Generating and consuming electricity yourself is the trend. However, not everyone can put a large solar system on their roof. An alternative for tenants and apartment owners are plug-in solar devices for the balcony or terrace. The energy advice from the Baden-Württemberg Consumer Center explains the function and benefits.
The DIY solution: balcony power station connected to the socket
Plug-in solar devices convert sunlight into electrical energy and are therefore household appliances that generate electricity for your own use. They can be installed, connected and used by private individuals themselves on balcony parapets, external walls, roofs, terraces and gardens.
For rental and condominiums, the consent of the landlord or the homeowners' association is required before attachment to the balcony railing or the house wall. However, a module can be placed on the balcony without consent.
How do balcony power plants work?
Plug-in solar devices are made up of standard solar modules and an inverter that converts the direct current from the solar system into 230-volt alternating current for the household. The self-generated electricity flows into the socket on the balcony and from there supplies the television, refrigerator or washing machine that are connected to other sockets in the apartment.
Plug-in solar devices usually consist of one or two solar modules. A typical plug-in solar module is 1.00 meters by 1.70 meters and has an output of around 300 watts. A 300-watt module costs around 500 euros with an inverter and, depending on the location, generates 200 to 300 kilowatt hours of electricity per year. Additional costs for the assembly device may need to be calculated.
- Modules that face the south without being shaded provide the best yield.
- The devices must be installed storm-proof.
- It may be necessary to replace the meter: If the plug-in solar device has an output of less than 800 watts and the grid feedback from the solar device is less than four percent of the annual electricity consumption, any meter is suitable. However, if there is a higher level of grid feedback, a meter with a backstop is required for legally compliant operation.
A little digression: solar tables – another trend for balconies and terraces?
How can you use a photovoltaic module to promote the energy transition, even with small components? New or used solar modules as a table top are ideal. Because they can withstand hail and heavy snow loads on roofs, and are therefore insensitive. Only table legs still need to be attached. An inverter is also necessary to process the electricity generated so that it can be fed into the in-house power grid via the socket.
You can find more in-depth information on the topic of plug-in solar devices at the German Society for Solar Energy eV and in the FAQ at https://www.pvplug.de/faq/ .
If you have any questions about photovoltaics, the energy advice from the consumer advice centers can help with its extensive offering. The consultation takes place online, by telephone or in a personal conversation. Our energy experts provide individual, provider-independent advice. More information is available at www.verbraucherzentrale-energieberatung.de or nationwide free of charge on 0800 – 809 802 400 . The consumer advice center's energy advice is funded by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Protection.
Information on the topic can be found in our free online lectures at: https://verbraucherzentrale-energieberatung.de/projekte/ .
Source: Baden-Württemberg Consumer Center
Related:
Are fines due when operating balcony power plants?
Balcony power plant: solar system also for tenants
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