Balcony power plants, also known as plug-in solar systems, are currently in high demand. And for good reason: these small power plants can be easily installed on your balcony and generate electricity for your direct use. Why are more and more people interested in them? Firstly, a balcony power plant can sustainably reduce your electricity costs, and secondly, it makes you less dependent on fluctuating electricity prices. If you're worried about technical or legal requirements, rest assured: these are minimal for the installation and operation of balcony power plants. And this applies not only to homeowners but also to renters.
Construction of a balcony power plant
Balcony power plants typically operate at 230 volts, the standard voltage in German households. The smallest balcony power plant consists of just a few components.
- solar panel
- inverter
- Connection cable
- Power inlet socket
Once these three elements are connected and sunlight hits the solar panel, your power plant will generate electricity. The inverter converts the direct current (DC) into alternating current (AC). The power output is, of course, highly dependent on the orientation of your balcony. As a homeowner, in addition to the balcony, you also have the option of mounting the small power plant on a facade or a canopy. If your balcony is in the shade all day, you should reconsider purchasing one. Ideally, the modules should face south without shading and be tilted at an angle of 30°–40°. For the connection between the inverter and the electrical grid, you should use a permanently installed wall socket, not a power strip. Wieland feed-in sockets or Schuko plugs are suitable. The feed-in socket must be protected by a circuit breaker.
If you need more information, feel free to check out our assembly instructions for balcony power plants !
How do I size my balcony power plant?
Legal regulations stipulate that the maximum output of a balcony power plant must not exceed 600 watts. If you wish to operate a more powerful plant, you must obtain the necessary permits. However, this 600 watts refers to the output of the modules under optimal conditions. This means, as mentioned above, a south-facing orientation without shading and an inclination of 30°–40°. Furthermore, this means that your balcony power plant may well be capable of producing more than 600 watts, as optimal conditions are rarely met. Alternatively, there are inverters with a 600-watt limit, so you don't need to worry about exceeding any legal restrictions.
The minimal legal requirements make balcony power plants very attractive.
Balcony power plants are considered plug-in systems. This means that the solar panel is directly connected to the inverter, from which a cable with a plug leads out. They are therefore mini-photovoltaic systems that can be quickly and easily plugged into a standard electrical outlet. The generated energy can then be fed directly into your home's electrical system. Unlike conventional photovoltaic systems, plug-in systems do not require any permits. However, this does not mean that you don't need to register your balcony power plant with your local grid operator. This is mandatory even for plug-in systems. But don't worry, this registration is very straightforward and is done via a form that you can obtain upon request. In addition to registration, registration in the trademark register of the Federal Network Agency is required. This is free of charge and should be completed no later than one month after initial commissioning. Due to their compact design, balcony power plants are generally considered to provide privacy. Therefore, unless your landlord has included regulations regarding the installation of objects on the balcony in your rental agreement, and the installation is not intended to take place outside the balcony, you typically do not need your landlord's permission. This can vary from case to case, so it's best to double-check. Remember: As long as your system doesn't exceed the 600W limit, there are no further formal requirements. And you don't need to be an electrician to install your balcony power plant; even a layperson can easily manage the installation.
Is a balcony power plant worthwhile for me?
Do you have appliances that use electricity continuously during the day? Then a balcony power plant can quickly pay for itself. If you need electricity when it's being generated (e.g., for any home office equipment), a balcony power plant will reliably supply you with power. Keep in mind that the electricity cannot be stored and used later; it's intended for immediate use. Do you have any further questions about balcony power plants or are you unsure whether a purchase is worthwhile for you? Then we'd be happy to advise you by phone. Alternatively, you can also send us an email.
