Installation guide for balcony mount for glass panel with bipolar cells.

Source: GreenSolar Sub - YouTube

Current North Macedonian context and SUNRISE project implementation challenges 

Author: Mariela Klekovska, HFH Macedonia

North Macedonia, as a country aspiring for EU membership, harmonizes strategic documents at national and local level, aligned with three strategic courses of action: 

• intensive measures for energy efficiency and renewable energy sources (excluding coal) to fully cover the production of primary energy in the country,
• energy transition which leads to the creation of more than 11.000 new green jobs, and
• reduction of GHG 42% until 2040 compared to 2017.

These strategic general determinations should be integrated into the national strategic documents, action plans, laws and by-laws as well as Local Government Units (LGU) programs. A large part of the strategic documents is written according to top-down methodologies, without detailed knowledge and data of real consumers at basic level. Due to various reasons, such as technical knowledge, administrative processes or lack of finance, at times, some citizens can face difficulties to introduce renewable energy sources (RES) in their households. The residential buildings which, according to the European practice, implement measures for EE and RES are incentivized with national programs and budget, while in Macedonia this is left only at the level of local self-government and the residents themselves.

Therefore, couple of projects regarding utilization of solar energy in households are being implemented in the country. One of them is the SUNRISE project, financed by EUKI and implemented by Habitat for Humanity Macedonia (HFHM) in North Macedonia. The project is focused on Multi-Family- Apartment- Buildings (MFABs). There are installations of 4 plug-in PV systems foreseen, 2 intended for the common space in 2 different buildings, and 2 will be installed in 2 separate apartments. 

Steps and challenges of the implementation of SUNRISE project in North Macedonia

HFHM tries to layout, point out and recommend solutions to the challenges that one household in a MFAB can face when installing a plug-in PV system and challenges that HFHM faces during the project implementation. So far, the challenges are:

• legislative barriers,
• costs for permits and projects adding up higher than the plug-in PV system itself,
• need for changing the electricity meter, and
• finding suitable building and apartment for pilot project.

In North Macedonia every PV installation needs a project for architecture, statics and electricity from private company, an application for the permit of installing the PV and for the change of meters by the distribution company/grid operator, an application for deployment of the PV and a written notice about the PV installation sent to the municipality.

According to the EU directive 206/632 on energy end-use efficiency and energy services, all PV systems that have installed capacity of 0,8 kW or below are not considered significant for the grid and the utility circuit, so nor upfront registration with the grid operator, nor municipal permit would be needed. However, the North Macedonian by-law Rulebook on renewable energy sources oblige every prosumer to register their system and start a process for PV system installation.

PV installation faces many difficulties

The start of the process for PV installation permit begins with basic project preparation including architectural and electric schemes of the building/ apartment. When it comes to connecting the PVs on the common meter of the building (measuring common lightning, elevators and pumps) basic project of the whole building architecture and electric circuit is needed, and when a particular apartment is in question, then again basic project for the whole building architecture and scheme of the electric circuit of the apartment is needed. In many cases the costs of the project surpass the costs of the plug-in PV system itself, making the whole investment unfavorable. 

In addition to the permit for installation of PV, in parallel a process for changing the meters needs to take place. In general, all meters by default are one-way meters. For using the full capacity of a plug-in PV system, and implementing the concept of prosumers, two-way meters are needed. 

However, in the Rulebook of RES, it is stated that installed RES capacities for electricity production up to 6 kW need to be registered, without indicating the starting margin, which gives a bit free space for interpretation. When a plug-in PV system has integrated smart microinverter that communicates and coordinates the current energy consumption and energy production, technically change of meter won´t be needed. In this case the household is not feeding the public electric grid with exes of the produced energy, so it is not considered as prosumer, meaning no additional projects needed. However, legally this is still a grey area.

Photo: The Housing Initiative for Eastern Europe (IWO)

Last, but not the least, the selection of buildings and apartments has to be done carefully. In the framework of the project, this process takes into account three aspects: technical, societal and the willingness of residents to cooperate. The selection of the buildings and apartments is done with close cooperation with the piloting municipalities Karposh and Bitola, as well as with building management companies. Experience shows that the bigger buildings are keener on cooperation, comprising different societal level, but technically are challenging for implementation (the project preparation is more complicated, with a lot of sockets and nodes, one building can have multiple meters with different purposes, or different levels of the connecting power on the grid, challenge in matching the right power outlet with the meter etc.). In ideal case the apartment in which the plug-in PV system would be in the same building as the plug-in PV system connects to the common meter since no additional architectural project will be needed. However, this can cause some discomfort among the neighbours in the building that are homeowners in most of the cases and are in charge of the common spaces and utilities together. 

Outlook

Overall, the solar potential in North Macedonia is far greater than in many countries in the EU, but the degree of utilization according to installed capacities is far lower. The SUNRISE project seeks to fill in this gap, by supporting the tenants in MFABs, and tries to influence the general policies by lobbying for fewer rules when it comes to plug-in PV systems and their broader usage.

Cover photo: The Housing Initiative for Eastern Europe (IWO)

The European Union is at the forefront of a transformative shift in renewable energy financing, navigating a complex landscape shaped by public investment initiatives and private market dynamics. As the EU pursues its climate ambitions, the marriage of innovative policies, emerging technologies, and strategic investments has motivated significant developments in renewable energy. 

