
photovoltaic energy in new buildings, shall be covered by means of different renewable
sources, in such a way that similar energy efficiency levels shall be obtained in a more
flexible way, permitting other innovative solutions to take part in the technological
innovation.
RD 1699/2011 of 18 November, in which the grid connection of low power installations is
regulated
This Royal Decree includes the previewed simplifications of Directives 2004/8/CE relative
to cogeneration and Directive 2009/28/CE promoting the use of renewable energy sources. It
repeals RD 1663/2000 and extends its scope.
Objective and framework
It establishes administrative, contractual, economical and technical conditions for the
distribution grid connection of small power installations.
Development of the Law 54/1997, according to Directives 2004/8/CE and 2009/28/CE
Power up to 100 kW:
Installations of Ordinary Regime1 or Special Regime2, being the latter of all typologies except
for those specified in the next section and that comply with:
Are connected to Low Voltage (LV), directly or through an interior grid of a consumer
Are connected to LV, to a transformer of an interior grid of voltage inferior to 1 kV.
These installation are excluded from the administrative regime of authorisation.
Power up to 1MW:
Installations of Ordinary Regime or Special Regime, being the latter cogeneration, biomass,
biofuels or biogas.
Connected up to 36kV, directly or through a consumer interior grid.
1
Ordinary Regime: usually conventional technologies such as coal centrals, fuel, oil, natural gas, nuclear
installations, combined cycles, etc.
2
Special Regime: Belong to this group those installations of electric energy generation of power less than 50
MW that use as primary energy renewable energies or wastes, and others such as cogeneration, which imply a
technology with a considerable level of efficiency and energy saving.
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Group of installations
Similar measures applied to PV plants will be adopted, in order to avoid small installations
whose individual power fall inside some of the previous limits but belong to a bigger group of
installations whose power would overcome them.
Endorsements
The presentation of an endorsements is compulsory. It will be cancelled, as soon as the startup minutes are presented.
For installations out of the administrative authorisation, it will be cancelled when the
definitive inscription is presented.
Simplification of procedures
The RD permits the internal connection of the consumer, which was not allowed before, since
it had to be connected to a near distribution grid up to now.
The RD narrows the durations of the steps of the grid connection process.
It simplifies the procedures needed to ask for a connection point for the installations treated in
this RD.
The RD establishes an abbreviated connection procedure for installations of nominal power of
less than 10 kW.
Technical conditions. Holder obligations
The installation holder is responsible for the proper maintenance operation of the plan, as it is
of the protection devices and interconnections.
In case of breakdowns or perturbations in the normal functioning of the installation, different
scenarios are considered in which the distributor may verify the installation with or without
authorisation, depending on the seriousness of the situation
Holder will have to ease the contact between the control centre of the distribution grid and the
operators of the installation.
Technical operating conditions
The main features of the operation regime for these facilities are defined, emphasizing its
absolute disconnection when the distribution line to which it is connected may be
disconnected.
If the distributor needs to carry out works on the grid, it will have to notice it in advance (15
days) and may prevent or condition the supply of the installation.
Specific connection conditions
The connection schemes will have to favour connection in the lowest possible level of
voltage.
If the nominal power Pnom>5 kW, the interconnection must be three-phase.
The voltage limits in which the installation must be kept are established.
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A power factor of 0.98 is defined, for cases in which the installation may work above the 25%
of Pnom.
For interior networks:
The holder of the interior network will be the same for all consume devices and generation
installation connected to its grid
Production installations can not be of P>100 kW and can never exceed the available grid
capacity, neither the power attached to the supply.
Protections
A general circuit breaker element.
A residual current circuit breaker.
Interconnection automatic circuit breaker.
Protections of the maximum and minimum frequency interconnection, and maximum and
minimum voltage between phases.
For voltages from 1 kV to 36 kV, the maximum homopolar voltage disconnection criteria
will be added.
When the generator device or the inverter bring the protection, it won’t be necessary to
duplicate them.
In general, protections will be verified by the distribution company.
Measuring points will be adjusted according to the current legislation
For installations of the Special Regime, an independent measuring point is needed
Exclusion from the authorisation administrative regime
Electricity generation installations of nominal power P<100 kW, connected directly or
through a grid of voltage inferior to 1 kV (distribution or consumer grid) are excluded from
the authorisation administrative regime.
Self-consumption
At the end of 2011, it was established that within the period of four months, the Minister of
Industry, Tourism and Trade would make a RD proposal aiming to regulate the
administrative, technical and economical conditions for the self-consumption of the energy
produced inside a consumer grid. The proposed scheme was the net-metering, with monthly
balancing. The implementation of this RD has been delayed due to other priorities of the
Government related to the Electric sector, mainly the elimination of the huge debt (more than
24.000 M€ in 2011).
As of November 2014, the long-expected net-metering scheme was never introduced and
the self-consumption policy that was presented in 2013 will not allow PV to develop in the
coming years: the possible levy imposed on prosumers (not confirmed yet), combined with
dissuasive tariffs for grid connection, appears to be the most constraining regulation in Europe
for self-consumption.
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Ministerial order on the Quality of PV installations
At present, no requirements are established at product level except for the PV inverters,
but these requirements have been established by the different Spanish utilities. There is a
draft of Ministerial order about the Quality of PV installations which is supposed to come
into force the end of 2012, which establishes the following requirements:
PV modules:
•
CE marked according to 2006/95/EC Directive
• UNE-EN 61730, on security of PV modules and UNE-EN 50380 on information
gathered in datasheets
•
89/106/CEC Directive about construction products
Additionally, and depending on the PV module technology:
a) UNE-EN 61215 for Crystalline silicon.
b) UNE-EN 61646 for thin film modules
c) UNE-EN 62108 for Concentration modules
d) IEC 62109-1/2: Safety of power converters for use in PV systems
PV inverters
•
2006/95/CE Directive
•
2004/108/CE Directive for EMC.
•
Characterisation of PV inverters must be done according to the following rules:
a) UNE-EN 62093.
b) UNE-EN 61683. PV Systems. Power conditioners. Efficiency measurement
procedure.
c) IEC 62116. Testing procedure of islanding prevention measures for utility interactive
photovoltaic inverters.
•
10 years guaranteed
Solar trackers
CE marked and 98/37/CE Directive about electrical machines. From 1st on 2006/42/CE
Directive will be applicable.
PV installations
Additionally, PV installation greater than 20 kW have to guarantee a minimum
Performance Ratio (PR) of 0.72.
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4.2.2 Economical framework
Feed in Tariffs
In 1998, Spain established the feed in tariff (FiT) as the way of providing economic support to
photovoltaics, among other renewable energies. Since the Royal Decree RD 2818/1998 of the
23rd of December, a FiT has always supported solar photovoltaic energy generation. The FiT
system has evolved over time and has been adapted to the development degree of the
technology.
The well known negative balance of the Spanish electric system (around 24.000 M€) and the
actual crisis situation in Spain, has led the Spanish government to promote a new Royal
Decree-Law, RDL 1/2012, in which the economic incentives given to renewable energies
are temporally cancelled. This measures, applicable to new installations only, aim to end
with the negative balance of the Spanish electric system by 2013.
In order to get a general overview, a summary of the FiT systems that have existed in Spain is
presented next (chronologically):
RD 2818/1998 of 23 December: this RD established the FiT for different renewable sources.
In the particular case of PV:
P<5 KW: 0.396 €/kWh
P>5 KW: 0.216 €/kWh
For a supposed market prize of 0.036 €/kWh and up to a limit of 50 MW installed power.
RD 436/2004 of 12 March: repeals RD 2818/98 and established the legal and economic
framework for the electric energy generation in special regime. It sets that the economic
incentives, FiT systems and so on, are revised every four years from 2006 and that it will just
affect new installations.
Article 33 of this RD sets the price per kWh for PV installations as follows:
P<100 kW: payment equal to the 575% of the TMR (Tarifa Media Reducida) during the first
25 years, and the 80% of that amount during the rest of its life.
P>100 KW: Tariff payment equal to the 300% of the TMR (Tarifa Media Reducida) during
the first 25 years, and the 240% during the rest of its life. FiT, 250% during the first 25 years,
and 200% after that period. Incentive: 10%
These conditions were maintained until a total installed power of 150 MW was reached.
RDL 7/2006 of 23 June: important measures are adopted in the energy sector. The Fit is no
longer related to the TMR.
RD 661/2007 of 25 May: it repeals RD 436/2004 and established the legal and economic
framework for the electric energy generation in Special Regime. It states that the review of
tariffs, FiTs and incentives will be performed each 4 years from 2010. Payment is related to
the consumer prices index (CPI)
These conditions were maintained until a total installed power of 371 MW was reached.
The FiT according to this RD was set as follows:
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POWER
P≤100kW
100kW<P≤10
MW
10<P≤50MW
Period
First
After
First
After
First
After
25
25
25
FiT
44,0381
35,2305
41,7500
33,4000
22,9764
18,3811
These tariffs were updated every year, taking as a reference the following increase:
IPC–0,25% until 2012.
IPC–0,50% from 2013 on.
RD 1578/2008 of 26 September, introducing important changes in the payments to PV
technologies. The main novelties introduced by this RD are:
Photovoltaic installations are distinguished depending on if they are ground or roof
mounted. Thus:
a)
Type I. Photovoltaic installations made on roofs or façades of buildings.
On the other hand, installations performed in parking roofs or shadowing systems.
These kinds of installations are subdivided as follows:
Type I.1) Type I installations with a power P less or equal to 20 kW
Type I.2) Type I installations with a power P higher than 20 kW
b)
Type II. Installation out the bounds established in Type I.
Typology
FiT
(c€/kWh)
Type I.1
34,00
Type I.2
32,00
Type II
32,00
Main characteristics:
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•
It established a preregistration mechanism, so, once fulfilled some
administrative issues (authorization, connection, etc.) projects were listed in a register.
•
The preregistration process took place in four calls per year.
