
Solar energy RIP? Spain plans to slap huge fines on people who don't pay a new charge for homeowners who produce their own solar power.
As if Spaniards had not already been dissuaded by the potential €60 million fines they face for illegally generating their own solar power, they now have to look forward to a knock on the door from the 'solar police'.
A change to the ruling Popular Party's (PP) Energy Law allows inspectors to "raid" properties they are suspicious of, armed only with administrative authorization.
If the suspect denies entry, Spain's Industry Department will then ask for a court order that guarantees inspectors access to the property alongside Spanish national police.
Officers will be able to seize all documents related to to energy consumption and seal off entry to the property.
Lawyers consulted by Spain's VozPopuli online newspaper raised serious doubts about whether the move was constitutional.
They also said it set a worrying precedent by obliging citizens to let inspectors enter a private residence.
All this means generating your own solar energy without paying for the privilege is a risky business now in Spain.












