What You Need to Know About Solar Panels

Do you already have solar panels, or are you thinking about installing them? If so, you're probably focused on the savings they can bring to your energy bill. However, there are several important factors to consider as well—from financial incentives to the phase-out of the net metering scheme.
More and more households are choosing solar panels. That makes sense: generating your own renewable energy is good for the environment and can help reduce your energy costs. Still, there are several aspects that are often overlooked. What should you keep in mind if you have solar panels or are planning to install them?

Financial Incentives Can Help

Homeowners who want to make their property more energy-efficient may be eligible for various financial support schemes. One example is the Energy Saving Loan (Energiebespaarlening), which allows you to borrow money under favorable conditions for energy-saving measures such as solar panels.
In addition, a VAT exemption applies to solar panels installed on or near a residential property. This means you do not have to pay VAT on the purchase and installation of the panels. Please note that this exemption does not apply to integrated solar panels that also serve as roofing materials.

The Net Metering Scheme Is Ending (Salderingsregeling)

An important change for solar panel owners is the end of the Dutch net metering scheme (salderingsregeling). From January 1, 2027, electricity that you feed back into the grid can no longer be offset against your own electricity consumption. You will still receive compensation from your energy supplier for the electricity you return to the grid.
As a result, it becomes increasingly beneficial to use as much of your self-generated electricity as possible directly in your home.

Consider the Risks

Solar panels have an average lifespan of around 25 years. During that time, they may be exposed to various types of damage, such as storms, heavy snowfall, hail, or prolonged heat. Not all insurers use the same definitions or policy conditions regarding extreme weather events.
Therefore, it is important to carefully review how damage to solar panels is covered under your insurance policy. This can help prevent unpleasant surprises if damage occurs.

Fire and Theft: Don't Underestimate the Risks

Fire and theft are also important risks to consider. Proper installation plays a crucial role in minimizing these risks. For this reason, it is advisable to have solar panels installed by a certified and qualified installation company.
Many insurers impose specific installation requirements. If the panels are not installed according to applicable standards, this could affect your eligibility for compensation in the event of a claim.

Building Insurance or Contents Insurance? We can help!

In practice, insuring solar panels is sometimes less straightforward than expected. For owner-occupied homes, permanently mounted solar panels are often covered under the building insurance policy (opstalverzekering). If the panels are attached in a different way, different rules may apply.
Some insurers even classify solar panels as part of the contents insurance (inboedelverzekering). This is particularly relevant for tenants, who should carefully check how their solar panels are insured and which coverage applies.

Personal Advice

Do you already have solar panels, or are you planning to install them? Be sure to let us know. We can advise you on the most suitable insurance coverage for your solar panels and assess whether your insured amount is sufficient.
That way, you can be confident that you are properly protected at all times.

Do you have any questions? Feel free to contact us.