FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
- All
- Consumption and its estimation
- Energy efficiency
- Energy savings
- Equipment and technologies
- Financing
- Installation process
- Investment
- Maintenance and warranties
- Property managers
- Real estate developers
- Self-consumption
- Site and property suitability
- Solution reliability
- Subsidies, grants, and permitting
1. Do the proposed solutions come with a performance guarantee?
Yes, all the equipment and systems we install come with a manufacturer’s warranty, and we also provide free maintenance for the first two years to ensure everything is working properly.
2. How can I be sure the solution offered will actually save me money?
Before implementing any solution, we conduct a detailed analysis of your energy consumption and provide an accurate estimate of the expected savings based on real data.
3. What happens if the installation doesn’t perform as expected?
If the system underperforms, we investigate the cause and make the necessary adjustments at no additional cost during the warranty period.
4. Do solar panels lose efficiency over time?
Yes, but very slowly. Photovoltaic panels lose around 0.5% efficiency per year, meaning that after 25 years, they still operate at over 85% of their original capacity.
5. Are batteries a reliable long-term solution?
It depends on the type of battery and how it’s used. Lithium batteries typically last between 10 and 15 years, while lead-acid batteries tend to have shorter lifespans.
6. What happens if there’s a power outage?
If you have batteries or a backup system, you’ll be able to use the stored energy. However, if your system is grid-connected without storage, it will stop generating for safety reasons.
7. Can inverters fail over time?
Yes, like any electronic device, inverters have a limited lifespan—usually between 10 and 15 years—but they require minimal maintenance and can be replaced without altering the rest of the system.
8. Does the installation require continuous maintenance?
Maintenance is minimal. We recommend regular check-ups and occasional cleaning of the solar panels to ensure maximum performance.
9. How can I monitor the performance of my installation?
All our systems include an online monitoring platform that lets you see in real-time how much energy you’re generating and consuming.
10. What if my self-consumption system generates less energy than expected?
We analyze the situation to identify the cause, which could be due to dirt on the panels, unexpected shading, or an inverter issue. If it’s a technical problem covered by the warranty, we’ll resolve it at no additional cost.
1. If I’ve already implemented energy efficiency measures, what more can you offer?
We can identify additional saving opportunities that may have gone unnoticed, such as adjustments to contracted power or improvements in how your energy consumption is distributed.
2. How can I know if my company is already energy-efficient enough?
By carefully analyzing your consumption (how much, when, and in which processes) and your energy supply contracts to see if there are still optimization opportunities left unexploited.
3. Can companies with optimized consumption still reduce costs?
Yes, because the energy market is constantly changing, and there are always new technologies and strategies that can further enhance efficiency.
4. If I already have solar panels, is there anything else I can do to improve efficiency?
Yes, we can optimize energy storage management, adjust contracted power, and improve grid integration to maximize performance. There may also be opportunities in reactive power management or reducing active power consumption.
5. Why should I consider this audit if my energy costs are already under control?
Because we can identify operational improvements and anticipate changes in regulations or electricity prices.
6. What areas in a company often still have room for improvement, even if it’s already efficient?
HVAC systems, lighting, production machinery, potential for energy generation and storage, contracted power and tariffs, or building insulation (facades and roofs).
7. How often should my company’s energy efficiency be reviewed?
It’s recommended at least every two to three years due to technological advances, although regulatory requirements or changes in the market or consumption patterns may warrant more frequent reviews.
8. Does optimizing energy give me any competitive advantage in my industry?
Yes, it reduces production costs and increases operational margins, improves your company’s economic and environmental sustainability, helps protect the planet, and ensures compliance with environmental regulations.
1. I’m a developer working on a new real estate project. What space do I need to set aside for a solar PV system to supply energy to my development?
The required space depends on the power capacity you want to install. To estimate that, we need to evaluate the load profile, which will vary depending on the type of use (residential, industrial, or commercial). We can estimate consumption and hourly profiles based on the intended activity, and from there calculate the necessary power and space. From a minimum required area, you can already start saving and make the installation profitable, even if you don’t have the full space you would ideally want. Contact us and we’ll be happy to assess your case.