•
Initial quotes were set on 400 MW/year (two thirds for building installations,
the rest for ground systems)
•
Payments are ensured for 25 years, and are annually checked over according to
the consumer prices index (CPI)
•
The installation presented to the first call will receive the following FiT:
Typology
FiT
(c€/kWh)
Type I.1
34,00
Type I.2
32,00
Type II
32,00
In the next calls, the FiT will be recalculated as follows:
If P ≥ 0,75 × P0,
Then: Tn = Tn-1 [(1 − A) × (P0 − P) / (0,25 × P0) + A]
If P < 0,75 x P0,
Then: Tn = Tn-1
Where:
P, power preregistered for call n-1.
P0, power quote for call n-1.
Tn-1, tariff for the installations preregistered associated to call n-1
Tn, tariff for the installations preregistered associated to call n
A, factor 0.91/m
m, number of annual calls.
RD 1565/2010 of 19 November: this RD regulated and modified different aspects related to
the electric generation activity in special regime.
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Measures that affect directly to the photovoltaic sector are:
•
FiT is suppressed after year 26 for installations under RD 661/2007
•
Remarks on the defined typologies in RD 1578/2008
Type I. In order to belong to this type, in all cases, there must be a connection point
with a hired power of at least the 25% of the nominal power which is intended to be
installed by means of PV energy.
Greenhouse PV installations or similar are out of this typology.
•
FiT reduction for the first preregistration call after the entry into force of this
RD. The new FiT is obtained by multiplying the FiT of RD 1578/2008 by the following
factors:
a) Type I.1 installations: 0,95
b) Type I.2 installations: 0,75
c) Type II installations: 0,55
FiT (c€/kWh)
Typology
Type I.1
RD 1578/2008
34,00
RD 1565/2010
32,30
Type I.2
32,00
24,00
Type II
32,00
17,60
RDL 14/2010 of 23 December, which introduces urgent measures in order to correct the
negative balance of the Spanish electric system.
This RD sets a limitation in terms of equivalent operation hours for PV installations:
1. PV installations will receive the FiT until the maximum number of equivalent hours
is reached, taking as the initial point the 0:00 hours of the 1st of January.
2. The reference equivalent hours for each installation will depend on the climatic zone
where the installation is located, depending on the climatic zones established according to
the average radiation the classification of the Spanish Building Code (RD 314/2006).
Reference equivalent hours/year
Technology
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Zo
ne I
Zone II
Zone
III
Zone
IV
Zone V
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Fixed
installations
1.2
1.362
1.492
1.632
1.753
1.6
1.770
1.940
2.122
2.279
2.2
2.367
2.015
2.204
2.367
32
1 axis tracking
02
2 axis tracking
04
RDL 1/2012 of 28 January, suspends the procedure of preregistration, no other substitution
procedure is established. Besides, the feed in tariffs and limits set in RD 661/2007 and RD
1578/2008 are suppressed.
Bill 121/000025, of tax measures for energy sustainability
This bill aims to finish with the Spanish electric system’s deficit by 2013. It involves the
creation of two nuclear taxes, a charge to the hydroelectric generation and a charge of 6% to
all activities related to electricity production.
Thus, each kWh produced by means of PV energy will be charged with a 6% from now on.
Self-consumption
Self-consumption of photovoltaic energy is regulated by RD 1955/2000, RD 661/20017,
RD 1699/2011 and RDL 1/2012.
Article 17 of RD 661/2007 sets the rights of energy producers. Among others, the right of
selling the energy produced in the energy market, with the established price of the pool in that
moment. On the other hand, RD 1/2012 does not preclude the execution of new PV
installations, it suppresses the FiTs. Thus, when a new PV installation fulfils the
administrative authorisation requirements it can access to the Special Regime and receive the
market price for the sold energy.
RD 413/2014, of June 6, for the regulation of electric energy production by means of
renewable energies, cogeneration and waste.
It repeals RD 1565/2010, regultaing and modifying the special regime energy production
activity. Regarding photovoltaics, no major changes are included.
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4.2.3 Authorization framework
The authorisation procedure for low power installations is endorsed in the RD 1699/2011. For
higher power installations, the authorisation requirements are set in RD 661/2007. We can
differ two sorts of authorisation, one for grid connection and a second one for selfconsumption:
Authorisation for grid connection:
RD 1699/2011 of 18 November, in which the grid connection of low power installations is
regulated.
Electricity generation installations of nominal power P<100 kW, connected directly or
through a grid of voltage inferior to 1 kV (distribution or consumer grid) are excluded from
the authorisation administrative regime.
RD 661/2007, that regulates the activity of electric energy production in Special Regime
Chapter II of this Royal Decree describes the administrative procedures for the inclusion of an
electric energy installation in the Special Regime, that is to say, those installations of electric
energy generation of power less than 50 MW that use as primary energy renewable energies
or wastes, and others such as cogeneration, which imply a technology with a considerable
level of efficiency and energy saving:
Article 4. Administrative Power: corresponds to the Autonomous Community (or State) to
give the administrative authorisation for the construction of installations of more than 50
MW.
Article 5. Installation authorisation: obtaining of access and connection rights to the
transport or distribution grids is a previous essential demand.
Article 6. Requirements for the inclusion of an installation in the Special Regime:
The condition of energy production installation in Special Regime is provided by the
competent Administration
Besides, the requirements addressed in Article 2 must be proved. An estimation of the energy
amount transferred to the grid must also be enclosed.
Article 7. Request presentation: the request must be presented by the holder of the installation.
Authorisation for self-consumption
The authorisation procedure for self-consumption is described in RD 1955/2000 of 1st
December, which regulates the activities of transport, distribution, commercialization, supply
and authorisation procedures of electric energy installations.
Article 60 of this RD states that:
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Access to the distribution network will be permitted to producers, autoproducers, distributors,
sellers, external agents and qualified consumers.
This right may only be restricted when a lack of needed capacity is detected.
Installations of partial self-consumption must register in the Special Regime since part of the
generated energy is introduced in the grid. However, total self-consumption installations may
not need to register in the Special Regime.
4.2.4 Qualification framework
The authorisation procedure for low power installations is endorsed in the RD 1699/2011. For
higher power installations, the authorisation requirements are set in RD 661/2007. We can
differ two sorts of authorisation, one for grid connection and a second one for selfconsumption:
Authorisation for grid connection:
RD 1699/2011 of 18 November, in which the grid connection of low power installations is
regulated
Electricity generation installations of nominal power P<100 kW, connected directly or
through a grid of voltage inferior to 1 kV (distribution or consumer grid) are excluded from
the authorisation administrative regime.
RD 661/2007, that regulates the activity of electric energy production in Special Regime
Chapter II of this Royal Decree describes the administrative procedures for the inclusion of an
electric energy installation in the Special Regime, that is to say, those installations of electric
energy generation of power less than 50 MW that use as primary energy renewable energies
or wastes, and others such as cogeneration, which imply a technology with a considerable
level of efficiency and energy saving:
Article 4. Administrative Power: corresponds to the Autonomous Community (or State) to
give the administrative authorisation for the construction of installations of more than 50
MW.
Article 5. Installation authorisation: obtaining of access and connection rights to the
transport or distribution grids is a previous essential demand.
Article 6. Requirements for the inclusion of an installation in the Special Regime:
The condition of energy production installation in Special Regime is provided by the
competent Administration
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Besides, the requirements addressed in Article 2 must be proved. An estimation of the energy
amount transferred to the grid must also be enclosed.
Article 7. Request presentation: the request must be presented by the holder of the
installation.
Authorisation for self-consumption
The authorisation procedure for self-consumption is described in RD 1955/2000 of 1st
December, which regulates the activities of transport, distribution, commercialization, supply
and authorisation procedures of electric energy installations.
Article 60 of this RD states that:
Access to the distribution network will be permitted to producers, autoproducers,
distributors, sellers, external agents and qualified consumers.
This right may only be restricted when a lack of needed capacity is detected
Installations of partial self-consumption must register in the Special Regime since part of the
generated energy is introduced in the grid. However, total self-consumption installations may
not need to register in the Special Regime.
4.2.4 Qualification framework
Concerning professional qualifications and aiming to comply with Directive
2009/28/EC requirements, the Spanish Renewable Energy Action Plan 2011-2020 (NRAP,
Sp. acronym PANER) explains that in the National Catalogue of Professional
Qualifications eight new skill-based professional qualifications are required recognising
technicians for working as RES installers, and, more specifically, two for working as PV
installers (RD 1114/2007):
ENA261-2. Assembly and maintenance of photovoltaic solar installations-Level2
•
ENA263-3. Organisation and projects of photovoltaic solar installations-Level 3,
and two professional certificates associated to these qualifications, (RD 1381/2008 and
RD 1215/2009),
• Professional certification for Assembly and maintenance of photovoltaic solar
installations-Level2 (RD 1381/2008)
• Professional certification for Organisation and projects for photovoltaic solar
installations-Level 3 (RD 1215/2009).
On the other hand, the Directive of Services 2006/123/CE is transposed in Spanish
Law 17/2009 of 23 November, on free access to services activities and exercising, and Law
25/2009 of December 22, thus, amending various laws in order to adapt them to the Law
on free access to service activities and exercising. The RD 560/2010 of 7 May amends
some regulations on industrial safety to accord with those laws. The main changes are:
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• The disappearance of professional cards (individual qualification certificate low
voltage).
• The application only of the following requirements for the exercise of the profession
as installation company:
a) Provide documentation that identifies the installing company, which in the case of a
legal person must be legally constituted.
b) Have entered into a professional liability insurance or equivalent guarantee to cover any
damages that may result in providing the service for a minimum amount of 600,000€ for the
basic category and 900,000€ for category specialist. These minimum amounts are updated by
order of the Minister of Industry, Tourism and Commerce whenever necessary to maintain the
economic equivalence of the guarantee and the report of the Government Commission for
Economic Affairs.
c) Have the technical and human resources required to place their activities in safety.
• For the recognition as Installation Company a signed declaration has to be submitted.
This allows the exercise of the profession indefinitely throughout, but may not impose
additional requirements or conditions.
