ZEV for specialist partners: implementing it correctly from a technical perspective

ZEV briefly explained

Self-consumption behind a shared building connection point

A ZEV is technically easy to classify, but it must be carefully planned, measured, documented and registered.

In a self-consumption association, several end consumers use locally produced solar power within a building or between connected or privately linked buildings. The ZEV acts as a single joint customer vis-à-vis BKW. The ZEV organises internal distribution, metering and billing itself.

Focus for specialist partners

What matters in planning, implementation and consulting

A ZEV requires clear technical foundations, correct regulatory classification and transparent communication with end customers.

Smiling person in a red roll-neck jumper against a blue sky

Technical implementation

Technical planning determines whether the ZEV functions correctly and can be inspected by BKW.

Procedure

Technically sound from concept to activation

Specialist partners ensure correct implementation throughout planning, submission, execution and commissioning.

The ZEV must be applied for with BKW at least three months before the planned activation. An early review prevents delays in metering, domestic installation and billing.

01

Check feasibility

Check the grid connection point, production capacity, consumption capacity, ownership and participation arrangements, as well as the planned internal metering.

02

Create metering and installation concept

Define ZEV meters, private meters, production metering, the metering scheme and the necessary adjustments to the building installation.

03

Submit application and documents

Complete the application with the installation notice, metering diagram, site plan and any other supporting documents. Submit all documents in full.

04

Await BKW review

BKW reviews the application and sends the approval to the electrical installer.

05

Implement installation

Carry out the approved installation, coordinate meter removal, ZEV meters and private metering, and document the execution.

06

Instruct end customers

Explain the final invoice, new billing logic, internal responsibilities, mutation process and responsibilities within the ZEV.

Open ZEV portal

Regulation and operation

Clear roles prevent misunderstandings later

A ZEV is not only a technical project, but also an organisational and regulatory construct.

BKW bills electricity drawn from the public grid and feed-in to the ZEV contact person. The internal distribution of locally produced electricity, private metering, cost allocation and contracts between participants are the responsibility of the ZEV.

Frequently asked questions

Answers for specialist partners

Key information on technology, registration, regulation and consulting for the ZEV.

These answers support specialist partners in planning, submission and customer consultations.

Downloads

Documents for implementation and consultation

The most important documents for specialist partners on the association for self-consumption.

Use the documents for technical clarifications, customer discussions and correct submission.

Special Terms and Conditions: self-consumption community (ZEV) and virtual self-consumption community (vZEV) (PDF, 117 kB)

Download

Self-consumption association: free market access (PDF, 100 kB)

Download

BKW supports specialist partners with questions about registration, technical inspections, metering concepts, changes and the correct implementation of a merger for self-consumption.