Bonn Launches Shared Solar Energy Program for Multi-Unit Buildings

Bonn has introduced a new initiative to expand access to solar energy through a shared building supply model, giving more residents the ability to use locally generated power without upfront investment. This approach is designed to make renewable energy more accessible in urban settings with large apartment complexes and community housing.

The program allows property owners, housing cooperatives, and management companies to lease rooftop space for rooftop PV systems at no cost to the property. Residents, including tenants and owners, can then subscribe to receive shared renewable power directly from their building’s solar panels, reducing electricity costs while contributing to a cleaner energy future.

Bonn has an extensive stock of multi-family housing with large, uniform roof areas—ideal for solar power generation. Previous models for tenant-supplied electricity struggled due to complex regulatory and administrative requirements. This new framework simplifies the process, making it easier to deliver on-site solar energy directly to building residents.

How the Program Works

Implementation happens in two phases. First, building owners decide whether to lease their rooftop and allow the installation of a photovoltaic (PV) system. Second, residents opt-in individually to purchase electricity generated by that system. The arrangement is considered viable when at least 60% of the building’s total electricity demand is covered by solar supply contracts.

Once participation levels are met, a long-term rooftop lease agreement—typically lasting 20 years—is signed. The same period applies to a guaranteed electricity price (e.g., 25 euro cents per kilowatt-hour) for participating residents. Advanced metering technology records consumption in 15-minute intervals, ensuring transparency and accuracy. Tenants remain free to choose their regular electricity provider for any additional supply beyond the solar portion. All costs for system installation, operation, and maintenance are handled by the program’s energy service provider.

Expanding Access to Clean, Affordable Power

This model represents a significant step forward in bringing affordable renewable energy to renters. It enables households in multi-unit buildings to benefit not only from small balcony plug-in units but also from cost-effective rooftop PV systems, helping reduce monthly power bills while improving fairness in the energy transition.

Bonn has more than 21,000 multi-family buildings—over one-third of its total housing stock—offering substantial untapped capacity for local solar energy production. Initial pilot projects have already demonstrated success, including a flat-roof PV system rated at 30 kilowatts peak capacity installed on a 15-unit residential property. All tenants in that building now receive clean, reliable power generated directly from their own rooftop, achieving 100% participation.