The energy crisis in Europe has highlighted the urgent need for sustainable and renewable energy solutions. As the demand for solar systems continues to grow, balcony solar systems have emerged as a viable option for homeowners and apartment dwellers. The balcony solar system is a flexible and efficient solution for harnessing the power of the sun to generate power for household use. This system typically consists of essential components including a solar panel, a microinverter, a bracket and cables. In this article, we will explore why balcony solar systems are gaining popularity in Europe and the factors to consider when choosing the right system.
Balcony solar systems are gaining popularity for residential premises looking to source their energy sustainability and there are a number of reasons for this trend. One of these is space optimization. In smaller dwellings and for renters and apartment owners who do not have access to a roof for solar installation, traditional large-scale solar systems may not be a feasible option. However, small-scale solar systems can be easily installed on a balcony, to maximize the utilization of limited space by converting sunlight into electricity, thereby meeting the energy needs of these homeowners.
Cost effectiveness is another big advantage of these small-scale models. Compared to large-scale solar systems, one of the key benefits of balcony solar systems is their plug-and-play characteristics. This feature means that they can be installed by individuals without the need for professional help from solar installers, which significantly reduces the overall costs involved.
Cost savings are clear in the statistics too; while Germany’s average system price for rooftop PV systems rose by 10% to €1,557/kW in Q2 2023 according to EUPD Research figures, balcony solar systems offer a more affordable alternative.
Another compelling reason for homeowners to choose a balcony solar system is the availability of incentives and other supportive policies. Numerous governments around the world are introducing financial incentives, such as tax breaks and rebates to homeowners who install small-scale solar systems, all in a bid to reach their carbon neutral targets and switch their population to green energy. These incentives mitigate the initial costs of the systems to some extent, making them a more affordable option and therefore attractive to domestic customers.
For instance, in Germany, solar installations with a capacity not exceeding 600 W are exempt from registration with local energy departments, streamlining the bureaucratic process. And there’s also a draft to loosen the restriction further, to 800 W. Germany is moving towards mandating the installation of solar panels on certain types of buildings during construction and renovation projects and time will tell if other regions will follow a similar path.
Now that we have explored the reasons behind the already immense and growing popularity of small-scale balcony solar systems, let’s dive deeper into the process of selecting the most suitable system for your property.
Factors to consider when choosing a balcony solar system
Available space
Before determining the type of balcony solar system your home needs, it is important to first consider the structural integrity and load-bearing capacity of your balcony. Solar panels can be heavy, so it is essential to determine whether your balcony can support the additional weight before making the switch. You should also check the dimensions of the space available. Measure the length of the railing and assess whether the area can accommodate the size of the solar panels.
As the pioneer of balcony solar systems globally, TSUN provides different mounting options, including railings, walls, and ground installations, allowing for customization based on the available space.
Aesthetics
Integrating balcony PV systems with the architectural design of a building is crucial, as it ensures a harmonious visual appearance. One option to achieve this is by choosing an all-black system, that not only includes the solar panels but also the bracket and screws for a completely streamlined and cohesive look.
TSUN also offers a vertical system that facilitates effortless integration into the railing or the wall. This arrangement allows for a sleek and unobtrusive installation, maximizing the use of available space without compromising the building’s design.
Flexibility
This is a crucial factor to consider when selecting a balcony solar system. A system that is easy to install, disassemble, and relocate brings multiple advantages, including cost savings in transportation and enhanced adaptability.
The company addresses this need with its Easy Solar Kit Pop-up, a pre-installed balcony system that simply needs to be unfolded and plugged in, making it ready for use almost straight from the box. Additionally, it offers lightweight panels for its balcony solar systems, enabling easy relocation should the owner of the system move to a different property. This feature is particularly beneficial for renters who may need to move apartments, allowing them to take their solar PV system along. This flexibility not only provides convenience, but also ensures that solar energy can be harnessed regardless of changing living situations.
Components
As a balcony solar system consists of a panel, a microinverter and a bracket, choosing high-quality components is crucial for long-term performance and maximum electricity generation within the limited balcony space.
When choosing solar panels, it is important to consider their efficiency and how they will affect the overall performance of the system. The efficiency of a solar panel refers to the amount of sunlight it can convert into usable electricity. The higher the efficiency, the more electricity the panel can produce. TSUN provides a balcony solar system with tier one high-efficiency panels, which provide a higher return on investment in the long run.
The microinverter, being a vital component of the solar system, plays a crucial role in ensuring its safety and efficiency. TSUN provides microinverters with excellent heat dissipation, effectively enhancing conversion efficiency. These microinverters also feature intelligent monitoring capabilities, allowing users to conveniently view, save, and analyze the system output data via a WiFi connection using their smartphones or PCs.
When it comes to the bracket, its quality is essential in ensuring the stability of the solar system, especially in withstanding extreme weather conditions like gale-force winds. TSUN offers brackets made of lightweight and durable aluminum, which not only provide strength but also corrosion resistance, extending their lifespan.
Balcony PV systems offer an efficient and space-optimized solution, making them a preferred choice for households. By considering factors such as available space, aesthetics preferences, flexibility, component selection, people can choose a balcony solar system that meets their specific needs.
Embracing balcony solar systems not only helps people reduce their carbon footprint but also contributes to addressing Europe’s energy challenges in a sustainable manner.
