After the installation work is completed, a PV system is commissioned. Learn everything you need to know about this topic here, from the requirements and necessary tests to the required documents.

First things first

• A PV system is commissioned when it first produces electricity and this electricity is consumed or stored outside the system.
• Before commissioning, all structural and technical requirements must be met and the system must be tested.
• You must report the solar system to the grid operator, the Federal Network Agency and the tax office.
• Commissioning before the meter has been replaced is not permitted and is punishable by law.
• Numerous documents such as site plans and test reports are required for commissioning.

What is the commissioning of a PV system? 

Commissioning a PV system is the process by which the system first produces electricity and then consumes or stores it. This marks the official start of operation of the system. Notification to the grid operator and the Federal Network Agency is required to secure the feed-in tariff.

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What are the requirements for commissioning a PV system?

Before you put the PV system into operation, the following requirements must be met:

• Complete assembly of the system: All PV modules and inverters must be installed and functional.
• Mains connection: The connection of the system to the power grid must be established and tested.
• Examination by a specialist: A qualified electrician must test the system in accordance with DIN VDE 0100-600 (AC side) and DIN EN 62446-1 (DC side).
• Security checks: All safety-relevant tests, such as checking the protective devices and the correct functioning of the technical components, must be carried out and documented.
• Plant documentation: The complete documentation of the system must be available.

What tests are carried out during commissioning?

The following tests ensure safety and functionality during commissioning: 

• Compliance with the application documents and planning documents: The facility will then be checked to see whether it complies with the submitted application and planning documents.
• Accessibility of relevant components: It is checked whether all components and systems relevant to the network operator are accessible.
• Installation of the measuring system: The measuring system must be installed in accordance with the technical specifications of the network operator.
• Start-up test of the PV meter: The PV meter is checked for correct functioning and the first meter reading is recorded.
• Testing of protective devices: The protective devices are checked for their activation in the event of power failures or other faults.
• Tests on the technical control devices: Various tests are carried out on the technical control devices to ensure their functionality. 

The results of these tests are documented and confirmed with the installer's signature. A commissioning report is created to complete commissioning.

What documents and paperwork are required for commissioning?

The following documents and records demonstrate operational readiness and compliance with all technical and legal requirements: 

Who accepts PV systems? Is commissioning possible without a grid operator? 

Commissioning is carried out by a qualified electrician and generally requires the presence of the grid operator. Under certain circumstances, commissioning can also be carried out without the grid operator if the electrician is appropriately authorized.

When can I switch on my PV system? 

You may switch on your PV system after commissioning. This includes complete installation and testing of the system by a qualified electrician. You must also obtain approval from the grid operator beforehand. Switching on the PV system before this time may result in legal consequences.

Is commissioning permitted before the meter is replaced? Am I at risk of a penalty? 

Commissioning before the meter has been replaced is not permitted and will be prosecuted. Offenses may result in fines or even imprisonment of up to five years.

What legal significance does the commissioning of photovoltaics have for me?

Commissioning marks the start of the feed-in tariff and entails legal obligations. First, you must register the PV system with the Federal Network Agency or the Market Data Register. Second, you must register the PV system with the tax office. 

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Do I have to report the commissioning of the PV system to the tax office?

In principle, operating a PV system is considered a commercial activity, so you must report the PV system to the tax office. However, photovoltaic systems on single-family homes up to 30 kWp have been exempt from income and trade tax since 2022. Furthermore, sales tax on self-consumption is waived. This tax exemption significantly simplifies bureaucracy for private operators.

Where else do I have to register the PV system?

Before installation begins, you must register the PV system with the grid operator, who will conduct a grid compatibility check. This is generally not a problem for single-family homes.

After commissioning your PV system, you must register it with the Federal Network Agency. To receive the feed-in tariff, you must submit the commissioning report and the registration in the Market Data Register to the grid operator. You have 30 days after commissioning to do this.

Checklist for commissioning photovoltaics

Here you will find a checklist for commissioning a PV system:

• Checking compliance with the registration documents and existing planning documents
• Accessibility of the components of the photovoltaic system that are relevant for the grid operator
• Construction of the measuring device according to the technical specifications of the network operator
• Meter start-up test
• Logging the initial meter reading
• Testing for activation of protective devices, e.g., due to power failure
• Testing of the technical control system