Rising electricity prices in Germany have led to growing interest in balcony power plants. These small, easy-to-install photovoltaic systems can be purchased in supermarkets or online and installed on your own balcony. With an output of around 600 watts, they can be integrated into the power grid and cover part of a household's energy needs.
The number of balcony power plants installed has doubled this year. According to the Federal Network Agency, around 230,000 of these systems are currently in use in Germany, with more than half of them installed this year. The actual number could be even higher as not all systems are registered.
Balcony power plants are easy to install and inexpensive. A system usually consists of one or two solar modules and a small inverter that converts the direct current generated into alternating current. In some cities, the purchase and installation costs are covered by the government.
Although the contribution of an individual system to the energy supply is small, balcony power plants can make an important contribution to the energy transition. The German government recently approved a new funding program for photovoltaic systems that is intended to make it easier to expand balcony solar systems. The new guidelines are scheduled to be discussed in the fall and could come into force from 2024.
Previously, balcony power plants in Germany had to be registered with the Federal Network Agency. The new program is intended to enable apartment owners and tenants to install solar systems without the landlord's consent. In addition, the maximum power limit for small photovoltaic systems is to be increased from 600 to 800 watts.
Although the share of balcony power plants in the total electricity supply in Germany is still small, they could help reduce electricity prices and increase the acceptance of renewable energies. They are a simple and cost-effective way for tenants and homeowners to get started with solar energy production.
Balcony power plants are already widespread in some federal states. In Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, for example, there are five systems per 1,000 inhabitants. The government has already provided 10 million euros to support balcony power plants .
Overall, balcony power plants have the potential to make an important contribution to the energy transition in Germany. With government support, they could play a larger role in electricity supply in the future, helping to lower the price of electricity and reduce dependence on fossil fuels.