Latvia Launches Net Metering Scheme

• Latvenergo of Latvia has launched net metering scheme for citizens interested in installing rooftop solar systems
• Systems between 1.5 kW and 10 kW can be installed under the Elektrum Solarium program
• Latvenergo is also providing zero interest payment for up to five years
• The utility's electricity trading platform Elektrum will assist customers in selecting a suitable solar system package

Latvia's state-owned utility Latvenergo has launched a net metering scheme that allows customers to install solar power systems between 1.5 and 10 kW to generate clean energy.

Under the Elektrum Solarium program utility customers will be able to connect their solar power systems to the grid and feed-in unused power.

Latvenergo's electricity trading platform Elektrum will facilitate the implementation of the program offering assistance in processing official documents. It helps customers get customized packages for their roofs and offers ancillary services to protect panels from lightning and overvoltage damage.

Interested citizens can choose from various systems Latvenergo, which will be installed by its partner SIA Sun Invest. Latvenergo also offers financing, with the best package offering zero interest bearing payment up to five years.

"For several years now, the brand Elektrum has been used for Latvenergo's sales in the Baltics," said Director of Electricity Sales of Latvenergo AS, Uldis Mucinieks. Adding,  The introduction of new services will push us forward and this process will continue."

The legislative framework for net metering for renewable energy generators in Latvia was passed by the government at the start of 2016, which has resulted in around 1.3 MW of new capacity in 2016., according to the grid operator.

According to the European solar sector association SolarPower Europe, around 1 MW of new solar power capacity was installed in Latvia last year.