Solar energy in gated communities has gained prominence as an efficient and sustainable solution to reduce costs and increase property value.
In horizontal condominiums, for example, savings on the electricity bill can reach R$12 per residence per year, a number that attracts the attention of residents and building managers.
Furthermore, the installation of photovoltaic systems brings energy independence, low maintenance and environmental benefits.
In this article, you will understand how this technology works in condominiums, what the rules, advantages and costs involved are, and how to start transforming your energy reality today. Keep reading!
How does solar energy work in condominiums?
Solar energy in condominiums can be implemented in two main ways: individual generation or shared (collective) generation, each with its own characteristics and technical requirements.
In individual generation, each condominium unit (such as houses in horizontal condominiums) installs its own photovoltaic system on the roof of the residence.
The energy generated is consumed locally and the surplus is injected into the concessionaire's grid, generating credits to be deducted from future bills.
It is an ideal solution when there is adequate physical space for each resident to install their system autonomously.
In shared generation, more common in vertical condominiums or those with large common areas, solar s are installed in collective spaces, such as the roofs of blocks or garages.
The energy generated is used to supply common areas (reception, external lighting, elevators) or redistributed among the condominium owners according to a proportional distribution, previously defined and approved in an assembly.
Can you install solar energy in a condominium?
Yes, the installation of solar energy in condominiums is permitted and regulated by Normative Resolution No. 1.059/2023 da ANEEL, which deals with distributed generation.
However, for the installation to take place legally and efficiently, some criteria must be followed.
Firstly, it is essential that the project be approved at a condominium assembly, with a qualified quorum (normally two-thirds of the votes). The decision must be recorded in minutes, ensuring transparency and legal .
It is also necessary to prepare an appropriate technical project, signed by a qualified professional (electrical engineer or specialized company), which will be presented to the energy concessionaire for analysis and approval.
Furthermore, the condominium must clearly define the generation method (individual or shared), the cost and benefit sharing system, and those responsible for maintenance.
In vertical condominiums, the use of common areas for the installation of s may require adjustments to the internal regulations and a structural feasibility study.
Solar energy in a housing complex: is it worth it?
Yes, and more and more horizontal condominiums have invested in this solution. The main advantage is the possibility for each resident to install their own photovoltaic system, generating significant savings and greater control over energy consumption.
In an average home, for example, the savings on your electricity bill can reach R$12 per year.
In addition to the financial return, adopting solar energy increases the value of properties and brings a perception of modernity and environmental awareness to the condominium.
This has led many property managers and residents to prioritize this type of investment, in some cases even above traditionally valued items such as security and concierge services.
A recent survey found that condominiums are investing more in solar energy than in these other services, precisely because of all the economic advantages.
The model is also highly advantageous because it allows each residence to size its system according to its own demand, without directly depending on collective management.
This offers more freedom to the resident and makes the investment even more efficient and personalized.
What are the advantages of using solar energy in a gated community?
The adoption of solar energy in gated communities goes far beyond saving on electricity bills. It is a strategic solution that brings together economic, environmental and structural benefits, both for residents and for the condominium istration.
Significant reduction in energy bills
The generation of solar energy allows significant savings in electricity costs, both in the common areas of the condominium (reception, lighting, swimming pools, party rooms) and in the housing units, when there are individual systems.
With energy compensation via the distributor's credit system (net metering), the monthly bill value can be reduced by up to 95%, depending on consumption and installed capacity.
This reduction helps balance residents' budgets and also allows the condominium to invest in structural improvements with the saved resources.
Property appreciation
Properties that have photovoltaic systems installed are perceived as more modern, sustainable and economical. This perception increases their attractiveness in the real estate market.
In condominiums, this appreciation is collective: a shared solar generation structure adds value to the complex as a whole, positively influencing both sales and rental prices.
Furthermore, buyers and tenants are increasingly looking for developments aligned with sustainable practices, a competitive advantage that is becoming decisive.
Sustainability and environmental awareness
Adopting solar energy means significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions, as it is a clean and renewable source.
Each kilowatt-hour generated by the photovoltaic system avoids the emission of CO₂ that would be produced by conventional generation using fossil fuels.
This choice reinforces the condominium's environmental commitment, promoting a culture of responsibility among residents and directly contributing to the fight against climate change.
Long-term savings
Despite requiring an initial investment, photovoltaic systems are highly durable and offer a guaranteed financial return over the years.
On average, the payback occurs between 4 to 7 years, but the system continues to operate efficiently for more than two decades.
This means more than 20 years of savings and predictability in energy costs.
In condominiums, this stability is even more relevant, as it helps with budget planning and reduces the need for increases in condominium fees.
Energy independence
Having your own energy generation system provides autonomy in relation to concessionaires.
This protects the condominium against tariff fluctuations and possible energy crises, ensuring greater predictability in costs and reducing vulnerability to sudden adjustments.
In cases of condominiums with prepared infrastructure, it is possible to integrate backup systems (such as batteries), further increasing the energy independence and resilience of the project.
Low maintenance
Solar energy systems require little maintenance throughout their lifespan. With regular cleaning (usually every six months or every year) and preventive inspections carried out by qualified professionals, the system's performance remains stable.
