The Napenergia Plusz Program, announced on December 4, 2023, offers substantial support for Hungarian homeowners seeking to invest in solar energy solutions. This initiative is part of Hungary’s broader strategy to enhance renewable energy adoption, promoting sustainability and energy independence. Below, we provide an in-depth analysis of the program, including eligibility criteria, funding specifics, and application requirements.
Program Launch Date
The pre-registration phase of the Napenergia Plusz Program begins on January 15, 2024. This initial step is crucial for applicants to secure their place in the program.
Total Funding Allocation
The program boasts a substantial budget of HUF 75.8 billion, ensuring extensive support for numerous projects across the country.
Eligibility Criteria
Eligible Participants
The program is open to:
- Private individuals owning residential properties (including partial ownership)
- Private individuals with usufruct rights
- Private individuals with leasing contracts
- Applicants must possess a Hungarian tax identification number
Ineligible Participants
The following conditions disqualify applicants:
- Outstanding tax or public debt exceeding 60 days (unless deferred or installment payments are arranged)
- Properties serving as headquarters, branches, or subsidiaries of enterprises
- Properties with any enterprise among the owners
Eligible Property Types
Applicants can apply with the following types of properties:
- Detached houses
- Semi-detached or terraced houses (each legally and energetically independent unit)
- Residential buildings with up to 6 apartments
Usage of Funds
The program funds are designated for the establishment of solar panel systems and energy storage solutions. Specific requirements include:
- Inverter size: minimum 4kW, maximum 5kW
- Battery size: minimum 7.5kWh, maximum 10kWh
- Total solar panel output must not exceed 120% of the inverter capacity (e.g., a 5kW inverter allows up to 6kWp solar panels)
Funding Details
Maximum Support Amount
The program provides up to HUF 5,000,000 per project, covering a maximum of 66% of the total costs. Therefore, the gross cost of the supported solar panel system and associated energy storage must not exceed HUF 7,575,000. A maximum of 15,160 projects can receive funding.
Mandatory Commitments
Participants must fulfill the following obligations:
- Provide own resources
- Submit an application
- Obtain a connection permit
- Sign a new contract with the service provider
Cost Breakdown and Eligible Expenses
Preparation, Administration, Planning, and Permitting
Up to 20% of the total project cost can be allocated to:
- Electricity provider interactions
- Preparation of connection plan documentation
- Measurement plans
- IT communication
- Metering point standardization
- Application administration
Equipment and Material Costs
Up to 70% of the total project cost can be allocated to:
- Solar panels
- Inverters, energy storage systems
- Auxiliary materials
- Installation tools, fire protection
- Mounting structures
- IT auxiliary devices
- Project signage
Labor Costs
Up to 30% of the total project cost can be allocated to:
- Installation work
Supported Solar Panel Systems
The program stipulates that the solar panel systems must be installed on buildings, excluding ground-mounted systems.
Solar Panels
Eligible solar panels must have a minimum product warranty of 10 years. In the Hungarian market, panels typically offer warranties of 12 years or more, with some extending up to 25 or 30 years.
Inverters
Only hybrid inverters are allowed due to the requirement for battery connection capability. Approved inverters must have a minimum product warranty of 5 years. The following manufacturers’ inverters are approved under the program:
- Deye
- FoxESS
- Fronius
- Growatt
- Huawei
- Hoymiles
- Saj
- Sofar
- SolarEdge
- SolaX
- Sungrow
- Sunways
Energy Storage Systems
Batteries must meet a minimum product warranty of 10 years, a standard met by all available storage options in the market.
Non-Reimbursable Costs
Certain expenses are not eligible for reimbursement, including:
- Self-executed construction work costs
- Products not approved by the Supporter
- Labor costs involving non-registered contractors or subcontractors
- Title deed costs
- Transportation and delivery fees
- Site occupancy fees and security costs
- Pallet rental fees, storage costs
- Temporary facilities and related costs
- Debris removal, container rental
- Organizational costs (tree removal, pruning, excavation)
- Reconstruction, renovation, expansion costs
- Financial service costs
- Roofing material costs
Conclusion
The Napenergia Plusz Program represents a significant opportunity for Hungarian homeowners to invest in renewable energy, offering generous support for solar panel systems and energy storage solutions. By adhering to the detailed requirements and guidelines outlined above, applicants can maximize their chances of receiving funding and contributing to Hungary’s green energy future.