Tenants: PV & Mieterstrom in Germany

As a tenant in Germany, using a PV system or tenant electricity in an older building can bring opportunities and questions. This text explains clearly which costs you as a tenant should document, how to secure receipts, meter readings and agreements, and how subsidies or allocations work. You will receive practical steps for collecting invoices, photo documentation of installations, and for communicating with the landlord. There are also notes on potential disputes, the role of tenancy law, and when a local court or regional court can help. The goal is that you as a tenant recognize your rights and duties clearly and can present evidence if needed. The tips are practical and legally sound.

What to include in documentation?

Collect evidence systematically: only with complete invoices, payment records and meter readings can costs be proven to a landlord or court. Note date, time and sender name for emails and phone notes.

• Invoices and payment records (receipt) – keep all installation and operating cost invoices.
• Meter readings and handover protocols (record) – take regular photos and notes of meter readings.
• Contracts and agreements (form) – secure tenant electricity contracts, consent statements or allocation agreements.
• Photo documentation (photo) – images of the system, meters and damages to complement documents.
• Communication with the landlord (contact) – keep copies of emails, registered letters and conversation records.

Costs, allocation and subsidies

Who bears which costs often depends on the contract. In principle, the owner is responsible for installation and investment; allocations for operation or special agreements can be part of the lease. Check the relevant provisions in the German Civil Code (BGB) (§§ 535–580a).^[1] For subsidy programs for solar energy, federal agencies such as BAFA provide information.^[3]

Important forms and templates

The following forms or templates are relevant for tenants. Use official application forms for subsidy agencies and use templates for court letters only as samples.

• BAFA/subsidy applications (application form) – if you want to verify whether modernization subsidies reduce costs, use the official BAFA or KfW application forms.
• Template letter to landlord (form) – request invoices, meter readings and agreements in writing; for example, a simple letter asking for documentation within a deadline.
• Complaint form for eviction/cost disputes (court form) – in disputes over allocation or missing operating cost statements, litigation may be necessary; local courts use standardized forms.

Communication: how to stay protected

Write clearly and briefly: date, requested documents and deadline. Send important requests by registered mail or email with read receipt and keep confirmation of receipt.

• Wording help (form) – specifically request invoices, meter readings and agreements within a reasonable deadline.
• Evidence preservation (record) – keep copies in chronological order and secure digital backups.
• Contact details (contact) – note contacts, dates and conversation content for phone calls.

Legal steps and courts

For unclear allocations or missing statements, local courts (Amtsgericht) are the first instance for tenancy disputes. For complex legal questions or appeals, regional courts and the Federal Court of Justice follow.^[2] Quote relevant BGB paragraphs in letters and complaints and present your documentation as evidence.^[1]

FAQ

Who pays for the PV system in an older building?

In principle, the owner bears the acquisition costs. Different agreements in the lease are possible; check written arrangements and discuss possible cost allocations in advance.^[1]

Can I as a tenant receive tenant electricity and check the costs?

Yes, tenant electricity is possible if a tenant electricity contract exists. Request access to billing, meter readings and agreements to verify costs.

When is litigation appropriate and where should I go?

If the landlord refuses invoices or demands unjustified allocations, litigation at the local court may be appropriate. Keep all records and consider legal advice before suing.^[2]

How-To

1. Collect invoices and payment receipts (receipt) and file them chronologically.
2. Photograph meter readings and the system regularly (photo) and note date and time.
3. Request accounts and agreements in writing from the landlord (form) and set a reasonable deadline.
4. If no agreement is reached, prepare a complaint and file your documents at the competent local court (court).
5. Use official advisory centers or hotlines for tenant law to have your documentation reviewed (contact).

Help and Support

• [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) — Gesetze im Internet
• [2] Information about courts — justiz.de
• [3] BAFA – Energy subsidy information

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) — Gesetze im Internet
2. [2] Information about courts — justiz.de
3. [3] BAFA – Energy subsidy information