The first step is the technical survey: the load capacity and orientation of the roof, how much shared consumption can be replaced, and whether any shading factor reduces the payback. At this point an expert can give a concrete estimate in kilowatt hours and forints.
The second step is the decision: the general meeting must approve the investment, typically with a qualified majority. The proposal must include the total cost, any grant or loan funding, and the expected payback period, which for a well designed system is typically 6-10 years.
The third step is assembling the financing. Several programmes are available for solar investments, and it is worth combining them with own funds from the renovation fund, significantly reducing the actual burden on owners.
The fourth step is selecting the contractor and obtaining grid connection approval from the electricity provider. This administrative process often takes longer than the installation itself, so it is worth starting at the beginning of the project.
After installation the system's performance should be monitored regularly so actual savings can be compared with the planned figures.
It is also worth clarifying how the investment relates to future roof renovation: if the roof will need replacing within a few years, it is better to do that first, otherwise the panels may have to be temporarily dismantled.
Merbo's grant monitoring service continuously tracks current solar funding programmes and notifies the committee when an open source matching the building's profile becomes available.