A franchise for entrepreneurs in the photovoltaic industry

SolarToday is a Dutch company that operates in the renewable energy sector, focusing on the wholesale distribution of photovoltaic (PV) systems. Its business model is designed for the B2B market. Franchisees do not sell to end customers, but to professional installers and renewable energy companies. The product range includes solar panels, inverters, mounting systems, energy storage solutions, as well as control and monitoring equipment. All components meet European quality standards and are sourced from verified manufacturers. The brand’s goal is to provide solar professionals with reliable access to certified components. SolarToday ensures continuous product availability, stable pricing, and logistical support for timely deliveries. The franchise model replicates this operational standard in new regional locations.

Franchise presence in Europe

The SolarToday network originated in the Netherlands, where the company still has its headquarters in Barneveld. Over the years, the company has developed franchise branches in Belgium, Germany, France, and Poland. The franchisor is now focusing on expanding into other European markets, especially in Central and Eastern Europe, where demand for solar energy systems is rising quickly. The company selects territories based on solar energy development trends, local government support for renewables, and the maturity of the installer market.

Investment requirements and financial terms

To start a SolarToday franchise, entrepreneurs must be prepared to invest between €150,000 and €300,000. The exact amount depends on the location, warehouse size, and staffing needs. The initial franchise fee is approximately €20,000. This payment covers access to the business model, training, systems, and branding rights. Franchisees also need to secure working capital of at least €100,000. These funds are used to build the first product inventory and cover fixed operating costs in the early months. SolarToday recommends starting with a warehouse space of 300 to 500 square meters to allow for regular turnover and storage of diverse stock. Franchisees pay a monthly royalty, usually between 1.5% and 3% of net turnover. The rate depends on territory size and services provided centrally by the franchisor.

What the franchisor provides

SolarToday offers its franchisees full operational support. This includes access to an established supply chain of PV manufacturers, standardized pricing tools, and the company’s internal ordering and inventory management system. Franchisees receive technical training covering product knowledge, customer service, and warehouse operations. Before opening, SolarToday helps the new branch set up logistics, selects initial stock, and assists in warehouse preparation. The franchisor also provides marketing support, including promotional materials and guidelines for local campaigns. After opening, franchisees benefit from continuous assistance. Regular meetings, audits, and updates ensure all locations follow the same quality standards. Franchisees also have access to the SolarToday logistics center, which handles deliveries from international suppliers.

Who Can Join the Network?

The SolarToday franchise is intended for professionals with experience in business-to-business sales or the electrical or construction sectors. It is not a passive investment but a business requiring active local management. Candidates should be familiar with the local market and ideally already have contacts with solar installers, EPC contractors, or building companies. English is required for communication with headquarters. Knowledge of the local market language is essential for sales and customer service. SolarToday looks for partners who are ready to manage warehouse operations, hire technical staff, and take care of sales and client relationships.

How to start a SolarToday franchise

The process of joining the network begins with filling out a contact form on the SolarToday website or sending a direct inquiry. After an initial conversation, the company arranges a meeting to assess the local market and the candidate’s readiness to run a technical wholesale business. Applicants then prepare a basic business and financial plan, after which they receive training in logistics, software systems, and product knowledge. Once the agreement is signed, the franchisee chooses a warehouse and begins organizing operations. The full process from first contact to launch usually takes between three and five months. SolarToday provides guidance at every step of the process.