In a significant move to streamline solar panel installations, the Ministries of Interior, Municipalities, Public Works, Transport, Energy, and Water have established a unified framework. This new regulation, effective from September 9, 2026, governs the installation process for solar panels with a production capacity of less than 1.5 megawatts, detailing application procedures, technical and administrative conditions, and approval timelines.
According to the decision, property owners must submit their installation requests to the concerned municipality or the local administrative office in towns without municipal authorities. Applications must include specific documents such as certifications signed by a registered structural engineer and an electrical or electromechanical engineer, alongside required engineering documents and models.
For installations on shared building sections, a map outlining the installation site and roof space distribution among owners is necessary. Additionally, consent from the owners' association or 75% of the owners in its absence is required, safeguarding all owners' rights. Lessees or occupiers must obtain the property owner's consent as well.
The regulation sets technical requirements for installations on building rooftops, capping the panel height at 3 meters for buildings under 15 meters and 4.5 meters for taller structures. Installing panels atop stairwell cages is prohibited.
For ground installations, panel heights cannot exceed 2 meters, and the lowest panel point should not be more than 40 centimeters above ground, aligning panels for optimal sunlight capture.
Any deviations from specified dimensions classify panels as metal structures subject to building laws and applicable regulations.
The regulation mandates municipalities or local authorities to decide on applications within 15 days of filing or completion. In the case of rejection, applicants must be informed of the reasons. If no response is issued in that timeframe, applications are automatically approved, allowing installation commencement post-required municipal fee payment.
Permissions will not be granted on properties with halted construction due to violations unless addressed according to regulations.
Supervising engineers must issue a final compliance certificate post-installation, certifying system usability and adherence to safety standards.
The regulation entrusts the Internal Security Forces and municipal police with the enforcement of compliance, while approved applicants must complete installations within a year of receiving approval, failing which the approval is void unless resubmitted.