Renewable micro-installations - what are they and why should they be installed?

Renewable micro-installations – Definition and Principles of Operation

According to the Polish Act on Renewable Energy Sources (RES), a microinstallation is a renewable energy source installation with a total installed electric capacity not exceeding 50 kW, connected to a power grid with a nominal voltage below 110 kV, or with a combined heat capacity not exceeding 150 kW, where the total installed electric capacity does not exceed 50 kW. Its primary goal is to supply energy to households, small businesses, or farms, which helps reduce costs while supporting environmental protection.

The principle of operation depends on the selected type of renewable energy source. In the case of photovoltaic installations, solar panels convert solar energy into electricity through semiconductor cells. Micro wind installations have turbines that transform wind kinetic energy into electrical energy. Heat pumps extract heat from the ground, water, or air.

Importantly, RES microinstallations allow users not only to supply energy to their properties but also to feed excess energy back into the power grid.

Benefits of Installing RES Microinstallations

Investing in RES microinstallations offers numerous financial and environmental benefits. One of the key advantages is reducing energy costs. Producing energy independently helps to avoid rising prices and market fluctuations. Additionally, various grants and funding options are available, including government, regional, or European Union subsidies. Households implementing such solutions may also benefit from thermal modernization tax relief.

RES microinstallations increase the attractiveness and value of properties—a critical factor for future sales. Such buildings are more energy-efficient, cost-effective to maintain, and provide comfort and security to users, ensuring stable energy supply. This is especially valuable in areas prone to power outages. Another undeniable benefit is the reduction of emissions, positively impacting the environment and air quality, particularly in the immediate ecosystem.

Types of RES Microinstallations and Their Uses

RES microinstallations are divided into several main categories based on the energy source utilized. Each has specific methods for electricity generation, applications, and advantages.

• Photovoltaic installations are among the most commonly chosen. Using solar panels, they convert solar radiation into electricity. This solution is advantageous for households, small businesses, and farmers looking to lower energy costs. Photovoltaic systems can be installed either on the ground or on rooftops.

• Wind turbines are ideal for regions with favorable wind conditions, primarily in rural areas with ample space for installation. They can be used independently or combined with other RES microinstallations, such as photovoltaics.

• Other types include heat pumps, biomass, biogas systems, and micro-hydropower plants. Heat pumps use energy from air, water, or ground to heat buildings and utility water, increasingly replacing traditional heating systems. Biomass (e.g., wood, straw, plant waste) and biogas (produced from organic waste) can generate heat and electricity, especially beneficial for farms with their own resources. Micro-hydropower plants, though rare in Poland, utilize the energy of flowing water, suitable for areas with access to appropriate watercourses.

Steps to Install RES Microinstallations

The first step in investing in RES microinstallations is to conduct a detailed energy needs analysis. This audit helps determine the most suitable type of installation for a household or farm. Based on the analysis, the appropriate technology and supplier can be selected. While RES microinstallations up to 50 kW do not require a building permit, they must be reported to the local energy network operator. Once necessary approvals are obtained, the installation can be mounted following technical guidelines. After completion, the system is connected to the local power grid. Finally, applications for grants or tax reliefs can be submitted.

RES Microinstallations and Their Environmental Impact

RES microinstallations significantly impact environmental protection, primarily through the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.

Energy production from traditional fossil fuels like coal, natural gas, or oil involves high carbon dioxide emissions. RES microinstallations, such as photovoltaic systems or wind turbines, eliminate CO2 emissions during energy generation. Fossil fuel-based energy production also emits other greenhouse gases, such as methane and nitrous oxide. Thus, RES microinstallations reduce harmful air pollutants like sulfur oxides, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5), which contribute to smog. They are zero-emission solutions that improve air quality in their installation areas.

The greater the proportion of energy generated from renewable sources, the lower the demand for energy from conventional fuels. This, in turn, reduces emissions throughout the chain—from extraction to transport and combustion of fossil fuels.

RES microinstallations align with global goals of mitigating human impact on the climate, offering numerous benefits not only to individual users but also to entire ecosystems. Reducing greenhouse gases, improving air quality, enhancing user comfort, and lowering costs are just some of their key advantages.