2. I own a set of industrial buildings that I rent out with all services included, including electricity. Can I reduce electricity costs by installing a solar self-consumption system? Can I sell surplus energy to third parties?
A well-designed solar self-consumption system always reduces electricity bills because, during sunlight hours, the system directly powers the building’s energy use. What’s more, it fixes the cost per kWh for that portion of consumption, making you less dependent on market fluctuations. Once the system is paid off, the energy is practically free since maintenance costs are very low.
This opens up new opportunities: you could offer your tenants preferential electricity rates, or retain the price margin to improve your business’s profitability. Additionally, installing solar panels will improve the buildings’ energy ratings and, therefore, their value.
As for selling surplus energy to third parties, you can do so without being an energy retailer, as long as they’re located within a 2 km radius. If you’re interested, we can set up a smart solar community for you.
1. How can I request my consumption data from my electricity company?
By law, your consumption data belongs to you, so you have the right to request it from your distribution company. Many of them require you to register on their platform, and by following a few steps, you’ll be able to request the data. Another option is to authorize us: with your CUPS number (found on your bill) and a photo of the front and back of the bill holder’s ID, we can request the data on your behalf.
2. How should I interpret the data I’ve received?
The file usually comes in CSV format, which you can open in Excel. Be sure to set each “;” as a column separator. Once imported, you can analyze and work with it like any other data table. You’ll be able to generate load curves and view your hourly consumption profiles. Alternatively, we can download the data for you (with your permission) and carry out a study to offer you the best solution for optimizing your investment.
3. From that consumption, how can I know what type of use each kWh corresponds to?
The data provided by your utility company won’t be broken down by type of use, but through a site visit and targeted questions, we can estimate those curves based on our 10+ years of experience in the field. Another option is to temporarily install a power analyzer to measure and accurately determine the consumption breakdown.
4. My facility is new or I’ve just moved to a new location and don’t have historical consumption data — how can I know what’s best for me?
If the facility and its supply point are new, there’s no historical data to request. However, we can estimate a load profile based on the building type, climate zone, lighting, and intended use. It helps if you can provide historical data from your previous location or, if the new site has a consumption history, sharing it with us would allow us to make more accurate estimates — especially when matched with the previous activity type at that location.
5. I currently have some electricity consumption, but I plan to implement other energy efficiency measures that I expect will reduce it. How do I know what power I should install or contract?
We would simulate your new load profile based on the measures you plan to implement. We can carry out that study for you so you can evaluate all your options.
6. I currently have some consumption, but I’m planning to electrify my heating/cooling or vehicle fleet. How do I know what power I need to install?
Same as before — we would simulate the new load profile based on your planned changes. We can perform this study for you to help you make the best decision.
7. What happens if I have energy surpluses?
You can either sell them on the market or your electricity retailer can compensate them at a pre-agreed rate on your bill. Some retailers offer the option to offset them against bills for other supply points or carry them over to future bills. If your surplus is very large (for example, because your consumption profile has changed since your installation was designed), you might consider switching to a smart solar community model. Contact us and we’ll study your case.
8. Which retailer offers the best compensation for energy surpluses?
That’s something that needs to be monitored regularly. All retailers launch special and limited-time offers that you can take advantage of. Generally, independent energy companies tend to offer better compensation rates.
1. I’m renting and don’t want to (or the owners don’t allow me to) install solar panels on my roof. Is there any way I can still benefit from solar self-consumption?
Yes, there is. You can join a smart solar community located within 2 km of your location. There’s no commitment period, no construction work involved, and no need to invest in the plant. You’ll just pay a one-time joining fee and then a monthly membership fee. While the savings might be slightly lower than with your own installation, you’ll still enjoy the benefits of generating part of the energy you consume.
If you share your location, we can check whether there’s a smart solar community available in your area. If not, and we detect interest from other neighbors (or you help us find them), we can set one up for your community.
