Table of Content
What is a balcony solar system?
By now, you may be familiar with the idea of using rooftop or ground-mounted solar installations for houses that have suitable roof or garden space, with ample sunlight and minimal shade.
But what if you don't have access to a garden or a usable roof?
The good news is that you can still harness solar power, even if you live in an apartment or a non-traditional house. A great alternative for apartment dwellers who want their own solar power supply is a balcony solar system.
Balcony solar systems, also known as mini solar systems, are compact and efficient solutions for generating your own electricity using the power of the sun.
In recent years, balcony systems have become popular due to their accessibility and easy installation. In most cases, all you need to do is clip the balcony system onto the balcony railings, plug it in, and you're ready to go!
Why you need a balcony solar system?
Firstly, balcony solar systems are much easier to install compared to some traditional solar panel systems, which often have complex wiring paths to connect.
Also known as plug-in solar systems, balcony systems can directly connect to your home circuit by simply plugging into a socket. These sockets, commonly known as Schuko plugs and outlets in Europe, offer new possibilities for property owners.
Users can easily plug their balcony solar system into a wall outlet and start generating electricity, without the need for expensive professional panel design and assessment. This means that complicated installations are a thing of the past for those who invest in plug-in solar devices.
Additionally, balcony solar systems are just as easy to unplug and take with you when you move homes, saving you time and money on new panels every time you relocate.
Furthermore, balcony solar panels don't require registration with the operator like traditional roof- or ground-mounted systems do. Normally, when you connect your solar panels to the main grid, you need to report to the operator. However, if your solar system falls under the European upper limit standard of 800 W, there is no need to register with an operator.
The German standard differs slightly, with a cap of 600 W. But this may soon change, as a proposal to increase the standard to 800 W was drafted by VDE (Verband der Elektrotechnik Elektronik Informationstechnik e.V.) in January 2023. The aim is to make it easier for users in Germany to access solar energy through mini power generation systems, in addition to traditional roof- or ground-mounted solar systems.
See to our Balcony Power Plant BP200 Battery
What is the new 800W German standard?
As one of Europe's largest technology organizations, VDE has been dedicated to delivering the highest level of quality standards and ensuring consumer protection for over 100 years.
The organization's mission is not only to promote environmental friendliness in households, but also to ensure household safety and regulatory compliance in relation to solar energy guidance.
After careful consideration, VDE has proposed a new maximum power output of 800W for balcony solar systems in Germany. This proposal aims to enhance the quality and safety of photovoltaic installations.
The proposed standard aligns with the existing European standard of 800 W and introduces new testing and certification requirements. These requirements ensure that solar systems meet specific performance standards, including additional thermal cycling, damp heat, and mechanical stress testing.
This development represents a significant step forward in solar energy for balcony systems, as it enables German households to effectively utilize solar energy for their electricity needs. Additionally, it removes potential barriers that may discourage German residents from exploring the possibilities of solar energy.
While VDE recommends professional electricians for installations, there is a growing need for global households and properties to become more sustainable and environmentally friendly. Therefore, in order to facilitate the widespread use of balcony solar systems, VDE supports the use of the Schuko plug for supplies up to a total system limit of 800W.
By aligning the German standard with the European standard, it is expected that more users will be encouraged to switch to solar energy. Furthermore, the use of mini solar systems with any type of meter will make solar energy more accessible to all.
What components do you need in your balcony solar system?
There are four key components that are necessary for the safe and effective running of your balcony solar system. Every piece of equipment is equally as important as the next, each serving a critical role in the production of energy for your home. The crucial components of every balcony solar PV system are made up of:
Solar panels: Naturally, the solar panels are the stars of the show. These are the panels that will absorb light from the sun and convert it into DC energy, which then passes through to the microinverter to be converted again. This energy can also be stored in a battery ready for use later, when the sun is no longer shining.
More to read "EVERYTHING TO KNOW ABOUT BALCONY SOLAR PANELS"
Mounting rack: The mounting rack is the framework that helps to fix your solar panels on your balcony safely – ensuring that there’s no wriggle room when mounting your balcony solar system is critical. It’s designed to be sturdy and long lasting, so that your PV system can continue generating electricity for years to come, without the need to replace parts.
Microinverter: This is the component that brings the magic right into your home. The microinverter converts the DC electricity that is produced by the solar panels into AC electricity, ready for use in the household. What’s most impressive about our microinverter is that it tracks the maximum power point (MPP) of each solar panel so that each of your solar panels always works at its optimum level — thereby maximizing your solar harvest.
Main power cable: The main power cable enables you to plug your system into a socket and connect it to your home circuit. This component is unique to balcony solar PV systems, which are plug-in-and-play appliances, unlike their traditional solar system counterparts. It means that users can simply insert the plug into an available and aptly placed socket in their home and begin generating electricity — it really is that simple.
The specific number of components and the size of the solar system will depend on the needs of the user, and how much energy they wish to produce.
However, these are the standard items you should expect to need for a fully functioning balcony solar PV system. Larger systems with multiple solar panels may need more microinverters than a smaller system with just one or two panels.
Another factor to consider is the space available to house the solar PV system. If you’re installing your system on a balcony, it’s expected that you may only need one or two panels to form your entire system.
If you are unsure about the number of components you might need, or the type of setup that’s suitable for your property, you should always consult with a professional prior to installation.
Is it worth in investing in balcony solar in 2024?
If you happen to live in an area with an abundance of sunlight but you find yourself living in a property that doesn’t support traditional solar panel systems, balcony panels are definitely worth considering.
With energy prices rising and the need to be more sustainable constantly growing, a balcony solar panel system is a worthy investment. One that can end up paying dividends in the future. Offsetting the cost of your energy bills can’t be understated.
However, to ensure you’re making a solid investment, it’s always wise to consult with a professional who can evaluate your property alongside your energy needs. They can help you make an informed decision on whether this will be a good investment for you or not.
If you’d like to know more, or you’re ready to speak to one of our experts about how we can help, get in touch with us today. One of our friendly team members will be more than happy to discuss this with you.
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