Furthermore, the equipment used (such as photovoltaic modules and inverters) are designed to withstand the most diverse climatic conditions.
This technical robustness guarantees safety and reliability, with minimal operating costs for the condominium.
What are the rules for installing solar energy in a gated community?
The installation of solar energy in gated communities must follow specific technical and legal standards. The first step is approval at a condominium meeting, as provided for in the Civil Code and the condominium agreement.
For systems for collective use, such as supplying common areas, approval by a simple majority is generally required.
In shared generation projects between units, a qualified majority or unanimity may be required, depending on internal rules.
From a technical point of view, the system must be designed by a qualified professional (electrical engineer or specialized company) and ed with CREA.
The project must comply with the standards of ANEEL (Normative Resolution No. 1.059/2023) and the local concessionaire, which will assess the connection point, inverters, system sizing and the capacity of the electrical grid.
In addition, the condominium must be regularized, have a CNPJ and an energy bill in the name of the condominium to request approval from the distributor.
The required documentation may include ART, single-line project, descriptive report and technical inspection report.
Who can request installation?
The request may vary depending on the type of system (collective or individual):
- For collective systems (in common areas): the trustee is the legal representative responsible for conducting the process, from calling the meeting to g contracts and making requests to the dealership;
- For individual systems (in houses within the condominium): the resident himself can request the installation, as long as he follows the internal rules and obtains the necessary authorizations. that, in many cases, the project needs to be approved by the board or condominium istration to ensure that there are no impacts on the aesthetics or common structure;
- For shared generation between units: interested condominium owners can form a consortium or cooperative and sign a formal agreement, defining rules for the sharing, maintenance and distribution of the energy generated.
In all cases, it is recommended to have the assistance of a specialized company to ensure that the technical and legal procedures are carried out correctly.
How much does it cost to install solar energy in a gated community?
The cost of implementation can vary significantly depending on the size of the system, the type of installation (collective or individual), the complexity of the project and the desired generation capacity.
- For individual houses within the condominium: a residential photovoltaic system can vary between R$15 and R$40, depending on the installed power and average monthly consumption;
- For collective systems in common areas: the cost can exceed R$100, especially in condominiums with large facilities (swimming pools, party rooms, outdoor lighting, 24-hour doorman, etc.). However, the investment can be divided among the condominium owners, which reduces the individual financial impact;
- Shared generation between units: in this model, the value is proportional to each resident's share of consumption. It is also possible to finance the system through specific credit lines for solar energy, with extended and attractive rates.
It is also important to that the return on investment generally occurs between 4 and 7 years, and the system has a useful life of over 25 years, which guarantees significant savings over time.
How to install solar energy in a gated community?
Installing a solar energy system in a gated community requires technical planning, consensus among residents and compliance with legal requirements.
The process may vary depending on the type of condominium (vertical or horizontal) and the generation model adopted (individual or collective). Check out the main steps:
Feasibility analysis
It all starts with a technical assessment of the area available for installing solar s (such as house roofs, common areas or garage roofs).
At this stage, an engineer or specialized company analyzes factors such as solar radiation, shading, structural capacity and energy demand of the condominium.
Consumption study and system sizing
A survey of average electrical consumption is carried out, whether of an individual residence or common areas, to define the size of the photovoltaic system.
This study ensures that energy production is compatible with demand.
Technical design and approval
After dimensioning, an electrical project is prepared which must be approved by the condominium owners (in a meeting) and submitted to the local concessionaire for approval.
For collective systems, it is necessary to formalize a shared generation contract.
System acquisition and installation
Once the project has been approved, the purchase of equipment (photovoltaic modules, inverters, fixing structure, cabling, etc.) begins and installation by a specialized company.
It is essential to hire certified professionals to ensure safety and compliance with the standards of ANEEL and ABNT.
Approval and connection to the electrical grid
After installation, the system is inspected and connected to the dealership's network.
The excess energy generated is injected into the public grid and converted into energy credits, which can be used within up to 60 months.
Monitoring and maintenance
Continuous monitoring of system performance is essential to ensure efficiency.
Maintenance is simple, generally limited to cleaning the modules and periodic inspections, but must be carried out by trained personnel.
Learn About Canal Solar
O Canal Solar is a reference portal in the Brazilian photovoltaic sector. We work with the objective of informing, training and ing everyone who wants to understand or work in the solar energy market. Here we offer:
- Updated technical content about equipment, regulations and industry trends;
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- Expert advice for integrators, investors and consumers looking for personalized and secure solutions;
- news and analysis on regulation, market and technological innovations;
- Events and workshops which bring together the main players in the solar energy market in Brazil.
If you are looking for reliable and practical knowledge to make decisions or stand out in this sector, Canal Solar is the ideal partner.
Want to know Want more about solar energy? Access our complete guide and get all your questions answered!
Conclusion
Adopting solar energy in gated communities is a strategic decision that combines savings, sustainability and asset appreciation.
With adequate planning, specialized technical and engagement of condominium owners, it is possible to transform the energy consumption model and achieve electrical independence in a safe and efficient way.
The time to invest in renewable sources is now. And with the right information, the process becomes simpler and more advantageous.
count on the Canal Solar to clarify your doubts, plan your project and move forward with confidence towards your own energy generation.
