Māris Dembovskis, a solar panel owner in Latvia, invested approximately 11,000 euros in a solar energy system without batteries last year, with part of the cost covered by the state. He primarily uses the generated electricity for typical household needs and previously had an average monthly bill of 70 euros throughout the year. In the summer months, he enjoys credits from his net metering system that can even lead to a negative bill. However, as the colder months approach, the situation changes dramatically with significantly higher charges.

Dembovskis has kept detailed records of his electricity usage and production, allowing him to track expenses closely. His bills throughout the cold months depict a stark reality: in October, he paid 40 euros, followed by 85 euros in November, and 105 euros in December 2025, with an increase to 117 euros in January 2026. This considerable uptick highlights the challenges solar panel owners face in Latvia during the winter when sunlight is scarce, impacting their electricity generation capabilities.

The implications of these rising costs for solar panel owners could deter potential investors or individuals considering the switch to renewable energy. It raises questions about the sustainability and practicality of solar energy solutions in regions with long winters, prompting a discussion about how to make such technologies more viable for everyday use in less sunny months.