• You may require the submission of documentation of compliance with the
requirements along with the declaration. However, this documentation must be available for
immediate submission to the competent authority if it so required in the exercise of its powers
of inspection, verification and control.
The changes introduced by these laws have made necessary a voluntary certification CTC076 which is in progress led by AENOR, in collaboration with FENIE (Spanish Federation of
Electrical & Telecommunication Contractors) for the developing of CTC 076.03, a
certification of “Services associated with the low-voltage electrical installations” focused in a
certification for specialists in renewable energy services, in general; and Photovoltaic Solar
Energy PV installers' certification in particular.
The purpose of the CTC 076.03 is certifying knowledge of the installation companies
specialize in Renewable Energy in different services as Photovoltaic Solar Energy, Solar
Thermal Electric, Small wind energy, Hydraulic Power, Geothermal Energy, Residual
biomass, Tidal Energy, other energy sources.
CTC-076 main objectives are:
•
•
•
•
Strict compliance with the requirement of Low Voltage Regulations.
Cost of accreditation as low as possible
Creating a Certification of base
Incorporation of new requirements in the future, when the situation is better.
Additional information extracted from (PANER 2010-2020, NRAP in English
4.2.5 Certificación de los instaladores
Directive 2009/28/EC. )
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In the attainment of the objectives pursued under Directive 2009/28/EC is the
implementation, in Member States, on certification and qualification systems installers of
renewable energy facilities, the situation in SPAIN is as follows.
At national level in Spain, installers of these systems can be classified into two groups:
professionally qualified installers and authorised installers.
Professionally qualified installers:
Professionally qualified installers are those who have accredited professional
installation skills acquired through vocational and continuing training, training and
employment programmes and apprenticeship contracts. The occupation of professionally
qualified installer is regulated by a proficiency certificate under Royal Decree 34/2008 of
18 January 2008 regulating proficiency certificates. Today, proficiency certificates are the
direct responsibility of the Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs, the Ministry of
Education and analogous bodies at regional level.
In Spain, qualifications and vocational training are regulated by Organic Law 5/2002
of 19 June 2002. The object of this Law is to set up an integrated training system where
training actions are programmed and carried out within the framework of the National
Qualification and Vocational Training System (Sp. acronym SNCFP).
The SNCFP is a set of instruments and actions designed to promote and integrate
vocational training courses in the National Professional Qualifications Catalogue. It also
seeks to promote and develop evaluation and accreditation of the corresponding
professional competences so as to encourage personal professional and social development
while covering the needs of the productive system. This catalogue includes the
professional qualifications required of installers of renewable energy installations.
Law 1/1986 of 7 January 1986 created the General Vocational Training Council (Sp.
acronym CGFP) to draft SNCFP guidelines. This Council was conceived as a tripartite
advisory body with the participation of employer organisations, trade unions and the Public
Administrations. The CGFP is attached to the Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs and is
a specialised body that advises the Government in the area of Vocational Training.
In addition, in order to support the General Vocational Training Council in its
endeavour to achieve the objectives of the National Qualifications and Vocational Training
System, Royal Decree 375/1999 of 5 March 1999 created the National Qualifications
Institute Sp. acronym INCUAL) as a technical instrument with power to act and
independence of criteria. Also, under Organic Law 5/2002 on Qualifications and
Vocational Training, INCUAL is responsible for defining, drawing up and updating the
National Professional Qualifications Catalogue and the corresponding Modular Vocational
Training Catalogue. The General Council for Vocational Training is the governing body of
INCUAL, although organisationally it is attached to the Secretariat-General of Education
(Ministry of Education and Science) pursuant to Royal Decree 1553/2004 of 20 June 2004.
All this are defined up to 60%, and later it is transferred to the different Autonomous
Communities which have the competences to define de remaining 40%.For example in the
Basque Country the KEI IVAC (Basque Institute of Qualification and Vocational
Training).
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The National Catalogue of Professional Qualifications is used to design Skill Training
supply. Training supply can be imparted in two modes: Formal or Initial Training, and
Continuous or Employment Training
The Formal or Initial Training, for both, Vocational Training High and Middle degree
(European standard level 4 and 2 respectively) is based firstly on the Professional
Qualification Programs in and, secondly, in Vocational Education and Training Programs.
First Programs are offered by authorized schools and the second ones by Vocational
Education and Training schools. The Education Department of the Basque Government is
responsible for this training.
Continuous or Employment training takes the form of Proficiency Certificates. The Labour
Department is responsible for this training.
The Vocational Education and Training Programs and Proficiency Certificates are used to
define the modular Catalogue for Continuous or Employment training, which offers
HOBETUZ (in the Basque Country) through authorized schools.
See Installer certification: Identification of bodies and regulations. National entities in the
Annex 1.
Each professional qualification under the CNCP now comes with a list of professional
skills needed for employment which can be acquired through modular training, other types of
training and through on-the-job experience.
Some of these professional qualifications serve as credentials allowing these professionals
to work as installers within the scope of the 2011-2020 NREAP. In this connection, eight
professional qualifications have been identified for persons working as installers of smallscale biomass boilers and stoves, solar thermal and photovoltaic systems, shallow geothermal
systems and heat pumps.
It is important to note that with the exception of installers of solar thermal and photovoltaic
systems, the CNCP does not provide for a specific professional qualification for small-scale
biomass boilers and stoves, shallow geothermal systems or heat pumps. However, other more
general qualifications which totally or partially cover the skills needed to work as an installer
are laid down in Article 14(3) of Directive 2009/28/EC.
The CNCP thus specifies the following professional qualifications for professionals with
recognised skills to work as photovoltaic installers within the framework established by
Directive 2009/28/EC. (See Annex 2).
Each qualification is assigned a general skill where the professional's essential duties and
function are briefly defined. Each professional qualification also includes a description of the
professional environment in which the qualification can be achieved, the appropriate
productive sectors and the relevant occupations or job posts to which the qualification gives
access.
These skill units are associated with training modules, each composed of a number of
training units.
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Article 14 of Royal Decree 34/2008 of 18 January 2008 provides that students wishing
to be examined shall do so, on a module-by-module basis, and when appropriate, on a
training unit-by-training unit basis, systematically and continuously, in order to verify that
they have learned and acquired the requisite professional skills.
The trainers in charge of the training actions evaluate the students. To earn the training
unit accreditation, the student must receive a positive evaluation (grades are awarded as
"acceptable" or "not acceptable") in the training modules associated with each one of them.
The learning centres where the training modules leading to professional certificates are
taught must, within a period not to exceed three months, submit the evaluation bulletin and
the documents showing the results of the evaluation to the Labour Administration Register.
Installation companies:
An installation company is any natural or legal person who, on the basis of theoreticalpractical knowledge and in accordance with applicable law, is authorised to render services
and perform works in a specific sector (electricity, climate control, plumbing, etc.). The
professional activities required for certain industrial installations are recognised by installer
licenses issued by the regional authority competent in matters of industry. An authorised
installer’s license is an administrative authorisation that is required for anyone to install,
and in some cases design, certain industrial installations.
Within the groups of installers referred to in the 2011-2020 NREAP and pursuant to
regulations currently in force, authorised companies can be divided into two groups:
a) Qualified installation companies whose professional scope is governed by the
Regulation on Thermal Installations in Buildings and its Technical Instructions approved
by Royal Decree 1027/2007 of 20 July 2007. The installation of small scale biomass
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boilers and stoves, solar thermal systems, shallow geothermal systems and heat pumps is
included in this group of qualified installers. This whole set of renewable energy systems are
are considered thermal systems in buildings within the meaning of Royal Decree 1027/2007
1027/2007 of 20 July 2007.
b) Installation companies whose professional scope is governed by the low voltage electrotechnical Regulation and its Technical Instructions approved by Royal Decree 842/2002 of 2
August 2002. Photovoltaic systems are included in this group, in the category specialist
authorised installers for low voltage generating installations of authorised installers.
Within the group of photovoltaic installations. According to ITC-BT-04 of the low voltage
electro-technical Regulation, the size of the installation will determine whether an authorised
installer is needed (pursuant to Royal Decree 560/2010 of 7 May 2010) at the different stages
of a project for a new generator or converter installation. In this connection, for purposes of
official processing of a photovoltaic installation, two different cases are possible depending
on the size:
1) When the electrical rating is 10 kW or less, the installation must be designed, calculated,
installed and tested by an installation company or competent certified technician, who will
then have to draft a technical design report (Sp. acronym MTD) for official authorisation,
which must be drawn up in accordance with the procedure specified by the Autonomous
Community in question and filed once the installation is complete.
2) Installations whose electrical rating exceeds 10 kW must also be performed by
installation companies, but these require a preliminary project and must be supervised by a
competent technician(s).
See Installer Certification: Authorised installers. Principal agents involved in the various
stages of implementation of projects for thermal photovoltaic installations in the Annex 3.
The Ministry of Industry, Tourism and Trade is also the competent national body in
matters of electrical installations.
The professional license certification alone does not authorise the installer to perform that
professional activity; work must be performed within the context of a legally established
installation company registered in the official Register of Companies of the Autonomous
Communities.
An installation company authorised to install PV systems shall mean a natural or legal
person who assembles, repairs and maintains electrical installations within the scope of the
REBT.
Once companies have met the requirements, the competent body of the Autonomous
Community will issue the attendant registration certificate to the authorised installation
company.
Also, any European Union company which meets the established requirements to engage
in this professional activity may apply for registration in the Register of Installation
companies or in the Register of authorised maintenance companies of thermal installations in
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buildings. This application must be submitted to the competent body of the Autonomous
Community where the company plans to carry on its activity.
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ANNEX 1: Installer certification
Identification of bodies and regulations. National entities
National bodies with competences in matters of installer certification through the National Qualification and Vocational
Training System (Sp. acronym SNCFP)
Scope
Dependent
body
Government
of Spain
General
Vocational
Training
Council CSFP
National
Ministry of
Labour and
Social Affairs
25/09/2012
Functions
• Draw up and propose the National Vocational Training Programme for Government approval.
Within that framework Autonomous Communities with competences in this area can regulate
specific characteristics for their respective territories.
