Hundreds of Flemish companies and public institutions must install solar panels by the summer of next year or risk hefty fines. An estimated 2,500 commercial buildings and 1,300 public buildings, including schools and care facilities, must generate their own green electricity by June 30, 2025. This requirement, announced two years ago by Flemish Energy Minister Zuhal Demir (N-VA), affects buildings consuming over 1,000 megawatt-hours annually for companies and 250 megawatt-hours for public institutions. Installers warn that meeting the deadline could be challenging for more complex setups.

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The regulation may cause a surge in demand for solar panel installations, potentially creating bottlenecks in the industry. Companies failing to comply face fines of 400 euros per missing kilowatt peak, potentially amounting to millions of euros for large installations. Despite the high fines, businesses are still required to meet the green energy production mandate. The minimum requirement is to install 12.5 watt-peak per square meter of roof space by mid-next year, with future targets increasing in 2030 and 2035.

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Alternative solutions for businesses unable to install traditional solar panels include ground-mounted panels, panels on facades, carports, or even floating installations. However, these often require permits and additional time. Other options like wind turbines or biomass-powered cogeneration plants are less feasible due to lengthy permit procedures. There are limited exemptions or extensions available for this mandate.

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Key Points:

• Mandatory solar panel installation for companies and public institutions in Flanders by June 30, 2025.
• Potential fines for non-compliance can reach millions of euros.
• Installation bottlenecks are expected due to high demand.
• Various alternative energy solutions are available, but may require permits and longer implementation times.

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