Historic Munich Church Embraces Solar Power with 65 kW PV System
Munich, September 3 – The Evangelical-Lutheran Auferstehungskirche (Church of the Resurrection) in Munich’s Westend has successfully installed a 65-kilowatt (kW) photovoltaic (PV) system on its roof, inaugurated in 1931. The solar power generation commenced at the end of August 2026, marking a significant step in the church’s comprehensive modernization and climate protection project. The PV system is complemented by two battery storage units, each with a capacity of 30 kilowatt-hours (kWh).
The church’s initiative extends beyond solar power, with plans to replace its existing natural gas-fired heating system with a modern, large-scale heat pump. The newly installed PV array is intended to power this heat pump, further reducing the church’s carbon footprint and energy costs.
Strict Heritage Protection Regulations Met
The installation of the PV system required special approval under the Bavarian Heritage Protection Act. The Lower Heritage Protection Authority of the City of Munich granted permission with specific conditions. These included the mandate to use “monochrome dark solar modules without glossy metallic frames.” The church was required to submit the module type for approval before installation began. Additionally, full coverage of both sides of the saddle roof above the nave was not permitted.
Georg Ledig, a member of the church council and project leader, praised the cooperation from authorities. “Our contact person at the Heritage Protection Authority was very cooperative and gave us many good tips,” Ledig stated. “The same applies to the Church Parish Office and the Regional Church Office.” Prior to the installation of the solar modules, Pastor Zahn blessed the installers, wishing them protection and safe footing on the roof.
Roof Renovation and Structural Integrity
Installing a photovoltaic system adds an extra load to the roof, necessitating a prior structural analysis. This was particularly crucial given the almost century-old roof truss and tiles. The PV project provided an opportunity to thoroughly inspect the roof and address existing damage, such as decaying roof battens, before the solar panels were mounted.
Energy Self-Sufficiency and Cost Savings
The solar power generated since August 2026 will primarily be used for self-consumption within the church, the community center, the rectory, and the sacristan’s residence. Any surplus electricity will be stored in the two battery systems. Only the remaining excess solar power will be fed into the public grid, for which the church will receive a feed-in tariff.
The church community anticipates significant energy cost savings through the self-produced solar power. These savings are expected to increase even further once the heat pump is installed, as the 65 kW PV system on the roof will also supply its power needs.
This pioneering project at the Auferstehungskirche demonstrates how historical buildings can integrate modern renewable energy solutions while respecting and preserving their architectural heritage. It serves as a model for other heritage-listed structures seeking to contribute to climate protection and energy independence.
Source: Auferstehungskirche München | www.solarserver.de
