May 1, 2024, 4:09 am | Read time: 3 minutes
With the adoption of the solar package, the federal government is making it easier for consumers to install plug-in solar devices. A few hurdles remain–though they are small.
With the adoption of the solar package, it will become easier for renters and homeowners to install a balcony power plant on their balcony or terrace. By reducing bureaucratic hurdles, more people could use solar energy through plug-in solar devices. Additionally, the balcony power plants are allowed to have more capacity. Here are the most important questions and answers.
What type of balcony power plant can renters or homeowners install in the future?
Previously, manufacturers of balcony power plants had to limit their systems to 600 watts because experts believed that the power grid could be overloaded with larger amounts of fed-in electricity. This is according to Stiftung Warentest in the latest “test” issue (5/2024).
Related: Only one balcony power plant receives a “good” rating from Stiftung Warentest
In the future, however, the systems may have a capacity of up to 800 watts. According to the magazine, even plug-in solar devices already sold could achieve this. However, operators would need to have their inverters adjusted to the higher capacity.
What type of outlet do I need?
Additionally, the small solar panels can now be connected to the power grid with a standard Schuko plug. This could significantly simplify installation, according to the federal government, because a normal outlet, which is often already available on many balconies or terraces, is sufficient. Previously, a separate energy outlet was often required, which consumers had to have installed first.
Do I need a new electricity meter before installation?
No. The installation of new plug-in solar devices should no longer be hindered by the need to first install a digital electricity meter. Temporarily, the systems can also be connected to the grid if an old, so-called Ferraris meter is still installed. When electricity is fed into the grid, this meter runs backward, meaning consumers pay less for electricity.
However, metering point operators must replace the meters four months after being requested to do so by the Federal Network Agency, according to the “test” issue. Once the new digital electricity meter is installed, unused solar power from operators is fed into the grid free of charge.
Agreement Reached on Solar Package! Key Changes for Balcony Power Plants
Important Update for Balcony Power Plants: Electricity Meters Can Run Backward
Do renters still need to ask their landlord for permission?
Yes, this requirement does not disappear with the adoption of the solar package. However, what changes is that the installation of a plug-in solar device is now considered a so-called privileged measure. If renters or homeowners want to install such a device, landlords or the homeowners’ association can only deny the request in exceptional cases.
Where do I need to register the balcony power plant?
Previously, users of balcony power plants had to register their system with the grid operator. Since April 1, 2024, this is no longer the case. A significantly simplified registration in the market master data register of the Federal Network Agency is now sufficient. The agency then forwards the registration to the grid operator.
With material from dpa