Solar Energy on German Balconies: A Growing Trend and its Perks
The Rising Tide
Around a fourth of Germans express readiness for solar installations on balconies.
Germany has witnessed a swift rise in balcony solar installations with over 780,000 systems now in place, thanks to favorable policies and incentives for both renters and homeowners[1]. This trend is set to grow further, with nearly a quarter of Germans open to solar panel installation on their balconies, as per a recent survey[2].
Storing that Solar Energy
Germany is also embracing energy storage solutions for balcony solar systems. The government's encouragement, along with relaxed installation thresholds, has made these portable power stations a popular choice for various scenarios[4].
The Incentives
Renters' Rejoice!
In cities like Berlin, renters can benefit from the SolarPLUS program, which offers up to €500 to help cover installation costs[1][3]. This makes balcony solar systems a more affordable and accessible option for tenants.
VAT Exemptions
The EU's Green Deal has led to VAT exemptions for balcony photovoltaic systems in Germany. This reduction in upfront costs encourages more people to invest in solar energy[5].
Policy Support for Tenants
German law allows tenants to install solar panels on their balconies without landlord interference (unless there are valid technical reasons). Simplified online registration with the Federal Network Agency makes the process straightforward[1][4].
Safety and Grid Compatibility
Safety and grid compatibility are ensured for plug-in systems through the DIN VDE 0126-95 standard[1].
A Few More Perks
- Installation of balcony solar systems usually requires a micro-inverter or DC optimizer to ensure the system produces grid-compatible AC power[5].
- Incentives may also support more efficient systems, enhancing power generation capabilities[5].
The cost of a balcony solar system, ranging from 500 to 800 euros, is said to be recovered within two and a half to five years. If the system serves a 20-year lifespan, it can result in savings of around 3160 euros in electricity costs[2]. However, the orientation and placement of the panels play a crucial role in determining their yield. Ideal conditions include a south-facing balcony with modules mounted at a slight angle and no shadows[2].
- The growth in balcony solar installations in Germany has been immense, with over 780,000 systems currently in place, driven by favorable policies and incentives that cater to both renters and homeowners.
- As more Germans show interest in solar energy, the trend toward balcony solar systems is expected to continue, with a survey suggesting that nearly a quarter of the population is open to installing solar panels on their balconies.
- Energy storage solutions for balcony solar systems are also gaining popularity in Germany, as the government encourages their use along with relaxed installation thresholds.
- Renters in cities like Berlin can take advantage of the SolarPLUS program, offering up to €500 to assist with installation costs, making balcony solar systems more accessible and affordable for tenants.
- The EU's Green Deal has led to VAT exemptions for balcony photovoltaic systems in Germany, a reduction in upfront costs that encourages more people to invest in solar energy.