• Evaluate and control implementation of the Programme and propose updates as necessary,
without prejudice to the competences of the Autonomous Communities in this sphere.
• Inform proposals for curricula and qualifications corresponding to the various degrees and to
specialist areas in vocation training; also certificates of professional competence in the area of
occupational vocational training, and where appropriate academic or professional homologation
with the corresponding regulated vocational training degrees, without prejudice to the
competences of the State Schools Council in these matters.
• Report on any matters that may be submitted to it by the Public Administrations in connection
with vocational training.
• Submit proposals and recommendations to the public Administrations competent in matters of
vocational training, especially those relating to implementation of the National Vocational
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Functions
Training Programme.
• Propose actions to improve vocational guidance, particularly actions within the ambit of the
Ministry of Education and Science and the Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs.
Evaluate and follow up actions undertaken in matters of vocational training.
National
Institute for
Qualifications
30/11/2012
Government
of Spain.
National
Ministry of
Education
and Science
• Propose the establishment and administration of a National System of Professional Qualifications.
• Establish criteria for the requirements and characteristics that qualifications must satisfy.
• Establish a basic methodology to identify professional skills and define the model that a
professional qualification must adopt in order to be included in the National System of
Professional Qualifications.
• Propose a system of professional accreditation and recognition.
• Establish a procedure whereby regional Qualification Agencies or Institutes and social agents can
share responsibility.
• Lay down criteria for the basic methods that must be followed in assessing competence and for
the procedure to be followed for granting of accreditation by the competent authorities.
• Propose procedures for establishing modes of competence accreditation.
• Carry on essentially technical Vocational Training activities with both a national and a Communitywide scope.
• Facilitate functional inter-relationships between training activities of the different Vocational
Training subsystems, and of the qualifications and certificates that they generate on the one hand,
and vocational classification systems created through collective bargaining on the other.
• Perform the necessary tasks for the establishment of a frame of reference for the general
programming of all subsystems; and at the same time provide support for normative and
regulatory tasks in the field of Vocational Training.
• Propose whatever measures are necessary for regulation of the system of correspondences,
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Scope
Dependent
body
Functions
•
•
•
•
30/11/2012
recognition and equivalences among the three Vocational Training subsystems (regulated,
occupational and continuous), including in-work experience.
Provide support for start-up and expansion of the new training contract.
Improve the design and content of certificates of professional competence; this will facilitate
recognition and correspondences.
Propose, through the General Vocational Training Council, a definition of the scope of the
Occupational Vocational Training modules for purposes of capitalisation, via the appropriate
certificate of professional competence, for workers pursuing them.
Submit proposals on certification of continuous training actions in connection with the National
System of Qualifications, through integration in the National System of Professional Qualifications,
in both legal and functional terms.
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ANNEX 2: Installer certification
Professional certification. Professional photovoltaic qualifications.
Skill-based professional qualifications recognised for working as a photovoltaic installer within the framework laid down by Directive 2009/28/EC
(1/2)
References
Professional
General competence
Units of competence
qualification
• Vocational
family:
• Energy and
Water
• Level: 2
• Code:
ENA261
Assembly and
maintenance
of photovoltaic
solar
installations
Perform the assembly, commissioning, operation and
maintenance of photovoltaic solar installations, to
required quality and safety standards and in accordance
with current regulations
• Vocational
family:
• Energy and
Water
• Level: 3
• Code:
ENA263
Organisation
and
projects
for
photovoltaic
solar
installations
Promote installations, implement projects and administer
the assembly and maintenance of isolated and gridconnected photovoltaic solar installations, applying the
requisite techniques and procedures in each case, and
optimising the available human and material resources,
to the requisite quality standards, in compliance with
current regulations and in conditions of safety
30/11/2012
UC0835_2: Laying-out of photovoltaic solar installations
UC0836_2: Assembly of photovoltaic solar installations
UC0837_2: Maintenance of photovoltaic solar installations
UC0842_3: Determine the viability of solar installation projects
UC0843_3: Implement photovoltaic solar installation projects
UC0844_3: Organise and control the assembly of PV installations
UC0845_3: Organise and control the maintenance of PV installations
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ANNEX 3: Installer certification
Authorised PV installers
Principal agents involved in the various stages of implementation of projects for photovoltaic installations
Photovoltaic
installations
Type of installation
1. Calculation
design
and
2. Execution
3.
Construction
supervision
4. Final tests
5. Compulsory
maintenance
4.
Installation
with
electrical capacity of less
than 10 kW
Installation company
Installation
company
Not required Installation
company
Installation company
Photovoltaic
installations
5.
Installation
with
electrical capacity greater
than 10 kW
Holder of appropriate
qualification (engineer or
technical engineer)
Installation
company
Holder of appropriate
qualification (engineer or
technical engineer)
Installation
company
supervised by project
supervisor
Installation
company
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4.3 GREECE
4.3.1 Technical framework
The Ministry of Environment, Energy and Climate Change in the context of promoting the
use of renewable energy, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and support green business
announced in 2009 the launch of a Special Development Program Photovoltaic until 10 kWp,
in Building facilities used for housing or housing micro enterprises (JMD Ministers of
Economy and Finance - Development - Environment, Physical Planning and Public Works
Gov. 1079/V/04.06.2009).
Note that one of the prerequisites for admission to the program is that part of the heating
needs for hot water the property owner if the PV is used for housing, should be met by
renewable energy sources such as solar thermal indication, solar water heaters (Article 2,
Paragraph 6, Gov. 1079/V/04.06.2009 JMD).
Technical Information regarding PV stations on buildings ≤ 10 kWp connected to the low
voltage grid.
The following affirmation is signed by the Engineer of “appropriate qualification” towards the Grid
operator, together with other relevant to authorization process application.
1.) Inverters satisfy all safety regulations of Operator of Electricity Distribution Network.
2.) If, and for any reason, the distribution line is disconnected from the public grid, the PV
system (inverter in particular) show no voltage on this line.
3.) The inverter is connected to power input point and is disconnected by internal relays
which are controlled by S/W which allows:
•
Automatic reconnection with the grid for voltage and frequency limits within the
range of 0,8 x Vnom -1,15 x Vnom και 49,5 Hz–50,5 Hz.
• Direct (< 0,5 s) disconnection if voltage and/or frequency are not within above limits
• Final user has no access to S/W or to adjustment control.
4.) Time period of re-connection after grid reset is at least 3 minutes.
5.) For inverters without transformers, DC current allowed in the grid is < 0,5 % of nominal
current.
6) The inverter has undergone final laboratory tests for above mentioned magnetic field
power
7.) Total harmonic distortion of output voltage (THDU) is less than 4 %.
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8.) To actively protect the grid from the “islanding” phenomenon, an impedance measurement
within the inverter should take place according to DIN VDE 0126-1-1 (2.06).
9.) All above protection should be stated in hardware manuals or certificates.
4.3.2 Economical framework
The programme “PV on Roofs” has given incentives, in the form of feed in tariff for the
installation of small PV systems on buildings/households. The domestic consumer invests in
the system and makes a reasonable profit with short payback periods, while at the same time
feeds green energy into the county’s grid, helping towards the 20-20-20 target. So far the
industry exhibited remarkable resistance to the current financial crisis and is perhaps the only
sector of the economy with high growth rates.
The “sun market” is now the largest employer in the area of green energy, with nearly 25000
direct and indirect full-time equivalent jobs and many domestic production plants of PV
panels and auxiliary equipment.
The Greek market of PV was the 6th largest in Europe and 10th worldwide for the past year.
This comes at no surprise given that from the initiation of the programme, investors/citizens
had benefited from a feed in tariff of 0.55€/kWh.
Unfortunately due to the current financial draught, mainly due to stringent bank financing and
not so hopeful financial data of the Grid corporation, the feed in tariff surged from this year to
0,25€/kWh, with descending prices for the coming years. This new feed in tariffs for PV
stations do not affect the already installed PV systems having contracts with past higher feed
in tariff.
Thus, from August 2012, the price of electric energy fed into the grid is determined according
to the following table:
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Month / year
Price
(euro/MWh)
August 2012
250.0
February 2013
238.75
August 2013
228.01
February 2014
217.75
August 2014
207.95
February 2015
198.59
August 2015
189.65
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February 2016
181.12
August 2016
172.97
February 2017
165.18
August 2017
157.75
February 2018
150.65
August 2018
143.87
Plan of Ministerial decree applying PV Net-Metering in Greece
Article 1
Scope – applied field
1. A Special Program, hereinafter Program, is established for PV systems installations
by auto-producers within the meaning of paragraph 6 of Article 2 of Law 3468 / 2006, for
its own energy needs, by applying energy net metering.
2. The power of each photovoltaic system can be up to 20 kWp and up to 50% of the
agreed power consumption (Photovoltaic Power (kW) ≤ 0,5xAgreed maximum Power
Consumption (kVA)), where the system capacity is greater than the threshold of 20 kWp.
Especially for legal persons, public or private, charity organizations or public interest
purposes, at a general or local scale, the maximum power of each PV system can be up to
100% of the agreed maximum power consumption.
3. In each case, the power of a photovoltaic system to be installed under the Program on
the Interconnected System and Network can’t exceed the capacity limit of par. 1 of Article
14A of Law 3468/2006 (500 kWp), as currently in force.
4. Especially in the non-interconnected islands, PV systems can be installed with a
power capacity up to 10kWp, and especially for Crete, up to 20 kWp. For photovoltaic
systems beyond these limits, the limit is according to the provision of par. 3, maximum
power limit per system of 50 kWp for Crete and 20 kWp for the other non-interconnected
islands. The power capacity of PV systems of this program to be installed on each non
interconnected island will be accounted in the applicable margin for PV power capacity of
the island autonomous power system, in accordance with the relevant decisions of RAE
(Regulatory Authority for Energy).
5. The net metering procedure stands for the offset of the energy output from the
photovoltaic system from the energy consumption on the premises of the auto-producer,
which is carried out on an annual cycle.
