Solar&StorageXtra spoke to Lars Mülli, CEO of GVZ Gebäudeversicherung Kanton Zürich, at Solar & Storage Live in Zürich this September.
Lars discussed how GVZ Building Insurance works with the solar industry to protect infrastructure, how hail is becoming an increasing threat to solar modules, and the regulations solar installers and businesses need to consider in Switzerland.
Interview with Lars Mülli, CEO of GVZ Gebäudeversicherung Kanton Zürich
“As hailstorms have become bigger and bigger, the normatives are about to increase from the usual areas of Switzerland from category three to category four. This means that the (solar) modules have to resist the hail.”
Xtra: Talk to us about GVZ’s mission, and any achievements over the last year.
Lars: The building insurance company is one of the authorities overseeing insurance against fire and natural disasters – such as earthquakes. We also serve as the supervisory body for fire prevention authorities and fire services in all communities in Zürich.
We are involved in both prevention and intervention, as well as the regulation of damage.
Xtra: Why is the solar industry important to GVZ?
Lars: Solar panels are often installed on facades and roofs of buildings and have compulsory insurance. We have a high interest in ensuring they are installed correctly and comply with regulations and laws.
In Switzerland, obtaining permission for solar installations has become much easier, with most installations now permitted without requiring special approval.
However, we need to tell the public that “permission-free” does not mean they don’t have to take care of regulations and imperatives.
Xtra: Can you talk to us about your presentation?
Lars: In my presentation, I’ll show the regulations that have to be considered, particularly the differences based on installation type (rooftop vs. facade) and the height of the building.
Of course, a high-rise building exceeding a certain height will have stricter requirements compared to a one-family house.
Xtra: Can you identify any trends in the insurance sector that the solar and storage industries need to be aware of?
Lars: For me, these are issues related to fire and the impact of hail. As hailstorms have become bigger and bigger, the normatives are about to increase from the usual areas of Switzerland from category three to category four. This means that the (solar) modules have to resist the hail.
This means that solar panels have to resist hailstones up to four centimetres in diameter to reduce damage. Ecologically, if they’re getting broken less often, you need to replace them less frequently and we’ll produce less grey energy.
Xtra: What benefits does GVZ see from attending Solar & Storage Live?
Lars: We get to know where the industry is at the moment and the developments. (We see) which challenges are being solved in the meantime, and the battery storage possibilities developing year by year.
Missed out on Solar & Storage Live Zürich, or want to come back for more? Don’t miss the Barcelona edition from 13-14 November.