2. I have a roof suitable for solar installation, but my consumption is much lower than what I could generate. Can I make the most of the rest of the roof or the extra energy?
Absolutely. You have several options. You could store the excess energy in a battery or a hot water tank for later use. You could also sell it to the market, store it in a virtual battery (if your electricity retailer offers this), install EV charging stations, or even use your roof to set up a smart solar community in your area. You could lease the space or sell the energy directly to your neighbors. If you’d like, we can manage everything for you.
3. If I have another building or house, can I use the surplus energy generated in one for the other?
If they’re within 2 km of each other, you can register your system as a collective self-consumption installation and allocate the energy between the two however it suits you.
If they’re farther apart, you’ll need to use a retailer that allows compensation of surplus energy from one site with the consumption at the other, based on a pre-agreed rate.
4. I have several hectares of unused land — can I build a solar plant there and sell the energy? What’s the minimum power I would need to install?
You’ll need to ensure there’s an electrical grid connection point nearby with available capacity to inject the energy. Also, keep in mind that building on rural land requires special land-use permits and is subject to environmental permitting. These factors can heavily influence the timeline — installations may take several years or, depending on the location and land type, may not be viable at all. Once access to the grid and permits are resolved, you’ll have the same options as a rooftop installation.
4.I have several hectares of land — can I lease it for a solar PV installation?
That’s a great option, as long as you’re aware that lease agreements need to be long-term (typically 25 years) due to the scale of the investment. The permitting process can also take several years, during which no income will be generated. A grid connection point with available capacity nearby is also essential to make the project viable.
1. How much can I save on my electricity bill with these optimizations?
It depends on your current consumption and the measures implemented, but on average, clients have achieved savings between 20% and 50%.
2. How soon will I start noticing the savings in my company?
As soon as the improvement measures are up and running, you’ll notice the savings in the next bill. What varies is the payback period depending on the measure. Once the investment is recovered, the savings increase by the amount previously allocated to repayment, further improving your cash flow.
3. How is the estimated savings for my company calculated?
We analyze your current consumption, identify areas for improvement, and provide an estimate based on the measures you choose to implement.
4. What factors affect the amount I can save?
Your company’s current energy consumption profile, contracted tariffs, available space for solar installation, and the efficiency of the equipment in use.
5. Is it possible that after making these changes I won’t see any savings?
If the proper recommendations are followed, savings are inevitable. The key is to implement tailored measures and manage resources effectively.
6. How do I know if my company is suitable for achieving savings with these strategies?
If you have high electricity bills, unnecessary consumption peaks, or an unoptimized contracted power, it’s very likely that you can reduce costs.
7. Can I know the potential savings before implementing any changes?
Yes, we carry out a simulation analysis to estimate the financial impact before taking any action.
8. Do I need to make a large investment to start saving on energy?
Not necessarily. There are low-cost measures that can generate immediate savings without upfront investment, as well as financing options.
1. What are the typical actions to be taken on the building envelope that I manage?
The most common actions include replacing windows and facade joinery, insulating the facade (either from the outside or the inside), and insulating and waterproofing the roof. Measures to eliminate dampness caused by condensation or rising damp may also be carried out.
2. If we install a photovoltaic system on a building, can the energy generated be shared with the neighbors?
Absolutely. The law allows this through predefined distribution coefficients that are established when the installation is legalized. The key requirement is that the building has available space for the system.
3. Some neighbors don’t want photovoltaic panels installed on the roof. What can we do?
The Horizontal Property Law is clear: to install photovoltaic panels for community consumption, 50% of the neighbors must agree, and in that case, the cost must be shared among all neighbors (whether they agree or not).
If it is for private use by some neighbors, at least one-third of the neighbors must agree to allow the use of the roof (they don’t have to participate in the self-consumption, just give consent). In this case, the rest must allow it, provided that the installation is paid for by those who will benefit from it, and that they allow other neighbors to join under predefined conditions if they wish to do so later.