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6. The program concerns fixed photovoltaic systems which are installed on the same or
adjacent surface area (owned or co-owned) with consumption facilities which they feed and
connected to the Network (a network of low, medium and high voltage network).
Photovoltaic systems can be mounted on buildings or on free land or other structures,
according to current planning legislation.
7. Eligibility to be included in the Program is offered to individuals (traders or otherwise)
or legal persons governed by public or private law which either own the installation site of the
photovoltaic system or have legal use (eg. through leasing, free concession etc.) and in that
case ensure that they have the written consent of the owner of the site.
8. In the case of a PV system on a shared or jointly-owned building area, one or more PV
systems may be installed. Eligibility to participate in the Program is allowed when the
property owner grants the right to use of a shared or jointly owned area from the other coowners. Condition is the agreement of the co-owners of proven practical decision of the
general meeting or by written consent of all other co-owners of the building, in accordance
with the relevant statutory or other binding contracts under the provisions of the Civil Code. If
no such contracts exist, requires the consent of all co-owners.
9. Every photovoltaic system is assigned exclusively to one new energy meter.
10. A transition from the existing "Special Development Plan of photovoltaic systems in
buildings and in particular on rooftops and building roofs" of paragraph 3 of Article 14 of the
Law 3468/2006 is allowed into the net metering Program. In this case a new power contract is
signed, for the remaining period of up to 25 years of the original contract for feeding in
electricity. Coexistence of the past program users with the new program users is not allowed
on the same
4.3.3 Authorization framework
Since 1 July 2009 a program has been in force for the installation of small PV systems (<10
kW) in the residential sector. In September 2010, the program was extended to cover noninterconnected islands as well (systems up to 10 kW are allowed on the island of Crete and up
to 5 kW on all other non-interconnected islands), and authorisation procedures have been
further simplified. Most barriers have been lifted for this segment.
For being eligible to incentives, a part of the building's hot water needs must be covered by
renewable sources of energy.
The only authority involved as of September 2010 is the local branch of the Public Power
Corporation (PPC) (or any other electricity retailer) with which the “compensation
agreement” is being signed. On each island there is a limit for residential systems according to
the grid capabilities.
There is no special framework for BIPV systems, as all building mounted PV systems are
considered under the same Law.
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Recently, in August 2012, an MD dictates that there are no more Production Licences allowed
to be issued by the Regulatory Authority for Energy (RAE), regarding the installation of PVs
on buildings of more than 10kW and up to 100kW.
This implies that presently, the market is open ONLY for small PVs on buildings, up to 10
kW in power. At the same time, the Grid of Peloponese and Evia are saturated even for small
systems, hence no more PV applications are considered for these two areas.
Thus, for small, up to 10kW systems on buildings, the following 2 single steps are involved:
1. Application to the local utility office for grid connection and signing a contract for selling
electricity to the grid.
2. Installation of the PV system
Documents and Data required together with initial application
1. Technical manuals and certifications of PV panels
2. Technical manuals and certifications of inverters
3. Single line schematic electrical diagram of PV system (signed by an
Engineer with appropriate qualification)
4. Copy of recent electricity bill
(refering to electricity meter of the installation building)
5. Topography plan of installation site (for buildings outside city plan)
6. Drawing Plan of installation including PV panel installation
7. Ownership Proof documentation of installation site (building, etc) such as
deed, or signatures of multiple owners for shared ownerships, etc
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8. Affirmation where applicant states:
a) The PV installation project is not involved in any other funding scheme.
b) Part of the building's hot water needs are being covered by renewable
sources of energy
c) All above statements are true.
The application for Grid Connection is forwarded to the local branch of the Public Power
Corporation (the form is distributed by the Distribution Grid Operator). Preconditions are that
the interested party must already have chosen the type of equipment which will be installed
and have carried out the relevant technical study.
The Public Power Corporation examines the application and proceeds, within twenty (20)
days from receipt of the application, to written formulation of an Offer of Connection to the
interested party, which includes the description and the investment in the connection works,
and is valid for three (3) months from its date of issue.
4.3.4 Qualification framework
The application for Grid Connection is accompanied by a technical study, signed by an
Engineer with “appropriate qualification”. This practically means that in Greece, such studies
are signed by Electro-Mechanical Engineers. The same Engineers are usually responsible for
supervising installation works. The completed installation inspection is carried out by an
Engineer of the Local Grid Operator, which activates the connection.
The term “appropriate qualification” implies that there is no accreditation body yet in Greece,
assigned as responsible in order to accredit the Engineers involved in PV installations.
According to European Directive 2009/28/EC, article 14, paragraph 3, Member States shall
ensure that certification schemes or equivalent qualification schemes become or are available
by 31 December 2012 for installers of small-scale RES Systems.
The Ministry of Environment, Energy and Climate Change in the context of being consistent
with this Directive, is currently working on this issue.
4.4 BELGIUM
The Kingdom of Belgium produces over half of its electricity through nuclear energy. In
2000, nuclear power contributed to 58.24% of the 78.85 TWh (total rate: 9 GWe) produced
domestically.
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As of 2006, about 56% of electricity comes from nuclear energy.
Belgium has two nuclear power plants:
•
•
Nuclear Plant Doel with four reactors of 392, 433, 1006 and 1008 MWe (1975)
Nuclear Plant Tihange with three reactors of 962, 1008 and 1015 MWe (1975)
By law (the "Wet op de kernuitstap") the nuclear power plants are scheduled to close in 2014,
but it is widely assumed that the government will replace that law. In October 2009, the final
version of GEMIX report commissioned by Minister Paul Magnette was published. The
report studied the energy sources for the years 2020 and 2030. It recommended not to close
the old nuclear reactors in 2015 as previously planned. Ecolo the French speaking green party
was against keeping them after 2015.
Belgium is a federal state. The energy policy is mainly set by the three regions (for example
green certificates) but the federal government has jurisdiction in some areas, including the
country's nuclear policy - namely keeping or closing the Belgium's two nuclear plants.
According to the National Renewable Energy Action Plan Belgium has 13% RES target in
2020, up from 2% in 2005. Renewable electricity will represent the largest share of RES in
2020 (20.9%). The annual production in 2020 is estimated at wind 10.5 TWh, biomass 11
TWh and PV 1 TWh. Wind energy will cover 9.5% of electricity. Wind capacity is estimated
as 4,320 MW in 2020.
Electricity
Electrabel is main producer of electricity, followed by EDF Luminus. Elia System Operator is
the company that transports electricity and there are local companies (that may be public,
private of public and private) that manage the local grid. Some of the electricity is produced
domestically, some is imported. Belgium also exports electricity to its neighbours.
In 2000, Belgium produced 78,85 TWh.
Renewable energy
Renewable energy potential
In 2000, renewable energy was used for producing 0.71% of the 78.85 TWh of electricity
produced domestically
According to the GEMIX report, published on 9 October 2009 and commissioned by the
Minister Paul Magnette, the potential of renewable energy sources is 17 TWh per year.
Edora, the union of renewable energy producers in Wallonia refers to studies claiming that
7.8 TWh may come from renewable in 2015.
Solar power
The number of solar power installations increased four times, it went from 16,000 at the end
of 2008 to 65,000 at the end of 2009. At the end of 2009, the installed power was about 220
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MW. As of December 2009, there were 35,500 solar power installation in the Flemish region
(The Vreg expected that it will reach 50,000 at the end of 2009 ), 17,000 solar power
installation in the Walloon region and 7,000 in the Brussels Capital Region. Installed
capacity of solar power has increased enormously since 2007.
As of 31 December 2009, the capacity in the Walloon region is 64 MWp
As of 30 September 2009, in the Flemish region, there were 35 444 installations that
received green certificates for In 2008, there were 12 703 installations in the Flemish region.
In October 2009, the city of Antwerp announced that they want to install 2,500 m² of solar
panels on roofs of public buildings, that will be worth 265,000 kWh per annum.
In 2009, the city of Leuven has installed 1,810 solar panels on public buildings.
In December 2009, Katoen Natie announced that they will install 800,000 m² of solar panels
in various places, including Antwerp. It is expected that the installed solar power in the
Flemish Region will be increased by 25%, when finished. That will be the largest installation
in Europe. The total cost will be 166 million euros. The installation produces about 35 GWh
yearly.
In 2011, it became clear that Flemish subsidies for solar panels were too high, and people
without solar panels would have to pay a higher electricity bill (up to € 148 extra) to pay for
those subsidies. Flemish minister for Energy Freya van den Bossche admitted that subsidies
were too high, especially for large-scale installations
4.4.1 Technical framework
Competences regarding energy policy are divided between the Federal Authority and the
Regions (Division of competences of 8 August 1980. — Loi spéciale de réformes
institutionnelles (Special Institutional Reforms Act), M.B. of 15 August 1980.
The regional aspects of energy policy include:
(a) distribution and local transmission of electricity by means of grids with a nominal voltage
of 70,000 volt or less;
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(b) public distribution of gas;
(c) the use of coal mine methane and blast furnaces gas;
(d) district heating distribution networks;
(e) slag heap recovery;
(f) new energy sources with the exception of those relating to nuclear energy;
(g) energy recovery by industries and other users;
(h) rational use of energy.
The Federal Authority is competent for all matters which require uniform implementation on
a national level due to their technical or economic indivisibility, in particular:
(i) the national infrastructure plan for the electricity sector;
(j) the nuclear fuel cycle;
(k) large-scale storage infrastructures, the transmission and production of energy;
(l) tariffs.
Belgium authorities pursue a sustainable energy policy that takes into account the economic
and social interests of the energy sector as well as the exhaustion of fossil resources and
environmental concerns.
In this context, renewable energy sources contribute to achieving the following targets:
•
reducing consumption of energy from fossil sources to safeguard future reserves;
•
reducing greenhouse gas emissions;
•
reducing the country's dependence on energy imports;
•
minimising the impact of price fluctuations for energy from other sources;
•
creating employment in the framework of an innovative economy;
•
diversifying the available range of energy to improve the functioning of the energy
market.
