Question 1

What is UPGRID?

Accepted Answer

UPGRID is a Swiss energy platform that connects local solar producers directly with consumers in their community. We enable peer-to-peer energy trading, allowing producers to earn more for their solar energy and consumers to buy clean, local electricity at fair prices.

Question 2

How does it work?

Accepted Answer

UPGRID creates local energy communities (LEG) where members can trade electricity directly. Solar producers sell their excess energy to nearby consumers through our platform, bypassing traditional utilities. We handle all the billing, metering, and administrative tasks.

Question 3

Who can join UPGRID?

Accepted Answer

Anyone in Switzerland can join! Whether you're a solar producer looking to earn more from your panels, a consumer wanting clean local energy, or a property owner interested in monetizing your roof space, UPGRID has options for you.

Question 4

How much does it cost to join?

Accepted Answer

Joining UPGRID varies by your role. Consumers typically pay competitive rates for electricity, while producers earn better rates than traditional feed-in tariffs. We offer transparent pricing with no hidden fees. Contact us for a personalized quote.

Question 5

What is a Local Energy Community (LEG)?

Accepted Answer

A LEG (Lokale Elektrizitätsgemeinschaft) is a legal framework in Switzerland that allows local groups to produce, consume, and trade electricity within their community. It's designed to promote renewable energy and energy independence at the local level. Learn how LEG compares to ZEV and VZEV.

Question 6

Do I need solar panels to join?

Accepted Answer

No! You can join as a consumer and buy clean energy from your neighbors. Read more about how solar works for renters. If you want to generate income from solar but don't have panels yet, we offer financing options or roof leasing programs where we install and manage the system for you.

Question 7

How much can I earn selling solar energy?

Accepted Answer

Earnings vary based on your system size and production, but UPGRID producers typically earn 20-40% more than traditional feed-in tariffs by selling directly to local consumers. Use our solar earnings calculator to estimate your returns. We provide transparent dashboards so you can track your production and earnings in real-time.

Question 8

Who handles maintenance and technical issues?

Accepted Answer

For systems we finance or install through roof leasing, UPGRID handles all maintenance. If you own your own solar system, you're responsible for maintenance, but we provide support and monitoring through our platform to help you maximize performance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about UPGRID and local energy communities