Revolution in Schönau: Bavaria's largest PV carport system opened!

Revolution in Schönau: Bavaria's largest PV carport system opened!

On May 23, 2025, the largest photovoltaic carport system with a public charging infrastructure in Bavaria was ceremoniously opened in Schönau am Königssee. This forward -looking project, initiated by Watzmann Natur Energie GmbH (WNE), is implemented in close cooperation with the municipality. Information from Bgland24 state that the system was built on an already sealed area, which spares environmental resources. Part of the opening ceremony included Bavaria's Minister of State Michaela Kaniber and Mayor Hannes Rasp.

The roof area of ​​the carport system comprises 4700 square meters and offers space for up to 273 vehicles. With an installed total output of 550 kWp, the solar modules already produce 59,310 kWh of electricity. Around 70 percent of this current flows directly into the parked electric cars, while the remaining energy is fed into the public network. According to Energy-Expert , however, the remuneration of carport's solar power is often considered unclear. The purpose of the carport and the type of installed solar system play a crucial role here.

modern infrastructure and award

The system also offers 62 charging points, each with 11 kW charging capacity, and 12 charging options for e-bikes and two barrier-free charging spaces. In addition to the sustainability of the carport system, an energy storage system and space for additional charging stations are also planned. This innovative project was awarded the Solar Prize 2024 of the Berchtesgaden Land, whereby the prize money of 1,000 euros was donated to Lebenshilfe Berchtesgadener Land e.V.

The municipality is not only active with this sustainable energy solution, but also plans to invest further: the modernization of the tourist information, the installation of an LED table and the renewal of the infrastructure for the fairground and a digital board for bus stops are on the agenda. All measures are financed without additional funding and without debt. The use of the carport is expected to be chargeable.

photovoltaics as a key technology in Bavaria

Bayern is already a leader in the use of photovoltaic systems, as the Bavarian State Ministry of Economics, State Development and Energy states. At the end of 2024 there will be over 1.1 million photovoltaic systems with more than 26 gigawatts of installed performance. In 2023, the Bavarian solar systems generated 16.1 TWH electricity, which corresponds to an increase of around 37 % within the past five years. These positive developments are supported by the promotion of innovative pilot projects and initiatives for the energy transition in the Free State, as information from stmwi.bayern.de In summary, it can be said that the newly opened photovoltaic carport facility in Schönau am Königssee not only ensures an environmentally friendly energy supply, but also serves as a showcase project for the integration of renewable energies into everyday life.