In the field of electricity generation, Belgium has set up a scheme of green certificates and has
guaranteed minimum prices to support the development of electricity generation from
renewable sources.
In order to support the establishment of units producing energy from renewable sources, the
Regions have initiated schemes to provide investment grants for companies and premiums for
individuals, while the Federal Authority has recourse to fiscal tools (tax deductions for
companies and tax reductions for individuals).
As far as regulatory measures are concerned, renewable energy projects must comply with
applicable environmental and urban planning provisions, in particular with authorization
requirements. However, for certain technologies specific, more flexible systems – based on
the size of the installation are envisaged.
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4.4.2 Economical framework
Support schemes to promote the use of energy from renewable resources in electricity
applied by the Member State or a group of Member States
Regulation
The Federal Authority and the Regions have set up systems of tradable certificates to promote
the generation of electricity from renewable sources in line with the competences assigned to
them.
Although largely similar, in particular with regard to the underlying notions (systems of
tradable certificates with varying support levels according to the applied technology), the
systems developed by each of these entities present certain specific features.
The table below summarises the main characteristics of these mechanisms:
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The support schemes are governed by the following legal instruments:
Federal Authority:
•
Act of 29 April 1999 concerning the organisation of the electricity market;
•
Royal Decree of 16 July 2002 concerning the establishment of mechanisms to promote
electricity generated from renewable energy sources;
Flemish Region:
•
Decree of 17 July 2000 concerning the organisation of the electricity market
(Electricity Decree);
•
Decree of the Flemish Government dated 5 March 2004 on promoting electricity
generation from renewable energy sources.
Walloon Region:
•
Decree of 12 April 2001 concerning the organisation of the electricity market;
•
Decree of the Walloon Government dated 30 November 2006 on promoting electricity
from renewable energy sources or CHP.
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Brussels Capital Region:
•
Ordinance of 19 July 2001 concerning the organisation of the electricity market in the
Brussels Capital Region;
•
Decree of 29 March 2007 fixing the quotas for green certificates for 2008 and the
following years.
The support varies on according to the additional costs of the various technologies.
The regional regulatory bodies are essentially responsible for verifying compliance with the
quota obligation imposed on suppliers in line with the modalities defined by regional
legislation.
CREG, Commission for Regulation of Electricity and Gas, is responsible for the follow-up
on the federal mechanism of green certificates.
The following financial support schemes were introduced for the benefit of installations
producing electricity from renewable energy sources:
•
support for production schemes (essentially the tradable certificates schemes and
related provisions);
•
support for investment schemes.
Support for ecological investments (ecologiesteun):
Companies can benefit from a premium for investments in the production of energy from
renewable energy sources. For small and medium-sized enterprises, the subsidy is at most
40% of the admissible additional costs, and at most 20% for large enterprises. The admissible
additional costs vary according to technology:
•
10% for wind energy (more than 1.5 MW);
•
50% for biomass, biogas and CHP generation plants;
•
10% for PV solar panels.
Walloon Region:
Investment premium (and exemption from property tax): Companies benefit from a premium
for investments in the production of energy from renewable energy sources. For small and
medium-sized enterprises, the subsidy is at most 50% of the admissible additional costs, and
at most 20-30% for large enterprises (depending on their geographic location). The admissible
additional costs vary according to technology:
Furthermore, the Walloon Region has introduced a system of advance granting of green
certificates for installations with a developable net capacity of 10 kW or less. This advance is
subject to conditions and must be applied for with, and approved by, CWaPE. The green
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certificates granted in advance correspond to the estimated number of green certificates that
will be granted over a production period of 5 years, with a maximum of 40 green certificates.
Brussels Capital Region
The 'energy premiums' support project promoters in acquiring installations for the production
of energy from renewable energy sources. For photovoltaic solar panels, and within the
authorised limits, the premium in the year 2010 amounts to EUR 1 per installed Watt peak16.
The premium is limited to 30% of the invoice amount (including VAT).
4.4.3 Authorization framework
The competence for granting environmental permits and urban planning permits rests with
the Regions in relation to their territories, and with the Federal Authority for marine spaces
under Belgium competence. The Federal Authority also grants production authorisations for
electricity production in excess of 25 MW.
The pertinent legislation is listed below, grouped according to the competent entities:
Federal authority:
•
Royal Decree of 16 July 2002 on the establishment of mechanisms to promote
electricity generated from renewable energy sources.
•
Other electricity generating installations (onshore)
•
Act of 29 April 1999 concerning the organisation of the electricity market;
•
Royal Decree of 11 October 2000 on the granting of individual authorisations for the
establishment of electricity generating installation.
Flemish Region:
General:
•
Flemish Regional Planning Code, in force since 1 September 2009;
•
Decree of 28 June 1985 on environmental permits;
•
Order of the Flemish Government dated 6 February 1991 establishing the Flemish
scheme of environmental permits (Vlarem I);
•
Order of the Flemish Government dated 1 June 1995 concerning general and sectoral
provisions relating to environmental safety (Vlarem II);
•
Decree of 5 April 1995 containing general provisions on environmental policy;
•
Order of the Flemish Government dated 10 December 2004 establishing the project
categories which are subject to environmental impact assessment.
Solar energy:
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•
Circular RO2008/02 - Solar panels integrated into pitched roofs of buildings and
relation to regulations on land division authorisations, specific development plans and
spatial implementation plans.
•
Distribution infrastructure
•
Technical Regulation on the Distribution of Electricity - (TRDE) established by
VREG.
Walloon Region:
General:
•
Walloon Regional Planning, Urban Planning, Heritage and Energy Code
(CWATUPE);
•
Decree of 11 March 1999 on environmental permits;
•
Order of 4 July 2002 specifying the list of projects subject to environmental impact
studies and of classified activities;
Brussels Capital Region:
•
Brussels Regional Planning Code (COBAT);
•
Ordinance of 5 June 1997 relating to environmental permits (OPE) and its
modifications;
•
Ordinance of 22 April 1999 specifying the list of Category 1A installations;
•
Government Order of 4 March 1999 specifying the list of classified installations (1B,
II and III);
•
Government Order of 4 September 2008 determining the list of public utility
installations for which environmental permits are issued by the Brussels Institute for
Management of the Environment;
•
Government Order of 28 May 2009 determining the composition of the application
file for environmental permits;
•
Technical regulations of network operators (Sibelga and Elia).
4.4.4 Qualification framework
QUEST is responsible for the development, implementation and operational management of a
professional quality system for domestic renewable energy generating schemes such as solar
thermal energy, solar panels and heat pumps.
The QUEST quality centre was founded in 2006 with the support of the Flemish Region.
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The Walloon Region has implemented a network of facilitators and a scheme of financial
incentives to promote the integration of high-quality RES into buildings in line with European
legislation and, in the case of solar thermal energy, by requiring the employment of an
installer approved by the Region.
The energy premiums granted by the Brussels Capital Region requires compliance with
technical specifications based on national and European norms. These technical specifications
will be reviewed annually at the time when the premiums are to be revised. The recognition
and/or implementation of clear norms/labels to assess the quality of the material and/or the
fuel will have to be considered as soon as possible. The Brussels Capital Region of Brussels
also has a ‘Renewable Energy Facilitator’ and supports many partners who are actively
involved in the promotion of renewable energies and eco-friendly
The regional authorities play the principal role in providing information on facilities and
renewable energy in general, on district heating, certification of installers and information
pertaining thereto. In general, this information goes hand in hand with creating awareness for
the rational use of energy. Specific platforms seek to harmonise the certification of installers
and the coordination for residential and non-residential buildings among the three Regions.
The local authorities (towns and municipalities, provinces) will also develop awareness
programmes with regard to renewables in time.
The Regions as well as the Finance FPS (federal level) provide information on the
conditions for granting support, on the types and levels of support available to consumers and
professionals for investments in renewable energies. A Federal-Regional working group seeks
to improve the coherence between tax deductions and regional premiums.
Federal:
http://economie.fgov.be/fr/consommateurs/Energie/index.jsp
http://koba.minfin.fgov.be/commande/form/commande1.php?clan=f
Flemish Region: http://www.energiesparen.be
Walloon Region: http://energie.wallonie.be
Brussels Capital Region: http://www.ibgebim.be/Templates/Home.aspx?langtype=2060
In general:
•
Publication obligation of the administration.
•
Obligation to make environment-related information, including information on factors
such as energy, available to the public.
Federal Authority:
Royal Decree of 3 April 2003 concerning the supply bills for electricity and gas.
Regions:
•
Obligation to state specific information on the cost of green certificates on the bills
Walloon
•
Region).
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Application of the EPB means for buildings with a surface of at least 1 000 m² that a
feasibility study on the potential installation of systems for the production of energy
from renewable sources is required, which in itself provides information for
promoters.
The Justice FPS is responsible for the publication of legal provisions in the Moniteur Belge.
The federal administrations also furnish information, in particular by means of their websites
and information campaigns.
In addition, every Region is responsible for the dissemination of information to the public
and to professionals on energy (Flemish Energy Agency in the Flemish Region; DirectorateGeneral for Regional Planning, Housing, Heritage and Energy in the Walloon Region;
Brussels Institute for Management of the Environment in the Brussels Capital Region).
The economic sectors and professionals are also informed by professional associations and
unions, of which several are subsidised by the authorities. The regulators and TSO/DSO also
provide information.
Fiscal supporting measures (solar thermal systems or solar panels, biomass boilers, green
loans, biofuels): by means of pamphlets (distributed free of charge by mail, by infoshops, at
industrial fairs and shows) and downloads from the website of the Finance FPS. Relevant
information is also contained in the explanatory documents to the tax return forms (updated
annually). Finally, a call centre was set up, and information campaigns are organised on a
regular basis.
Green certificates systems: websites of the regulatory bodies and the regional and federal
energy administrations.
Regional premiums for investments in renewable energies: by means of energy service points,
facilitators, permanent training and information centres, brochures and guides for
professionals engaged in the sector, specific associations (active in the field of renewable
energies in general, biogas, cogeneration, wind energy, sustainable construction, biomass,
biofuels, ....) and by information campaigns (radio transmissions, posters, distribution of
information brochures, online postings, etc.).
