In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, Dutch solar product distributor ENIE is implementing its ZonneRuilen Program to purchase existing solar rooftop installations. As per the program, the firm is offering to buy installed rooftop systems for around 85% of their initial cost. This way, customers with these solarphotovoltaic (PV) systems get some liquidity during the uncertain times. ENIE then leases out these systems to the same property owners for a lease period of ten years, after which the customers have the option to buy the system back.

Somik Das, Power Analyst at GlobalData, comments:“The Netherlands is among the countries that have been highly affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. There is a widespread cash crunch among citizens due to closed businesses and unpaid wages.

“ENIE’s rooftop solar PV lease models is expected to be quite profitable as the company is pushing the initiative through at the right time, creating a win-win situation for both themselves and the consumers. ENIE acquires several rooftop generation assets for 85% of the cost and builds its solar leasing business model. More solar installers that are strong on liquidity may follow this route in the coming months in an attempt to popularize the solar PV leasing business model.”