4. I live in the top-floor apartment of a multi-storey community. Can I install panels on the roof?
You will still need to request permission from the community. According to the Horizontal Property Law, at least one-third of favorable votes are required to carry out the installation, and the community is not obliged to cover any of the related costs.
5. I live in a multi-storey community. Can I install panels on the roof if the top-floor neighbor gives me permission?
Permission must be requested from the community. According to the Horizontal Property Law, at least one-third of favorable votes are required to carry out the installation, and the community is not obliged to cover any of the related costs.
6. I live in a multi-storey community. How many neighbors must agree in order to install panels? If one neighbor opposes, can we still install them if several of us are in favor?
If it’s for private use by some neighbors, at least one-third of the neighbors must agree to the use of the roof (they don’t have to participate in self-consumption, just consent to the use). In that case, the rest must allow it, provided that the benefiting neighbors pay for the installation and allow others to join later under predefined conditions.
If a neighbor opposes but represents less than two-thirds of the community, the installation can still go ahead.
1. Are there subsidies for energy efficiency actions?
Yes. European decarbonization policies are backed by strong regulations and supported by the Next Generation EU funds, which in Spain are managed through the IDAE and distributed by the autonomous communities. Regional calls for different actions are published periodically.
It’s important to act based on your investment strategy, not just wait for subsidies, because aid programs are competitive and can change in conditions, amounts, and frequency. Funds may run out or have strict deadlines, and you risk missing opportunities or losing savings while waiting for aid.
With aid, the return on investment improves — but remember, approval and especially disbursement are not immediate.
There are permanent programs such as CAEs (Energy Saving Certificates), which offer financial compensation. Other forms include tax deductions (IS, IRPF, IBI) and ICIO tax rebates. Aid varies by region, city, and type of project. Tell us your location and we’ll study your options.
2. Is the application process difficult?
It’s more tedious than difficult. It involves a lot of paperwork, often in different formats and platforms. Be patient, read instructions (if available), and prepare all required documents in advance. Online forms can expire if not completed quickly.
Always list attached documents and save submission receipts. Rejections are common, often due to supposed missing documents, even when proof of submission exists. This is a way to restart their deadline.
Once approved, you’ll be asked for documentation throughout the project to prove the investment. If you prefer, you can authorize us and we’ll handle everything.
3. How should I justify the actions to secure the subsidy?
If you’ve already received confirmation of eligibility and provide complete documentation, the aid is guaranteed. Justification usually includes that eligibility approval, invoices, proof of payment, declarations, legal system certification (CIE), and geotagged photos.
4. How long does it take to get approved and receive the funds?
For Next Generation EU aid, approval can take 3 to 6 months, depending on the call and completeness of your application. Disbursement takes longer and depends on the regional government’s capacity. Some clients have waited up to 3.5 years, with an average around 2 years.
You should plan to fund the investment yourself initially. There are also CAEs and tax benefits (IS, IRPF, IBI, ICIO), depending on your location and the type of action.
5. Do I need a building permit?
Yes, but we can prepare all the documentation for you.
6. Is it a good idea to get an energy rating for the building before and after the project?
In 2023–2024, tax deductions were available for achieving an A or B rating, or a 30% reduction in non-renewable energy use. Although that incentive is no longer active, it may return. Improving your energy rating also boosts your property’s market value. So yes, it’s often worth it.
1. Does a photovoltaic system require maintenance? What warranty does it have? Can a panel fail, and how would I know?
Even though it’s not complicated, it is an electrical power generation system — sometimes connected to high voltage — so it must be properly maintained to optimize performance, prevent risks, and comply with the law.
Our systems are monitored in real time, so we can detect any issue and act quickly. We also monitor performance trends to perform predictive maintenance, but at least one annual check of the inverter, junction boxes, cabling, and panels is recommended.
Panels can fail — the most common hidden issue is the formation of hot spots from shading. A well-designed system and regular maintenance help prevent this. You’ll notice performance drops that don’t recover even in ideal conditions. Identifying the faulty panel requires a thermal inspection.
