Rising demand

What it takes to insure a PV system

Insurance for photovoltaic systems is also becoming increasingly important in Austria.(Bild: Pressefoto Scharinger/Daniel Scharinger)

Heat pumps and pellet heating systems have replaced many oil-powered solutions. More and more people are relying on photovoltaic systems to generate their own electricity - on roofs, balconies or even in the garden. This boom is also increasing the demand for insurance. Find out what it takes here.

The fear of a blackout, high subsidies and the energy transition towards green energy sources are fueling the demand for private photovoltaic systems, which are preferably installed on house roofs.

But what about protection? Hail, storms and indirect lightning damage can put solar modules out of action. Animal bites can pose a threat to installations close to the ground.

Kathrin Kühtreiber-Leitner, Managing Director of Oberösterreichische Versicherung.(Bild: Barbara Kneidinger)

Protecting yourself against this risk has been standard practice in Germany for many years. "We have an online product there with which we are very successful," reveals Kathrin Kühtreiber-Leitner, CEO of Oberösterreichische Versicherung. In Germany, the insurer has been active in the photovoltaic sector since the early 2000s. Kühtreiber-Leitner speaks of a "pioneering role".

What requirements must be met in order to take out insurance? The photovoltaic system must be installed by an authorized company. In the case of self-assembly, whether complete or partial, the system must be approved by a licensed company - including a test report. In the case of large systems, parts of the system also need a check.