Balcony power plants are currently all the rage, and it's hard to ignore them. They offer a practical solution for city dwellers and renters who want to switch to solar power without the need for their own roof space. But is a balcony power plant really worthwhile for everyone, and what exactly is a balcony power plant?
A balcony power plant is a compact photovoltaic system specifically designed for installation on balconies, terraces, or in small gardens. These systems convert sunlight directly into electrical energy, which can either be used immediately or fed into the public grid. Another option is to purchase a balcony power plant with storage. This can, for example, be a Power station or even a complete Storage system This way, you can store and use the electricity even when the sun isn't shining.
But balcony power plants not only offer advantages, but there are also some hurdles that you have to overcome:
Performance limits:
Due to their size, balcony power plants have limited capacity and generally cannot cover a household's entire energy needs. Therefore, you are still dependent on the public power grid.
Dependence on weather conditions:
Like all solar systems, balcony power plants depend on solar radiation. In regions with fewer hours of sunshine, the energy yield may be lower.
Regulatory restrictions:
In some regions, there are specific regulations for the installation and use of balcony power systems. In Germany, the inverter is currently limited to 600 W. Furthermore, a balcony power system must be registered and a new electricity meter that cannot count backwards must be installed. In Austria, however, balcony power systems with an inverter of up to 800 W are permitted. The solar system must be registered with the grid operator. However, a complex permit is not required.
However, before you prematurely dismiss the idea of a balcony power plant, you should take a look at the advantages of balcony power plants in order to then decide whether a balcony power plant is really worthwhile:
Reducing electricity costs:
Balcony power plants can make a significant contribution to reducing your monthly electricity bill. If you're at home during the day and don't need much electricity in the evening, you can generate almost all of your own electricity on sunny days and use it directly.
Easy installation:
Many models are designed for quick and easy installation and often do not require a specialist for installation. PowerStream from EcoFlow can be connected directly to the Solar modules from Wattstunde Connect. Matching this there is also the Brackets in the online shop or the whole thing directly as Complete set.
Subsidies and feed-in tariffs:
Some countries offer financial incentives, such as feed-in tariffs or tax breaks, to encourage the use of balcony power plants. There is no central overview of all subsidies. However, it is advisable to contact your local municipality or city administration directly for information about current funding opportunities, as these programs are frequently updated and can vary from region to region. These local programs are a valuable resource for reducing the initial costs of balcony power plants and increasing their attractiveness.
To find out whether a balcony power plant is suitable for you, here are a few tips to help you make your decision:
Site evaluation:
Check whether your balcony or carport receives enough sunlight for the power plant to operate efficiently. Most balcony power plants come with different mounts, allowing you to choose the location. The Solarkontor online shop, for example, offers mounts for flat roofs and balconies. However, you also have the option of mounting the solar modules on the wall or on the roof.
Analysis of your own electricity needs:
Determine your average electricity consumption to determine the size of the balcony power plant you need.
Budgeting:
Consider the purchase and installation costs, as well as potential long-term savings. Also consider whether you want a balcony power plant with or without storage.
The costs for a balcony power plant vary depending on performance and quality. Typically, prices range between €400 and €1,500 without storage. With storage, prices start at around €5,000. The payback period depends on factors such as the local electricity price and your own electricity consumption. The system often pays for itself within a few years.
Balcony power plants are an attractive and increasingly popular option for urban households and renters interested in environmentally friendly and cost-efficient energy generation. The decision to install a balcony power plant depends on individual factors such as location, energy needs, and budget. If these conditions are favorable, a balcony power plant can be a worthwhile investment, offering both financial and environmental benefits. It is important to make an informed decision based on thorough research and consideration of all factors.
Of course, our experts are available to provide you with precise calculations, valuable tips and advice for a personalized consultation and quote, helping you answer the question of whether a balcony power plant is really worth it for you!