We guarantee correct installation for two years, during which we include free maintenance. We also transfer the manufacturer’s equipment warranty to the system owner.
2. What warranty do the panels have?
In general, panels come with a product warranty of 15 to 25 years depending on the brand, and a power output warranty of 88.85% of nominal power for up to 30 years.
3. What warranty do the batteries have?
Battery manufacturers offer warranties ranging from 5 to 10 years, provided the equipment is used and maintained according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
4. If I install panels on the roof, do they need frequent cleaning? Does maintenance include panel cleaning?
Cleaning frequency depends on your local climate (rainfall), nearby conditions (e.g., unpaved roads, birds), and roof tilt — not whether the panels are on the roof or ground-mounted.
We offer free monitoring for the first two years, but it does NOT include cleaning. However, we do offer cleaning as an additional service.
5. If I change my router, will I lose access to the system’s production data?
Each router has a unique password, so if you change it or the Wi-Fi credentials, the inverter needs to be reconnected and reconfigured to the new network.
1. Can you finance the installation?
Yes, we work with several financial institutions that offer simple financing options for this type of project.
2. Do you offer a fixed monthly fee for electricity, regardless of how much I consume?
We offer the option to install a self-consumption system on your roof to provide electricity without requiring you to pay for the installation. In this case, the system would be owned by the financing entity, which would charge you a fixed monthly fee regardless of the energy you self-consume.
We are not an energy retailer, so we cannot manage the rest of your grid-supplied electricity. Some energy companies do offer what you’re asking for, but we recommend carefully analyzing whether a fixed monthly fee is more beneficial than paying for actual consumption once the system is operating. Also consider that in such arrangements, the system does not belong to the roof owner, and no rental income is received for the space used by the installation.
1. What’s the difference between using a single inverter for the whole system and using microinverters?
Each type of inverter suits different conditions. Microinverters are ideal when panels have different orientations, partial shading during the day, or when you want module-level monitoring. They’re easier to connect but harder to maintain, as they are installed behind the panels and may require panel removal to access. Alternatively, optimizers can be used per panel.
2. If there’s a power outage, will I still have electricity because of the panels?
No, unless your system is designed for off-grid operation. In grid-tied systems, even though the panels still generate electricity, the inverter shuts down for safety reasons (islanding prevention).
3. And if I also have batteries? Will I still have power during a grid outage?
No, for the same reason as above. Your system must be specifically designed to work independently from the grid when there’s no voltage.
4. What kind of batteries can I install at home if I have a Huawei inverter?
The most common are lithium-ion batteries due to their long life, deep discharge, and low maintenance. It’s generally best to use a battery from the same brand as the inverter, as they’re better integrated. You could also use an AC-coupled battery that operates independently from the inverter.
5. Which solar panels are best?
Performance is quite standard across similar technologies (monocrystalline, polycrystalline, amorphous), but it’s important to consider size, available space, climate, durability, performance, warranty, insurance, price, and aesthetics to find the most suitable option.
6. What is a DAF and how can it help reduce reactive energy consumption?
A DAF is a power electronics device that eliminates reactive energy consumption. It’s useful when inductive reactive energy exceeds legal limits and results in energy bill penalties.
7. Why is using a DAF better than a capacitor bank?
Because capacitor banks have a short lifespan (usually under 5 years) even with maintenance. They also consume active power, potentially increasing your bill. They require manual adjustment to match reactive demand, and incorrect tuning can result in penalties for injecting capacitive reactive energy.
8. What is aerothermal energy and why is it more efficient than other heating/cooling systems?
Aerothermal technology uses heat pumps to extract energy from outdoor air to provide heating, cooling, and hot water. It works efficiently even in winter and can be powered by the grid or solar energy.
9. Can aerothermal systems be installed in apartments or only single-family homes?
They can be installed in apartments if there is enough space and community approval (especially if the façade is affected). Compact models without outdoor units are available.
10. Can I install a heat pump just for domestic hot water or only for heating/cooling?
Yes, there are models for each specific need.