These instruments target different groups: individuals, installers, businesses, the agricultural
sector, etc.
The operators of the distribution systems for gas and electricity, as a mandatory public service
imposed by the authorities, are responsible for the administrative management of certain
‘energy premiums’; pertinent information is available on their websites.
The administrations responsible for energy and financial affairs, listed under lit. b).
The specific information resources offered by the authorities focus on:
•
Individuals;
•
professionals (businesses);
•
the service and industrial sectors;
•
the collective housing sector;
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associations.
However, the sectors are most often specifically informed by their sector-specific associations
(architects, notaries, local authorities, trade unions, petroleum federations, ....).
•
Permanent information centres: The Renewable Energy House in the Brussels Capital
Region, energy service points, facilitators, Kamp C, Centrum Duurzaam Bouwen
(centre for sustainable construction), DiffuSER, etc.;
•
websites with hotline services, FAQ, advisory services, personalised email responses,
event and training schedules, information on premiums, newsletters, newsletters, etc.;
•
media campaigns, presence at industrial fairs and shows, etc.;
•
educational documents aimed at schools,
•
publications (brochures, press reports, …) aimed at the general public;
•
support for various associations engaged in the promotion of renewable energies and
which provide education and advice, launch projects, free conferences, contact the
media, provide technical support for civic initiatives, do field work, conduct training
measures, etc.;
•
directories of installers (approved), etc.;
Furthermore, the three regions support the production of TV and radio programs such as the
‘la météo renouvable' (weather forecast for renewable energies), which forecasts the weekly
solar and wind energy potentials on the basis of the meteorological conditions of that week,
and lend media presence to them by means of information providers addressing the public at
large.
The Walloon Region has set up a system of 'Guichets de l'Energie' (energy service points).
The Walloon Region and the Brussels Capital Region bear the costs of the topic-specific
'facilitators' for each sector. Facilitators provide general guidance on existing technologies,
equipment suppliers, existing financial assistance and related administrative procedures and
on the advance dimensioning of the renewable energy generation systems. In addition, a
facilitator can provide a technical opinion in the various stadia of a renewable energy project,
such as reviewing feasibility studies, technical specifications, cost estimates, etc. A facilitator
also organises seminars and conducts site visits.
On its website, the Brussels Capital Region also offers tools such as information brochures,
vademecums, success stories, technical guides, model technical specifications, etc., addressed
at professionals. This Region also organises a competition, where professionals can win prefeasibility audits. In Brussels, the ‘House of Renewable Energies’ is open to the public. It is
geared towards the specific interests of the public at large and of the key players of the
building sector (architects, building contractors, …).
Planned measures (examples in the Brussels Capital Region:
•
increase information campaigns and technical assistance for consumers;
•
identify the key players to be involved and the ways and means of communication to
be privileged, in order to communicate efficiently with the sector;
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•
support for group-buy schemes for renewable energy generation systems;
•
exemplary role of public authority buildings in the field of energy consumption
(passive and very-low energy standards).
The websites of the Regions offer various simulators/calculators and/or technical notes for the
assessment of the benefits and cost effectiveness of systems and equipments using renewable
energy sources.
Publication of information on costs and energy efficiency is largely the responsibility of
equipment suppliers and private businesses installing such equipment.
Brussels Environment-IBGE intends to monitor systems using renewable energy sources in its
territory in order to be able to distribute such information among the inhabitants of Brussels.
In the context of the EPB regulation, tools for a pre-feasibility analysis of large-scale solar
investments are posted online, such as ‘PEB-on-web’, a new encoding software for forms
intended for architects and EPB advisers. Calculators are also available online to estimate the
costs and benefits of photovoltaic and CHP installations, to calculate their dimensions and to
search for available subsidies.
Furthermore, Directive 2009/28/ED will impose minimum levels for the use of renewable
energies in construction work after 2014. Guidelines will be made available in due time.
The various facilitators annually organise several seminaries on the rational use of energy in
buildings and on techniques for the integration of renewable energies aimed at developers and
architects.
The Flemish Region promotes a CO2-neutral balance for business premises by means of
conditions linked to the granting of subsidies for the development of business premises.
As regards the Walloon Region, mention is made of the principle of compensation for the
environmental impact of new industrial sites.
For the last three years, the Brussels Capital Region has been organising an annual
competition ‘Bâtiment exemplaire’ (Exemplary Building), where the construction of
particularly innovative and exemplary buildings, in particular with regard to energy
consumption, can demonstrated and subsidised. The buildings that have won the competition
will be demonstrated on the internet by means of a module that is currently being developed.
This module will provide access to the presentation, summary and technical brochures of the
buildings.
Existing programmes (examples):
In the different Regions, many websites provide information and tools to raise awareness
about renewable energies.
Awareness programmes are also launched by associations subsidised by the public
authorities: the weather forecast for renewable energies, the 'solariometer', 'Day of the Green
House', radio spots, billboard posters, magazines (‘Ma Ville, Notre Planète' — My Town, Our
Planet), animation for children (the 'Solar Kiosk', 'Frimo', 'With energy everyone gains'), etc.
In the Flemish Region a campaign was launched in 2008: ‘Green energy isn’t science
fiction’, to make information accessible to citizens and to support local authorities. A
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different campaign aims at 'climatic neighbourhoods', where groups of households (several
hundreds in 2009-2010) undertake to reduce their greenhouse gas emission by 8% for a period
of 6 months.
In the Walloon Region a campaign on the energy performance of buildings is under way.
In the Brussels Capital Region, IBGE organises a cycle of annual conferences (interactive
workshops) on energy for citizens. In the context of these specialist conferences visits on the
topic of renewable energies are also organised. The 'Ateliers de la rue Voot' (workshops of
Voot Road) organise information sessions on renewable energies, in particular on solar
energy, and offer participants who wish to do so the opportunity to build their own solar
panels (technical vademecum, agency).
Training programmes organised by various organisations:
•
The 'Espace Formation Petites et Moyennes Entreprises (EFPME)' (training centre for
small and medium-sized enterprises) offers a certificate training course for installers
of solar thermal panels (BruSolTherm) and photovoltaic panels. See also section 4.2.5.
•
The training courses 'Energy manager' and 'Energy adviser in the residential sector'
include a training module dedicated to the integration of renewable energies into
buildings.
Initiatives to be developed:
•
campaign aimed to support energy from renewable sources, part of the overall
energy/climate package;
•
adaptation/intensification of the services for citizens (private/public, paying/free, …)
to achieve enhanced efficiency;
•
leaflet presenting the differences between photovoltaic and thermal solar energy and
their respective advantages in the context of the solar kiosk;
•
awareness campaign in small-scale collective housing and schools, etc.
•
In the three regions, the local authorities and provinces develop their own
programmes, in particular for group purchases of renewable energy products, the
granting of premiums, information campaigns, etc.
Currently the Regions, who are competent for this matter, do not have any legislation in place
for a certification or qualification system as envisaged in Article 14 of the Directive.
Such measures are currently being prepared.
However, in the Walloon Region a system of official approval exists for installers of solar
thermal systems3 as well as acknowledged training for solar photovoltaic systems.
The regional administrations in charge of energy are responsible for setting up such
certification/qualification systems. The Regions may entrust the implementation of certain
certification/qualification aspects to specialist organisations.
The Flemish Region intends to continue the development of the QUEST association and its
quality label to define, in cooperation with the Flemish administration, the quality
requirements for installers and equipment.
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In the Walloon Region the approval of installers of solar thermal systems, by means of the
Soltherm programme, is in effect since 2004.
To obtain this approval, installers must:
•
undergo training in a centre recognised by the Region and successfully complete the
final skills assessment examination;
•
follow a supplementary technical training of 8 hours with a supplier;
•
be admitted to the profession in accordance with federal regulations on this matter.
Similar training is available for installers of solar photovoltaic systems. This training course
was developed in consultation with the Walloon administration and is recognized on the basis
of an agreement signed by the responsible officials of the training centres and the Walloon
administration.
In the Brussels Capital Region the training courses provided to solar system installers by
EFPME4 are recognized by the Walloon administration.
The Walloon and Brussels Regions publish on their websites lists of installers of solar
systems (thermal and photovoltaic) who have been approved and/or who have undergone
recognised training. In the Flemish Region, the QUEST association publishes the certification
procedures, conditions and recognitions on the website:
http://www.questforquality.be
The three Regions are represented in a working group (CONCERE installers) that seeks to
develop a national quality regulation/certification for installers. This working group compiles
a report describing the process to implement Article 14(3) in the different Regions.
In particular, the report will include the following:
•
the national action plan for the implementation of the Directive;
•
communication with the sector-specific associations, know-how centres, installers,
training centres and consumers
•
support by the know-how centres, sector-specific federations and know-how centres
for the development of a reference framework for the training;
•
European and Belgium benchmark regulations;
Espace Formation pour les Petites et Moyennes Entreprises (Training centre for small and
medium-sized enterprises).
•
planning, division of tasks and responsibilities..
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5. Conclusions
5.1 Technical framework
Italy
Different European directives apply to the energy sector from one side, as for example the
Legislative Decree of March 3, 2011, n. 28 Implementation of Directive 2009/28/EC on
promotion of energy from renewable sources, laying modifications and subsequently
repealing Directives 2001/77/EC and 2003/30/EC and Legislative Decree no. 387 of
29/12/2003 Implementation of Directive 2001/77/EC on the promotion of electricity produced
from renewable energy sources, and the building sector from the other, as the European
Directive 2002/91/EC to its national application through the Legislative Decree 192/05, the
Legislative Decree 311/06 and Presidential Decree 59/09. From a technical point of view the
Photovoltaic system shall comply with national Guide CEI 82-25Guide for design and
installation of photovoltaic (PV) systems connected to MV and LV networks. Connection
with the grid shall comply with rules established by AEEG. For BIPV products the
Department of Fire published in February 2012 a guide to the installation of photovoltaic
systems, with DC voltage not exceeding 1500 V, in activities subject to fire prevention
inspections.
