Enhancing Energy Efficiency and Cost Savings
Enhancing Energy Efficiency and Cost Savings
Solar Panel
Battery Storage
Heat Pump
This case study examines the financial implications and benefits
for a family of five living in an Swiss house after the optimal installation of solar panels, battery storage, and a heat pump system. The assessment covers installation costs, operational savings, and the long-term financial impact, considering the Swiss context of energy prices and climate.
A family in Geneva decided to embrace a sustainable future and reduce their energy costs.
They live in a 200 m² house, which is well-insulated and typical for the region. The family had a clear goal: to maximize energy efficiency, minimize environmental impact, and achieve long-term financial savings.
We install a Solar Photovoltaic, a Battery Storage and a Heat Pump for the Family.
A 10 kWp solar photovoltaic (PV) system, which cost approximately CHF 25,000 after considering the Swiss federal and cantonal subsidies for renewable energy investments. They added a 10 kWh battery storage system, with an investment of CHF 8,000. A heat pump was also installed to provide efficient heating and cooling, with an installation cost of CHF 15,000.
Operational Costs and Savings
The solar PV system generates an average of 9,500 kWh per year, covering most of the family’s electrical needs, which amount to approximately 7,500 kWh annually (including the heat pump operation).
The excess electricity is either stored in the battery or sold back to the grid. With an average electricity price of CHF 0.20 per kWh in Geneva, the family saves around CHF 1,500 in electricity costs annually.
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The battery system enables the family to maximize the use of their solar energy, especially during the peak demand times when electricity is more expensive. The heat pump operates with an average coefficient of performance (COP) of 4, meaning for every unit of electricity, it provides four units of heat.
This efficiency translates to significant savings during the cold months, considering the typical cost of heating in Switzerland.
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The total investment in the green energy system amounted to CHF 48,000.
With annual savings of about CHF 1,500 from electricity, plus an additional estimated CHF 1,000 in heating costs, the family achieves annual savings of CHF 2,500. This results in a payback period of roughly 19 years, within the lifespan of the systems installed. The family also benefits from an increased property value (by approximately 4%, which represents CHF 60,000 ), as energy-efficient homes are in high demand.
Additionally, the Swiss energy market policies offer incentives for renewable energy generation, which can further reduce the payback period. With a conservative estimate of a 1% annual increase in energy prices, the long-term savings are even more significant.
For this Swiss family, the investment in solar panels, battery storage, and a heat pump has not only provided a step towards energy independence and a reduced carbon footprint but also a financially sound decision with substantial long-term benefits.
The case demonstrates that with current technologies and supportive policies, transitioning to renewable energy is a viable and rewarding option for Swiss households.