The transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy is one of the most important building blocks in the transformation to climate neutrality. The university is a pioneer among German universities in the expansion of photovoltaic systems on its own roofs – PV systems are installed on 100% of the available roof space.

The first major expansion of solar modules took place in 2017 on the Haarentor campus on the library, building A02 (the "bridge" over Uhlhornsweg), the domed roof of the lecture hall centre and other buildings. In 2019, the Wechloy campus was equipped with photovoltaic modules in the area of the main building and the NeSSy research building. In 2022, systems on the sports building, the fitness and health centre and the A14 lecture hall centre went into operation. In 2024, further systems were added to the NeSSy research building, the open-air hall, the Language Centre, the new research and training centre and the ring level in Wechloy.

The systems are financed in part by the European Union's Structural Fund (EFRE) and through intracting from the university's own funds. 

A further increase in photovoltaic output can be achieved in the future through new buildings or the structural renovation of older buildings whose roofs are not currently suitable for solar installations.