The energy ministry is planning more favorable operating terms for small-scale solar systems inducted into a “PVs on farmland” subsidy program supporting PV installations by farmers seeking to meet their energy needs through self-production.

A 50-KW capacity limit has been decided on for PV investments included in this subsidy program, whose terms have been finalized and are set to be officially announced in the first half of April.

Distribution network operator DEDDIE/HEDNO will then launch an online platform accepting applications for the “PVs on farmland” subsidy program, to make available a total of 30 million euros at a subsidy rate of 40 percent, regardless of system capacity.

Farmers will be able to submit applications for the subsidy program without having previously signed connection term agreements with the operator.

PV systems with a capacity of up to 30 KW will be regulated under a net-metering system, while photovoltaic systems with capacities ranging from 31 to 50 KW will be regulated under the net-billing system, energypress sources informed.

Farmers planning smaller PV systems of up to 10 KW will be given priority in the processing of applications. Between 2,000 and 3,000 applications are expected to be approved.