Save on taxes with a photovoltaic system? Cantonal differences must be taken into account.
The energy transition is in full swing, and more and more people are interested in renewable energies. In the canton of St. Gallen, one of the most progressive regions in Switzerland regarding sustainable energy, photovoltaic systems for private households are particularly attractive. This article provides an in-depth insight into the world of photovoltaics, specifically tailored to the needs and conditions in the canton of St. Gallen.

Advantages of a photovoltaic system
Environmentally friendly
Photovoltaic systems generate electricity by converting sunlight without releasing harmful emissions. This is a decisive advantage over fossil fuels, which emit CO2 and other greenhouse gases during the combustion process.
Cost-efficient
After the initial investment, the ongoing costs for operating a photovoltaic system are minimal. In addition, you can receive remuneration by feeding surplus electricity into the grid, which helps to amortize the initial investment more quickly.
Independence
With a photovoltaic system, you can generate your own energy and thus become less dependent on external energy suppliers. This is particularly advantageous in times of rising energy prices.
Increase in property value
A modern, efficient photovoltaic system can increase the value of your property and make it more attractive to potential buyers.
Types of photovoltaic modules, adapted to roof shapes
Monocrystalline modules
These modules consist of individual, high-purity silicon crystals and offer the highest efficiency among the various types. However, they are also the most expensive and are best suited for roofs with limited space.
Polycrystalline modules
In contrast to monocrystalline modules, polycrystalline modules consist of several silicon crystals. They are less efficient, but also less expensive, and are well suited for roofs with a large area.
Thin-film modules
These modules are flexible and can adapt to various roof shapes. However, they are less efficient than crystalline modules and are therefore less commonly used in private households.
Förderungen für Photovoltaikanlagen im Kanton St. Gallen
One-off investment contributions
The canton of St. Gallen offers one-off investment contributions that can cover up to 30% of the acquisition costs. These contributions are usually subject to certain conditions, such as the size of the system or the type of modules used.
Tax deductions
In addition to direct investment contributions, the costs for purchasing and installing a photovoltaic system can also be claimed for tax purposes. This can lead to significant tax savings and shorten the payback period of the system.
Feed-in remuneration for private photovoltaic systems in the canton of St. Gallen
In the canton of St. Gallen, electricity fed in from photovoltaic systems is remunerated. The exact amount of remuneration can vary but is usually around 0.20 CHF per kWh. This provides an additional source of income and makes the investment in a photovoltaic system even more attractive.
Contract models
There are various contract models for feed-in remuneration that differ in term and conditions. It is important to carefully select the model that suits you.
Net Metering
Some energy suppliers also offer net metering models, in which the electricity fed in is directly offset against the electricity consumed. This can be financially advantageous, especially in the summer months when the system produces a lot of electricity.
Which heating and hot water systems are compatible with a photovoltaic system and which are not
Fits
Heat pumps
Heat pumps are very efficient and can be combined excellently with a photovoltaic system. The energy generated by the photovoltaic system can be used directly for the operation of the heat pump, which reduces operating costs.
Electric boiler
Electric water heaters can also be well combined with photovoltaic systems. The generated electricity can be used for hot water preparation, which also leads to a reduction in operating costs.
Does not fit
Gas and oil heating systems
These heating systems are not operated electrically and therefore cannot be efficiently combined with a photovoltaic system.
District heating
District heating is generally not compatible with photovoltaic systems either, as it is based on central heat generation.
Advantages and disadvantages of a battery storage system
Advantages
Independence
With a battery storage system, you can store surplus electricity and use it later, further increasing your independence from external energy suppliers.
Efficiency
By storing surplus electricity, you can use your photovoltaic system more efficiently and consume more of the generated energy yourself.
Disadvantages
Costs
Purchasing a battery storage system can be expensive and may extend the payback period of the entire installation.
Lifespan
The lifespan of battery storage is limited and they need to be replaced after a few years, which causes additional costs.
Subsidies for battery storage in the canton of St. Gallen
The canton of St. Gallen also offers subsidies for the purchase of battery storage systems. These can cover up to 20% of the acquisition costs and are generally linked to certain technical requirements.
Worauf sollte bei der Wahl des Solateurs geachtet werden?
Certificates and qualifications
It is important to choose a qualified and certified solar installer for the installation of your photovoltaic system. Pay attention to appropriate certificates and qualifications to ensure that the work is carried out professionally.
References
Ask for references and completed projects to get an idea of the quality of the work done by the solar installer.
Price-performance ratio
A cheap offer is not always the best. Pay attention to the price-performance ratio and compare various offers to make the best decision.
Conclusion
Investing in a photovoltaic system is a long-term decision that should be carefully considered. The canton of St. Gallen offers numerous subsidy options and an attractive feed-in remuneration, making the acquisition of a photovoltaic system financially appealing. With proper planning and a qualified solar installer by your side, you can benefit from the many advantages of a photovoltaic system and contribute to the energy transition.
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