11. Is the investment in a heat pump high? Is it worth it?
Initial costs are higher than traditional systems, but energy savings make it profitable in the medium term, even without subsidies.
12. Can I control it from my phone when I’m not home?
Yes, most modern models offer remote control via mobile apps.
13. How long does it take to pay off a heat pump?
It depends on energy usage and tariffs, but it usually pays for itself in 5–10 years through savings and available incentives.
14. Is it recommended for homes with poor insulation?
It works better in well-insulated homes, but it can be installed in any home — though energy consumption will be higher in poorly insulated ones.
15. Can I install an air-based climate system if I don’t have or want radiators?
Yes, fan coils or air conditioning units with heat pumps are viable options.
16. What happens if the outdoor unit fluid freezes?
Modern systems include automatic defrost functions to prevent freezing.
17. How does aerothermal heating affect indoor humidity?
It doesn’t affect humidity, but when used for cooling via radiant floors, condensation control might be needed in humid climates.
18. Is it compatible with pellet or wood heating systems?
Yes, both systems can be combined to improve efficiency and reduce costs during high-demand periods.
19. How long does a heat pump last before needing replacement?
With proper maintenance, a heat pump typically lasts 15–20 years
1. How long will it take to implement energy efficiency measures in my company?
It depends on the chosen measure, but some improvements can be implemented in less than a week without affecting operations.
2. Do I need technical knowledge to manage energy optimization?
No, not if you do it with us. Our team handles the analysis, implementation, and follow-up.
3. How many internal meetings or actions does my company need to start?
Very few on your part. We only need initial data, and we take care of the rest. If the starting assumptions are well defined, we’ll only need access to your facilities for implementation.
4. How does Entiba Energy ensure the process is easy for us?
We manage the entire process — from audit to implementation — to minimize your operational burden.
5. Is there a risk of operational issues during implementation?
No. All measures are planned with you in advance to avoid disruption. We adapt to your schedules to ensure minimal interruption.
6. Can I test an optimization before committing to full implementation?
Yes, some solutions can be implemented in phases to assess their impact before a full rollout.
7. Do I have to stop production or business activity?
We minimize interference with your operations. We agree in advance on access routes and storage zones. If necessary, any shutdown will be brief and previously arranged with you.
8. Do you handle all installation tasks? Is it a turnkey solution?
Yes, our typical service is turnkey. We manage everything — design, permitting, subsidies, installation, commissioning, monitoring, documentation, training, and two years of maintenance.
9. I already have an installation and need just 2 more panels — can I expand using microinverters?
Yes, you can add two panels with microinverters, but their monitoring and control will be separate from the rest of your system.
10. I have a hotel, and I’ve been told that installing aerothermal systems and solar panels can lead to major savings. Is that true?
Absolutely. You could save between 30% and 80% on your energy bill. But it’s best to quantify those savings with a specific study on cost-effectiveness and return on investment. Call us — we’ll be happy to help you bring your idea to life.
1. Do I need to make a large investment to start saving on energy?
No, there are many low-cost optimizations that generate immediate savings without requiring an upfront investment.
2. What measures can I apply without purchasing new equipment?
Adjusting contracted power, switching to a different tariff, optimizing consumption schedules, and raising staff awareness.
3. If I decide to invest in technology, how long will it take to recover my investment?
It depends on the type of improvement and your starting point, but typical payback periods range from 6 months to 6 years.
4. Can I implement efficiency improvements without changing my current infrastructure?
Yes, by optimizing energy use through sensors, scheduling, and adjustments to electricity contracts.
5. What’s the difference between low-cost measures and large-scale energy efficiency investments?
Low-cost measures can also generate immediate savings, but not all address the same types of consumption or deliver the same savings potential. Larger investments can significantly reduce consumption and increase long-term energy independence.
6. Are there financing options for energy efficiency projects?
Yes, there are grants, energy leasing, and other options that allow improvements to be financed without upfront payment.
7. What technological upgrades offer the best return on investment?
Solar PV installations, smart energy storage, consumption control automation, and HVAC improvements.
