Standardized Glare Assessments Strengthen Compliance for PV Installations

Photovoltaic systems installed near roads and railway lines are subject to glare assessments to ensure that reflected sunlight does not compromise traffic safety. Until recently, the lack of uniform standards and clearly defined qualification requirements for glare assessment experts created uncertainty for project developers. This gap was addressed in early November, when the federal authority responsible for motorway infrastructure in Germany formally introduced binding criteria for photovoltaic glare analysis.

Faster Regulatory Reviews Through Standardization

Technical inspection providers with extensive experience in PV glare assessment can now align fully with the newly defined requirements. In 2025, one such provider underwent independent evaluation and received accreditation from the national accreditation body, exceeding minimum legal thresholds. As a result, regulatory authorities are able to review and approve compliant glare studies more efficiently.

How Photovoltaic Glare Analysis Works

For each planned solar installation, specialists calculate how sunlight reflects off photovoltaic modules and assess whether these reflections could result in unacceptable glare. The analysis incorporates precise location data, annual solar position modeling, and detailed technical specifications of the PV system. Direct reflections are calculated with high accuracy, while indirect reflections are evaluated using established simulation models.

A compliant glare assessment enables solar project operators to demonstrate that module orientation and system design do not pose risks to road or rail traffic. Meeting all regulatory requirements also supports faster approval timelines.

Solar Expansion Along Transport Infrastructure

Germany's renewable energy targets call for a significant expansion of photovoltaic capacity, with installed PV output expected to double to 215 gigawatts by 2030. Achieving this goal will require approximately 50,000 hectares of additional space.

To limit environmental impact, solar installations are increasingly planned along existing infrastructure such as highways and rail corridors. In these settings, ensuring traffic safety is critical. Previous international incidents have shown that unmanaged reflections from solar installations can interfere with transportation operations, underscoring the importance of standardized PV glare assessments in large-scale solar deployment.