Attention to the sun in Spanish households
rise of Energy self-consumption It completely changed the housing landscape in Spain. Thousands of rooftops are now equipped with photovoltaic panels, promising energy independence and financial savings. Industry estimates put the average investment at around 13,000 euros, with public incentives encouraging large-scale installations.
However, the actual profitability of these systems varies greatly depending on consumption, orientation of the house, and contract rates. Furthermore, fluctuations in electricity prices and surplus compensation directly affect the return on investment.
Sergio’s case: an investment that doesn’t pay off
Sergio, a single-family homeowner in northern Spain, decided to install one. solar power solar panels The company expects to significantly reduce its bills in 2024. During his intervention in the “Herrera en COPE” program, he explained that his experience was not as positive as he had hoped.
“After an investment of around 13,000 euros, I only saved 250 euros in a year,” he said. This data sparked intense debate and revealed a little-known reality of home consumption. This means that amortization may take much longer than expected.
The role of energy prices
The 2022 energy crisis has increased interest in solar energy, with prices exceeding 200 euros per megawatt hour. However, in 2025, the market exhibited strong fluctuations, with prices falling to almost zero euros at certain times, reducing the profitability of surplus disposal.
economist and writer Fernando Trias de Bes The program warned that this fluctuation was prolonging the depreciation of many domestic assets. “My prediction was seven to 20 years,” he admitted, but noted that self-consumption is only profitable in certain cases, such as electric cars or households with oil-fired heating.
Batteries and tax credits, a big challenge
One of the main factors contributing to higher installation costs is domestically produced batteries. “A decent battery costs between 3,000 and 5,000 euros and has a useful life of 10 to 15 years,” says Trias de Bes. Currently, tax deductions for home consumption are still limited, so it takes time to recover the initial investment.
Although minimal, maintenance must also be considered. Regular cleaning and inverter replacement are additional costs that affect overall profitability.
Real profitability of self-consumption in 2025
Electrical System Operator (REE) experts have confirmed that households with high daytime consumption can save between 30% and 50% through self-consumption, as long as the direct use of solar energy is optimized. However, for households with low consumption or without electric vehicles, the return on capital may exceed 15 years.
In this regard, homeowners should carefully analyze their spending habits before investing. We recommend that installation companies perform an energy study in advance to accurately estimate potential savings and profitability.
Will the investment be recovered in 2025?
Sergio’s case reflects a trend that is beginning to become visible in this field. The initial enthusiasm is now met with economic reality. However, solar energy This remains a long-term strategic bet, and the immediate impact on electricity bills is not necessarily what you would expect.
The key is planning and efficient use. Combining self-consumption with an electric vehicle or compatible heating system can accelerate payback. On the other hand, households with low consumption or without batteries may experience a much slower return.
Conclusion: A nuanced opportunity
Spain continues to be one of the countries with the highest potential for solar power in Europe, but according to Sergio’s experience: Profitability of solar panels It depends on both technology and economic conditions. For many, the environmental benefits are undeniable, but the savings don’t materialize as quickly as promised.
The future of self-consumption includes improved financial conditions, cheaper storage and more regulated use of energy. Only in this way can the promise of the sun shine in full force in Spanish homes.
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