Filenews 4 November 2024
Submission of applications for "Photovoltaics for All" resumes until the final submission of 3,000 applications.
Specifically, the Management Committee of the Renewable Energy Sources (RES) and Energy Saving Fund announces the opening of applications in the context of the re-announcement of Category A3: Photovoltaics for all of the "Subsidy Scheme to encourage the use of RES and EE in homes 2024-25".
The re-announcement of Category A3 will remain open until the final submission of 3,000 applications.
It is recalled that the main objective of Category A3: "Photovoltaics for All" is to encourage non-vulnerable households, but which do not have the initial capital, to install a photovoltaic system in their homes, to utilize clean solar energy and reduce their electricity bills and environmental footprint, benefits that contribute to the efforts to transition to a more sustainable Cyprus. To this end, the Scheme provides that for the beneficiaries of "Photovoltaics for All", the cost of the investment is repaid by the RES and EE Fund and is then returned by the applicant to the Fund through installments that are incorporated in his electricity bill.
With the re-announcement of Category A3: Photovoltaics for All for another 3,000 applications, and following a Decision of the Minister of Energy, Commerce and Industry, limited but significant amendments have been introduced, in order to enhance the effectiveness of the measure and expand access to more households.
Summary:
- The consumption limit of 6,000 kWh/year that was in force at the time of the first call for tenders is abolished.
- The grant amount is reduced to €500 (from €1,000) and the "repayment amount" that will be returned by the applicant to the RES and EX Fund is increased to €4,500 (from €4,000). This creates a substantial disincentive for those who have the resources to finance the investment with their own funds, who could be included in Category A1 (sponsorship of €1,500), and ensures that the budget of "Photovoltaics for All" will be used by those who have a real need to be included in this Category.
- Those who have a Purchase and Sale Document submitted to the Department of Lands and Surveys are added to the beneficiaries of Category A3, although they are not yet officially registered owners of the property.
It is reminded that in addition to Category A3: Photovoltaics for All, the following funding categories are included in the overall Subsidy Scheme, which remain in force:
- Category A1: Photovoltaics – General Category with sponsorship of €375 per kW and maximum grant amount of €1.500 (4kW) – 50% increase for mountainous areas.
- Category A2: Photovoltaic – Vulnerable Households with a grant of €1.250 per kW and a maximum grant amount of €6.250 (5kW).
- Category B1: Roof Thermal Insulation – General Category with 50% sponsorship and maximum grant amount of €2.500 and/or €25,00 per sq.m. – 50% increase for mountainous areas.
- Category B2: Roof Thermal Insulation – Vulnerable Households with 75% sponsorship and maximum grant amount of €3.750 or €37,50 per sq.m.
Applications can only be submitted electronically, through the website of the RES and EE Fund. Applications are submitted before the implementation of investments and can be submitted in Greek or English.
Interested parties are encouraged to read carefully the provisions of the Subsidy Schemes before applying. A thorough understanding of the conditions for participation is important, to ensure that they can take advantage of the funding opportunities offered.
