DZR: weaknesses in the permit system for construction of photovoltaic power plants
Audit for 2022–May 2025 warns of insufficient oversight, inconsistent data and lack of subordinate regulations.
The State Audit Office (DZR) found that in the period from 2022 to May 2025 the system for issuing permits for the construction of photovoltaic power plants (PV plants) did not ensure full legal compliance, timely planning and coordinated action by institutions.
Key findings from the audit
The auditors noted that some PV plant projects were approved without following the appropriate legal procedures. In three specific cases, permits for facilities with capacities of 19, 174 and 337 MW were issued by municipalities, even though these are constructions of state significance.
The report also points to weaknesses in institutional coordination, oversight and monitoring of the fulfillment of investors' obligations. It further found inconsistent data on installed capacity, different treatment of investors and insufficient interoperability between institutions.
The audit notes that municipal supervision of the implementation of energy regulations was practically absent, while inspection checks of technical equipment in PV plants were few, which hindered tracking the rapid growth of available capacity.
DZR points out that after amendments to the Law on Energy in May 2025 there are improvements in planning, and the Annual Plan for construction of energy facilities for 2026 was adopted on time. However, the auditors warn that some key subordinate regulations have still not been adopted, the commission for granting construction authorizations for energy facilities has not been formed, and the registry of power plants is incomplete and inconsistent.
In conclusion, the auditors recommend strengthening oversight, monitoring and institutional coordination so that the growth of PV plants is accompanied by lawful and sustainable management.
Photo: press material from the event
