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Alongside wind power, the expansion of photovoltaics (PV) is essential for the success of the energy transition. It is to be expected that, in addition to roof-top PV systems, a significant proportion of the expansion will take place through ground-mounted PV systems, as these are more cost-effective and can be realized more easily. Planning law will therefore need to designate  sufficient areas suitable for these systems in the coming years. At present, however, the designation of land for ground-mounted PV systems is not linked to the amount actually needed to reach the climate targets, let alone the targets for the expansion of PV, so that is uncertain whether the designated land is sufficient to reach them.

Against this background, the QuantPV-BW project investigates ways in which the designation of land for ground-mounted PV systems could be regulated. The project takes the perspective of the state legislator in Baden-Württemberg and explicitly examines the options for quantitative control regulation within its area of competence. In essence, the study focuses on concepts of command-and-control regulation. In addition, the extent to which the state legislator could rely on softer forms of control by means of incentives and information is examined. Furthermore, indirect possibilities for action by the state are also identified. These in turn require changes in federal law in order to enable Baden-Württemberg and the other federal states to improve the designation of land for the  expansion of ground-mounted PV systems.