8. If my company has a limited budget, where should I start?
Generally, with tariff optimization, adjustments to contracted power, and scheduling energy use. A tailored study can also help determine what’s most profitable for your company.
9. How do I know if my company needs a technological investment or just better energy management?
An energy audit will provide a clear diagnosis of the most beneficial options.
10. Is it mandatory to invest in energy efficiency to comply with future regulations?
Currently, under Spain’s Law 11/2018, companies with over 250 employees, or that meet financial thresholds (€20M in assets or €40M in turnover for two consecutive years), must report non-financial information. This includes having an emissions reduction plan verified by an auditor. While the plan is voluntary, failure to comply can affect company reputation and ultimately impact revenue.
Once Directive 2022/2464 is transposed into Spanish law (expected in 2025), non-financial reporting will become more demanding, with stricter transparency and comparability requirements.
Also keep in mind that, under current regulations, the better your building’s energy rating, the more you save during use, and the greater its market value for sale or lease.
1. My business is located in northern Spain — is it still profitable to install a solar PV system?
All of Spain receives significantly more solar radiation than most of Europe. Specifically, northern Spain averages around 1,000 equivalent sun hours per year — a level only matched in parts of southern Germany, which nonetheless leads in solar self-consumption installations, including with batteries.
Therefore, although it depends on your exact location, the key factor in assessing the profitability of a solar system is your energy consumption profile — in other words, what time of day your main usage occurs.
2. How do I know if my roof is suitable for a solar PV system?
Check the following factors:
- The building is not protected under heritage laws.
- There is sufficient free space.
- The space is free from shade (trees, parapets, chimneys, HVAC units, etc.).
- If it’s not clear, consider whether installations can be relocated.
- Analyze the roof’s tilt and orientation. Flat roofs allow flexible orientation; for pitched roofs, south-facing is ideal. East-west dual-pitch roofs are also good, especially if extended solar hours are needed.
- Check the roof’s load-bearing capacity — this can be found in the building’s structural plan. If you don’t have one, share details about the structure (trusses, beams, etc.), and we’ll advise you.
- Make sure the roof is NOT made of asbestos cement (uralita). If it is, it must be replaced first.
3. Will installing solar panels cause roof leaks?
The anchoring systems we use include sealing measures to waterproof any roof penetrations. At Entiba Energy, we take both system performance and building integrity very seriously — we offer two years of free maintenance.
Leaks may occur due to the roof type (walkable or not) or its prior condition. For non-walkable roofs, secure walkways must be used to avoid damaging the surface. If the roof already has leaks, we recommend waterproofing it before installation.
4. Can I expand my system later if I need more power?
Yes, as long as you have available space for more panels. You may also need to upgrade or add another inverter. If you anticipate increased consumption soon, it’s best to oversize the system slightly from the start.
5. Will the building get hotter since the panels absorb solar energy?
Quite the opposite — panels absorb sunlight to convert it into electricity, preventing it from reaching the roof, which keeps it cooler. It’s also important to leave a small gap between the panel and the roof to allow airflow and prevent heat buildup that could reduce efficiency.
6. Where should the inverter be installed? Can it be outdoors? Does it need ventilation?
There are many inverter types — most are weatherproof. They can be installed under the panels for sun and rain protection. Larger models are fully encapsulated and suitable for outdoor use.
Indoor installation is also possible but requires good ventilation to avoid heat and humidity buildup.
In general, choose a location that is accessible, ideally shaded and dry, with good Wi-Fi connectivity for monitoring, and as close as possible to minimize cable losses.
7. What happens if it snows? Can the panels be damaged? What about hail?
If properly installed with a robust structure, snow won’t damage the panels, though they won’t generate power while covered.
Hail can be a risk if it’s large and intense, like in recent events in Texas, but such occurrences are rare in Spain. In any case, comprehensive insurance can cover this risk.
8. Can I install solar panels in a heritage-protected area?
Yes, but you’ll need approval from the heritage authorities. The project must include careful exterior design and propose architectural integration of the panels into the building and its surroundings.