Balcony power plants are an attractive option for generating personal electricity, especially with rising energy costs. They require sunlight, solar panels, and an inverter for setup, promoting both cost savings and sustainability. Homeowners and renters can benefit from this technology, pending landlord approval, but should consider various factors before purchasing, including space measurements. The article discusses important aspects of buying and installing balcony power plants, outlines models with and without storage options, and highlights potential grants and tax benefits available in Germany.
Balcony power plants have emerged as a convenient solution for generating your own electricity. Amidst the escalating energy costs, this option becomes increasingly appealing. Essentially, all it takes is ample sunlight, a few solar panels, and an inverter to get started. Not only does this initiative help in cutting down expenses, but it also promotes sustainability. Furthermore, setting up a balcony power plant can be done independently, without the need for professional assistance.
Both homeowners and renters can benefit from this technology, provided they receive permission from their landlord. However, before making a purchase, there are several factors to consider, especially given the plethora of balcony power plants available on the market. This guide offers essential information regarding the buying process, installation, and recommendations for the best models, including those with and without storage options.
Key Considerations Before Making a Purchase
A typical balcony power plant consists of one or multiple solar panels, an inverter, and a connection cable for your electrical outlet. The inverter’s role is to convert the direct current produced by the solar panels into alternating current suitable for home use. Notably, the Federal Network Agency has approved an increase in the allowable feed-in power to 800 watts starting May 16, 2024, up from the previous limit of 600 watts.
Manufacturers indicate the potential power output of solar panels, known as peak module power. According to the Renewable Energy Sources Act (EEG), the maximum allowable module power is now 2,000 watts (2 kW), making it particularly advantageous for those looking to store excess electricity. By using mounting brackets, you can install the solar panels on your balcony and connect them to your home network via the inverter.
In certain cities and municipalities, you may be eligible for grants of up to 500 euros in 2025 when purchasing a balcony power plant. It’s wise to check with your local authority regarding available funding programs. Additionally, solar devices in Germany benefit from VAT exemptions. Before making a purchase, ensure you measure your balcony space to avoid installation issues.
Applications of Balcony Power Plants
When not utilizing storage, the electricity generated is immediately available for household use, such as powering a refrigerator or television. If your household consumption is lower than the output, the surplus electricity can be fed back into the public power grid.
For those who wish to utilize generated electricity at a later time, such as during the night, a balcony power plant with storage is necessary. This type of system allows excess electricity to be stored in a battery, although it tends to be more expensive. In this guide, we will explore five models with and without storage to cater to various needs.
Balcony Power Plants Without Storage
Priwatt priBasic Duo
The Priwatt priBasic Duo is a compact balcony power plant that delivers a feed-in power of 600 watts. Utilizing the ‘TSUN Smart’ app, users can upgrade the inverter’s output to 800 watts at no extra cost. The solar panels can generate up to 450 watts. This package includes balcony mounts, two modules, the TSUN TSOL-MS600 inverter, and a 5-meter connection cable for a total of 509 euros.
Kleines Kraftwerk Duo
The Kleines Kraftwerk Duo offers an impressive model equipped with an 800-watt micro-inverter from Hoymiles. Its modules can produce up to 560 watts and are crafted from solar glass, which can yield up to 38 percent more energy compared to traditional panels. This complete set, featuring balcony mounts, two sleek black modules, a micro-inverter, and a 5-meter connection cable, is available for 469 euros.
GreenAkku Max Power Duo
The GreenAkku Max Power Duo is comprised of two glass-glass solar panels, each providing 445 watts. The EVT800-R micro-inverter supplies 800 watts to the power grid. Priced at 259 euros, this set includes only the two panels and the micro-inverter; balcony mounts and the 5-meter connection cable can be purchased separately for an additional 90.20 euros.
Zendure SolarFlow 800 Series
Zendure’s SolarFlow 800 set comes with everything needed to operate your balcony power plant. The two solar panels offer a maximum combined output of 1,118 watts, with the micro-inverter supporting 800 watts. The complete package, which includes the SolarFlow 800 micro-inverter, two solar panels, and two sets of balcony mounts, is priced at 458 euros.
Anker Solix MI80
Anker provides a comprehensive set with the Solix balcony power plant, including all necessary components. Each of the two PERC solar panels can produce up to 410 watts. The MI80 micro-inverter has the capability to feed either 600 watts or 800 watts into the grid. Available for 499 euros, the set comes complete with the two solar panels, the MI80 micro-inverter, balcony mounts, and a 5-meter connection cable.
Storage Solutions in the Set
Jackery Navi 2000
The Jackery Navi 2000 features a portable storage capacity of 2,048 Wh. Under optimal conditions, the battery can be charged to 80 percent in just 52 minutes. The integrated socket allows you to power devices without grid electricity during outages. The solar panels boast a maximum total output of 800 watts. This complete package, which includes four solar panels, two charging cables, and the power storage, is available for 2,047 euros.
EcoFlow PowerStream
The PowerStream from EcoFlow offers a portable power station with a storage capacity of 2,048 Wh. You can monitor energy consumption in real-time using the EcoFlow app. The micro-inverter can feed up to 800 watts into the grid. This set includes the balcony power plant with two rigid 400-watt solar panels featuring a corrosion-resistant aluminum frame. The total package, which includes the Delta 2 Max power station, costs 2,325 euros.
Pianeta Solix Solarbank 2 Pro
Pianeta also provides balcony power plant sets with storage available on eBay. The package features the Anker Solix Solarbank 2 Pro, which has a storage capacity of 3,200 Wh and an integrated micro-inverter. It includes four 500-watt solar panels from Ulica, along with all necessary extension and connection cables. This offer is currently priced at 1,569 euros.
Solakon onPower
The Solakon onPower comes equipped with a 2,048 Wh Growatt storage and an inverter capable of 800 watts