Spain
Photovoltaic systems, and more specifically BIPV systems, are subjected to comply with
certain technical characteristics pointed out in the Spanish legislation as long as with adopted
European Directives as the Low Voltage Directive 2006/95/EC. Being a part of the envelope,
important characteristics for BIPV systems are established in the Spanish Technical Building
Code (TBC). The TBC also imposes the minimum contribution of PV energy sources of some
buildings depending on its characteristics and nature. The RD 1699/2011, in which the grid
connection of low power installations is regulated, follows the guidelines set by Directive
2004/8/CE promoting small installations in order to enhance the energy efficiency and
security of supply, as well as Directive 2009/28/CE, that encourages the use of renewable
energy sources. This RD repealed RD 1663/2000, for the connection of photovoltaic systems
to the Low Voltage grid. This Royal Decree sets the basis that PV installations must fulfil in
order to carry out the grid connection.
Greece
The Ministry of Environment, Energy and Climate Change in the context of promoting the
use of renewable energy, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and support green business
announced in 2009 the launch of a Special Development Program Photovoltaic until 10 kWp,
in Building facilities used for housing or housing micro enterprises (JMD Ministers of
Economy and Finance - Development - Environment, Physical Planning and Public Works
Gov. 1079/V/04.06.2009).
Belgium
Competences regarding energy policy are divided between the Federal Authority and the
Regions. The Federal Authority is competent for all matters which require uniform
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implementation on a national level due to their technical or economic indivisibility. In the
field of electricity generation, Belgium has set up a scheme of green certificates and
guaranteed minimum prices to support the development of electricity generation from
renewable sources.
5.2 Economical framework
Italy
The Feed-in tariff was provided for the first time in Italy in the year 2005. Successively other
revisions have been endorsed with more or less luck. At the moment there is the Vth version,
but is going to be repealed in a few months, due to the reach of the cap. At local level some
provinces support the investment as a loan. After the feed-in tariff PV investors can benefit
from the possibility of a tax deduction for investments into renewables and from net-metering
type of scheme for systems up to 200 kW. However, it remains unsecure whether these
measures will provide the Italian PV market from collapsing form the initial boom and going
to a flop. Many PV installers in Italy have already quitted the PV industry or are expected to
do so in the next 12 months. This is most evident within companies for whom PV had
represented the main source of business. Italy had been widely considered for some time as
one of the more profitable PV markets that could survive, independent of incentives. But any
post-incentive market in Italy is likely to be more complex than before. It is expected to be
based mainly upon rooftop systems involving self-consumption (in combination with
storage), other renewable types, and overall ‘energy management’. This will require
companies to develop new business models.
Spain
In 1998, Spain established the feed in tariff (FiT) as the way of providing economic support to
photovoltaics, among other renewable energies. Since the Royal Decree RD 2818/1998 of the
23rd of December, a FiT has always supported solar photovoltaic energy generation. The FiT
system has evolved over time and has been adapted to the development degree of the
technology. The well known negative balance of the Spanish electric system (around 24.000
M€) and the actual crisis situation in Spain, has led the Spanish government to promote a new
Royal Decree-Law, RDL 1/2012, in which the economic incentives given to renewable
energies are temporally cancelled. This measures, applicable to new installations only, aim to
end with the negative balance of the Spanish electric system by 2013.
Greece
The programme “PV on Roofs” has given incentives, in the form of feed in tariff for the
installation of small PV systems on buildings/households. The domestic consumer invests in
the system and makes a reasonable profit with short payback periods, while at the same time
feeds green energy into the county’s grid, helping towards the 20-20-20 target. So far the
industry exhibited remarkable resistance to the current financial crisis and is perhaps the only
sector of the economy with high growth rates.
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The “sun market” is now the largest employer in the area of green energy, with nearly 25000
direct and indirect full-time equivalent jobs and many domestic production plants of PV
panels and auxiliary equipment.
The Greek market of PV was the 6th largest in Europe and 10th worldwide for the past year.
This comes at no surprise given that from the initiation of the programme, investors/citizens
had benefited from a feed in tariff of 0.55€/kWh.
Unfortunately due to the current financial draught, mainly due to stringent bank financing and
not so hopeful financial data of the Grid corporation, the feed in tariff surged from this year to
0,25€/kWh, with descending prices for the coming years. This new feed in tariffs for PV
stations do not affect the already installed PV systems having contracts with past higher feed
in tariff.
Belgium
At the federal level, this system is flanked by a series of measures aimed in particular at the
deployment of offshore wind energy on the Belgium continental shelf (North Sea).
The Regions are also developing policy promoting green heating.
5.3 Authorization framework
Italy
The Legislative Decree No 387/2003, implementing Directive 2001/77/EC, sets out single
authorisation for the construction and operation of the same plants. The single authorisation
grants the right to construct and operate the plant in accordance with the approved plans and,
where necessary, with the declaration of public interest, necessity and urgency.
Article 12 of Legislative Decree No 387/2003 provides for a simplified procedure; this
simplified procedure applies to plants with a generation capacity below a thresholds value.
For plants which do not exceed the threshold the commencement notice requirement applies
in accordance with Presidential Decree No 380/2001. The Community Law of 2009 made the
Italian Government responsible for extending the use of commencement notices to renewable
energy plants with a capacity below 1 MW. Article 11 of Legislative Decree No 115/2008
introduced further simplification and rationalisation measures for photovoltaic systems fixed
to or integrated into building roofs on the same slope and with the same orientation as the
pitch and whose components do not alter the silhouette of the buildings themselves. For plants
installed in buildings or on sites protected by town-planning constraints or heritage or
countryside protection measures, the necessary local permits must be attached to the
commencement notice, for example the countryside protection or National Park Authority
clearance. Law No 99/2009 introduced simplification measures for operations on electrical
power lines.
Spain
The authorisation procedure for low power installations is endorsed in the RD 1699/2011. For
higher power installations, the authorisation requirements are set in RD 661/2007. We can
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differ two sorts of authorisation, one for grid connection and a second one for selfconsumption:
Greece
The only authority involved as of September 2010 is the local branch of the Public Power
Corporation (PPC) (or any other electricity retailer) with which the “compensation
agreement” is being signed. On each island there is a limit for residential systems according to
the grid capabilities.
There is no special framework for BIPV systems, as all building mounted PV systems are
considered under the same Law.
Recently, in August 2012, an MD dictates that there are no more Production Licences allowed
to be issued by the Regulatory Authority for Energy (RAE), regarding the installation of PVs
on buildings of more than 10kW and up to 100kW.
This implies that presently, the market is open ONLY for small PVs on buildings, up to 10
kW in power. At the same time, the Grid of Peloponese and Evia are saturated even for small
systems, hence no more PV applications are considered for these two areas.
Belgium
As far as regulatory measures are concerned, renewable energy projects must comply with
applicable environmental and urban planning provisions, in particular with authorization
requirements. However, for certain technologies specific, more flexible systems – based on
the size of the installation are envisaged. The competence for granting environmental permits
and urban planning permits rests with the Regions in relation to their territories, and with the
Federal Authority for marine spaces under Belgium competence. The Federal Authority also
grants production authorizations for electricity production in excess of 25 MW.
5.4 Qualification framework
Italy
The national regulations in force in this regard are principally found within the more general
context of Ministerial Decree No 37 of 22/01/2008, which replaced Law No 46/1990 (with
the exception of Articles 8, 14 and 16). The decree applies (Article 1) to systems serving
buildings, regardless of their intended use, and in particular: a) systems for electricity
production, transformation, transport, distribution and use and c) systems for heating, cooling,
air-conditioning and refrigeration of any type or nature and identifies (Article 3) the qualified
companies and (Article 4) technical and professional requirements necessary for carrying out
activities to install such systems. Legislative Decree of March 3, 2011, n. 28 Implementation
of Directive 2009/28/EC on promotion of energy from renewable sources, sets out requisites
at the art. 15 about installers qualification.
Spain
Concerning professional qualifications and aiming to comply with Directive 2009/28/EC
requirements, the Spanish Renewable Energy Action Plan 2011-2020 (NRAP, Sp. acronym
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PANER) explains that in the National Catalogue of Professional Qualifications eight new
skill-based professional qualifications are required recognising technicians for working as
RES installers, and, more specifically, two for working as PV installers (RD 1114/2007) and
two professional certificates associated to these qualifications, (RD 1381/2008 and RD
1215/2009), On the other hand, the Directive of Services 2006/123/CE is transposed in
Spanish Law 17/2009 of 23 November, on free access to services activities and exercising,
and Law 25/2009 of December 22, thus, amending various laws in order to adapt them to the
Law on free access to service activities and exercising. The RD 560/2010 of 7 May amends
some regulations on industrial safety to accord with those laws. The main changes are:
Greece
The application for Grid Connection is accompanied by a technical study, signed by an
Engineer with “appropriate qualification”. This practically means that in Greece, such studies
are signed by Electro-Mechanical Engineers. The same Engineers are usually responsible for
supervising installation works. The completed installation inspection is carried out by an
Engineer of the Local Grid Operator, which activates the connection.
The term “appropriate qualification” implies that there is no accreditation body yet in Greece,
assigned as responsible in order to accredit the Engineers involved in PV installations.
According to European Directive 2009/28/EC, article 14, paragraph 3, Member States shall
ensure that certification schemes or equivalent qualification schemes become or are available
by 31 December 2012 for installers of small-scale RES Systems.
The Ministry of Environment, Energy and Climate Change in the context of being consistent
with this Directive, is currently working on this issue.
Belgium
In order to support the establishment of units producing energy from renewable sources, the
Regions have initiated schemes to provide investment grants for companies and premiums for
individuals, while the Federal Authority has recourse to fiscal tools (tax deductions for
companies and tax reductions for individuals).
All the measures are supported by widespread information, training and awareness campaigns
to inform businesses as well as the general public and the various sector stakeholders.
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Acknowledgements
The BFIRST Consortium would like to acknowledge the financial support of the European
Commission under the ENERGY programme.
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