Many of the electric utilities in Germany have programmes of support for photovoltaics. This is certainly true in Bavaria where two utilities have launched new projects, which will not only increase awareness of solar energy and PV, but will also help to protect the special alpine environment.

Bayernnwerk's Sun at School programme aims to supply up to 500 schools with 1 kWp grid-connected PV systems. The PV generators will be installed and operated by the schools themselves. The 1 kWp kit, which includes a digital inverter, has been specially developed in association with Siemens Solar.

In the Bavarian Alps, increasing tourism has inevitably led to higher energy demand and increased pollution. Many Alpine cabins have been modernized and now incorporate diesel generating sets, but with associated drawbacks including increased noise and exhaust emissions.

Isar-Amperwerke Utility has made a commitment to improve the energy supply and environment of these alpine cabins by replacing the diesel generators with PV and other renewable energy sources. To accommodate this, the utility will provide a subsidy of up to 50% of the total price of the installation, with a minimum of 25% of the price being met by the cabin owner, and the remainder by local or national funds.

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