One of the most important solar energy projects originated in the low-insolated North. Based on laser scan data collected by plane, the alignment and pitches of all roofs in Osnabrück were recorded and the seasonal clouding under different sun positions simulated under consideration of the adjacent buildings and trees. The result of those calculations immediately convinced other German city governments as well: it was possible to meet all of Osnabrück’s power needs by equipping the suitable areas. Using the surfaces for solar heating would yield at least triple the energy gain.
By now it is a matter of course for communities to make their solar roof data available via the Internet. After all, the rather low investment in a roof analysis yields an enormous effect. For house owners, solar associations and investors, searching for a site to install solar systems has become a walk in the park. Buildings are colour-coded on the maps according to their potential solar yield. The search for large roofage in industrial areas is especially easy for investors in large-scale solar plants. Some local communities have extended their databases by adding the potential power and heat plants and local solar heating to indicate the best techniques and the amortisation plan for each particular site.
In many places service companies fund and manage energy infrastructure in the form of solar panels, combined heat and power plants, local heating networks or fuel cells. Many of the residents pay for the energy consumed minus the energy produced. The companies take care of the rest. "Even before you’re really aware that there’s something wrong with the fuel cell, the photovoltaic system, the warm water heater, the gas stove or washing machine”, a resident of Torgau, Saxony recounts, "there’s a technician on your doorstep to take care of the problem."
