0% VAT Batteries – Policy overview

  1. Customers from Germany and Ukraine can select the 0% VAT option at checkout and shop tax-free, provided the order meets the legal requirements.
  2. Customers from other EU countries can also benefit from 0% VAT when a German delivery address is provided at checkout.
  3. Business customers should first order at the regular gross price and then send their VAT ID number for verification to support@lithink.de.
    After successful verification, the corresponding VAT will be refunded.
  4. All orders with 0% VAT are shipped from our German warehouse.
    Delivery time is typically 2–3 business days within Germany and 3–5 business days to other EU countries.
    Returns are also processed through our German warehouse.

Brief Explanation of VAT Exemption

  • Since 01.01.2023, a value added tax rate of 0 % (§ 12 Abs. 3 UStG) applies in Germany to certain photovoltaic systems and their essential components – this also includes suitable battery storage systems –.
  • The regulation generally applies to systems that are on or near residential buildings or buildings used for charitable purposes and whose installed gross capacity is recorded in the market master data register as no more than 30 kWp.
  • If a corresponding Lithink battery storage is used as part of such a PV system and all legal requirements are met, the purchase can be invoiced with 0 % VAT.

Note: These notes do not replace tax advice. In case of doubt, please consult your tax advisor or the responsible tax office.

To the statutory text § 12 PARA. 3 UStG

Order tax-free at Lithink

If you meet the requirements of § 12(3) UStG, you can order selected Lithink battery storage systems with 0% VAT. How it works:

  • On the product page, choose the item marked accordingly with 0% VAT.
  • Add it to the cart and complete the order at checkout as usual.

Important:

  1. The tax exemption only applies if all legal requirements (e.g., an eligible installation and an appropriate delivery address) are met.
  2. Lithink reserves the right to request proof if necessary and, where applicable, to charge the regular VAT retroactively.

Learn more about the VAT exemption for photovoltaic systems

1. Under what conditions does the 0% VAT for batteries apply?

The 0% VAT may apply if the battery storage is used as part of an eligible photovoltaic system within the meaning of § 12 para. 3 UStG. This includes, for example, a PV system on or near a residential building with up to 30 kWp.

2. Which Lithink products are intended for this?

Only certain Lithink battery storage systems are eligible for the 0% VAT. These products are clearly marked on the product page as “0% VAT”.

3. How do I order a battery with 0% VAT?

Select the appropriately marked item on the product page, add it to your shopping cart and complete the order as usual. It is important that your installation and the delivery address comply with legal requirements.

4. I already purchased with VAT — can I get the tax refunded?

In some cases a subsequent correction is possible if all requirements are met and you can provide supporting documents. In that case, please write to us with your order number at support@lithink.de.

Does the 0% VAT also apply if my delivery address is abroad?

The regulation primarily applies to orders with a suitable German delivery address. Different tax rules may apply for other countries – if in doubt, consult your tax advisor.

6. Does a battery in the motorhome or boat also count as an eligible installation?

Only if it is firmly integrated into an eligible PV system, for example permanently used on a residential building or at a fixed location. For purely mobile applications, the tax exemption generally does not apply.

7. Do I need to provide any documentation?

Yes, we may ask you to provide a brief confirmation or documentation for your PV system. If anything is unclear, we will contact you by e-mail after your order.

8. Does this FAQ replace tax advice?

No. This information is for guidance only. Only your tax advisor or the competent tax office can provide binding information.