Why is the solar panel and heat pump combination so efficient?
Running your heat pump on solar electricity drastically reduces effective heating costs. That is the core of the combination — and why more and more Swiss homeowners are adopting this system.
The Seasonal Coefficient of Performance (SCOP) determines how efficient the combination is. The higher the SCOP, the less electricity the pump needs:
What subsidies are available for the combination in Switzerland?
Solar panels and heat pumps are subsidized separately in Switzerland — meaning you receive support for both components.
The tax deduction expires at the end of 2027 — 2026 and 2027 are the last years to take full advantage.
Solar panels and heat pump — which type is best?
Not all heat pumps combine equally well with solar panels.
Air-to-water heat pump (most common choice): No drilling required, but uses more solar electricity than other types. Ideal for existing buildings and smaller budgets.
Ideal for new builds and maximum efficiency.
Water-source heat pump (most powerful): Highly efficient, but requires sufficient groundwater availability. Not possible everywhere, permit required.
For most Swiss single-family homes, the air-to-water heat pump combined with solar panels is the most practical and economical solution.
Do I need a battery storage system?
Not necessarily — but a battery significantly increases self-consumption.
Without battery: In summer, the heat pump runs directly on solar electricity for hot water. In winter — when the heat pump uses most electricity — solar production is low.
With battery: Solar electricity from midday is stored and used in the evening for the heat pump.
With battery + smart heating control: The heat pump pre-heats the hot water tank during the day using solar energy.
An energy management system that automatically activates the heat pump when solar surplus is available is often more cost-effective than an expensive battery.
Who benefits most from the combination?
Homeowners with old oil or gas heating: Switching from oil/gas to heat pump + solar reduces energy costs the most. The combination of subsidies is maximum here.
New builds and full renovations: Integration is optimally planned from the start. Underfloor heating and a well-insulated building envelope maximize heat pump efficiency.
Households with electric vehicles: Anyone with or planning an EV already needs more electricity. The solar system must be dimensioned accordingly — and the combination pays off even more.
- Old oil/gas heating: maximum savings and combined subsidies
- New constructions: optimal integration from the start
- Electric vehicle owners: larger installation, even more savings
- Investing in 2026/2027: tax deduction for both systems before 2027 expiry
Step by step: how to proceed
Step 1 — Analyse energy needs: How much electricity does your household use? How much heat does your building need? Is it well insulated? A certified installer answers these questions in a free consultation.
Step 2 — Size the system: Solar panels and heat pump must be matched to each other. A system that is too small will not cover the heat pump's electricity needs.
Step 3 — Compare quotes: Getting at least 3 quotes is essential for such a large investment.
Step 4 — Apply for subsidies: For the Buildings Programme (heat pump), the application must be submitted before work begins. For the OTP (solar panels), the installer submits the application after installation.
Step 5 — Installation and commissioning: Solar panels and heat pump can be installed simultaneously or in stages. Simultaneous installation saves scaffolding costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it worth combining solar panels and a heat pump in Switzerland in 2026?+
Yes, the combination is one of the most profitable energy investments available.
What size solar panels do I need for a heat pump?+
Sizing should account for heat-pump and household electricity use, available roof area and the location.
Which heat pump works best with solar panels?+
All types of heat pumps can be combined with solar panels. The air-to-water heat pump is the most common and least expensive. The ground-source heat pump is more efficient and uses less solar electricity, but costs more.
Do I need battery storage for the combination?+
An energy management system that automatically activates the heat pump when solar surplus is available is often more economical than an expensive battery.
What subsidies are available for solar panels and heat pump together?+
Solar and heat pumps are supported separately. Check the applicable cantonal programmes and tax treatment for the location.
Can I add a heat pump to my existing solar installation?+
Yes, this is perfectly possible. However, the existing solar installation should be large enough.
Elia Alacam
Founder of PvPro.ch
Elia Alacam founded PvPro.ch in Lugano. Since then, he has connected more than 1,000 quote requests with Swiss solar companies and writes here about costs, incentives and quotes.
About Elia Alacam →Indicative values, updated September 2026. Sources: Pronovo, ElCom, Swissolar.
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