This report identifies the renewable energy financial products and services available to prosumers in three target countries: Lithuania, North Macedonia, and Bulgaria. These countries, each at different stages of their renewable energy journey, showcase the diversity within the EU framework. North Macedonia, advancing towards EU accession, is aligning its renewable energy policies with EU standards and benefits from a relatively vibrant financing environment for residential renewable energy installation, albeit with high borrowing costs. Lithuania, a leader in residential energy upgrading, boasts a robust environment for the deep retrofitting and renovating of multi-family apartment buildings alongside its renewable energy investments. Bulgaria has organized €1.1B in support for energy renovations of residential and public buildings, although private financing for consumer-level residential energy installation is currently limited to two commercial banks. Against European trends, the individual financing environments of these three countries, summarized in this document, contribute significantly to the collective EU narrative in renewable energy innovation and adaptation.

Read the full report prepared by Habitat for Humanity International Europe and the Middle East.

The project SUNRISE aims to support local organizations in Bulgaria, Lithuania and North Macedonia in initiating the expansion of solar energy projects through exchange of experience and knowledge sharing. It will identify barriers on the national and local level and develop solutions for multi-family buildings. The relatively low-threshold approach of plug-in PV-modules will raise apartment owners’ and tenants’ awareness of the solar potential and initiate larger installations in the medium term. 

In the long-term, SUNRISE will enable self-consumption and putting consumers at the heart of the low-carbon transition for unleashing private investment in RE, creating a potentially cost-effective strategy to meet renewable energy and emissions reductions targets. Citizens becoming prosumers will lead to financial, environmental and security benefits for households and society at large. Benefits from using self-generated electricity include cheaper energy bills, energy autonomy, reduced carbon emissions and the creation of new local jobs. Small-scale installations will make people aware that they can collectively have a large impact on energy transition and carbon emissions reduction.

What is a plug-in PV system and what are the advantages of using it?

Discover the answers by watching a video created by the EUKI project SUNRISE – Prosumer Solar Energy. This project is being implemented by Habitat Bulgaria in collaboration with the lead organization, Initiative for Housing in Eastern Europe (IWO), and partners including the Lithuanian Consumers Alliance (LCA), Habitat for Humanity International (HFHI), the German Solar Energy Society (DGS), and Habitat Macedonia. The project's primary objective is to address and overcome barriers hindering the adoption by households in multi-family residential buildings of renewable energy, with a specific focus on solar energy.

The project advocates for the implementation of tools that facilitate and incentivize households to adopt plug-in PV systems. This includes the introduction of net metering for energy production and consumption on an annual basis. The project aims to contribute to the European Union's ambitious targets of achieving a 55% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and attaining carbon neutrality by 2050. Its importance is  evident in the current context, where soaring energy prices put an emphasis on  utilizing renewable energy for electricity generation, even at the household level.

European Climate Initiative (EUKI) Project SUNRISE Partners Convene in Berlin to Advance Plug-in PV Systems Initiatives in Bulgaria, North Macedonia, and Lithuania

BERLIN – [October 10-11, 2023] –  In the pursuit of sustainable living, the partners of the European Climate Initiative (EUKI) Project SUNRISE recently gathered in Berlin for a collaborative meeting aimed at discussing project progress, planning future steps, and engaging in a workshop organized by the Initiative SoLocal Energy from Kassel (GER). The workshop was dedicated to exploring every aspect of Plug-in PV systems technology, leaving no stone unturned in the quest for sustainable energy solutions. 

In an increasingly eco-conscious world, the SUNRISE project is taking a step forward in the journey toward a sustainable future. Led by the Housing Initiative for Eastern Europe (IWO) and supported by partners from Habitat Bulgaria, Lithuanian Consumers Alliance (LCA), Habitat for Humanity International (HFHI), German Solar Energy Company (DGS), and Habitat Macedonia, the project focuses on increasing the use of renewable energy in the residential sector through a PROSUMER approach – empowering individual homeowners or tenants to become both energy producers and consumers.

In the heart of the project lies the ambition to promote Plug-in PV systems technology through pilot projects in the target countries of Bulgaria, North Macedonia, and Lithuania. In these nations, small-scale investments in Plug-in PV systems offer an accessible and cost-effective alternative to large, expensive energy efficiency measures for buildings. These initiatives empower residents and property owners to actively contribute to climate protection while lightening the burden on their wallets, addressing the issue of energy poverty in the process.

During the workshop the project partners have encountered unique challenges in their respective countries, including varying technical requirements and conditions. For instance, differences in electricity meters that count energy fed into the grid as consumption pose a hurdle. Despite these challenges, the partners received valuable demonstrations on various technical aspects, from electrical configurations to balcony mounting options. Gratitude was expressed to Arvid Jasper for his enlightening explanations, guiding the partners through these complexities.

During a site visit to the ufaFabrik, the partners explored additional avenues for sustainable urban development, including rooftop solar systems, green roofs, green facades, and rainwater harvesting (RWH). Marco Schmidt, a dedicated pioneer from the Technical University of Berlin, shared insights into the site's evolution and showcased the impact of these initiatives through compelling statistics and figures. Standing amidst green rooftops and solar panels, the partners experienced firsthand the transformative potential of such areas, recognizing their vital role in enhancing urban life and elevating quality of life in cities.

For more information about the SUNRISE Project, please visit ➡ http://www.sunriseproject.hfh.bg/en/ 

About EUKI:

This project is part of the European Climate Initiative (EUKI). EUKI is a project financing instrument by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK). The EUKI competition for project ideas is implemented by the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH. It is the overarching goal of the EUKI to foster climate cooperation within the European Union (EU) in order to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions.

What is a plug-in PV system and what are the advantages of using it?

Discover the answers by exploring a gallery of six infographics created by the EUKI project SUNRISE – Prosumer Solar Energy. This project is being implemented by Habitat Bulgaria in collaboration with the lead organization, Initiative for Housing in Eastern Europe (IWO), and partners including the Lithuanian Consumers Alliance (LCA), Habitat for Humanity International (HFHI), the German Solar Energy Society (DGS), and Habitat Macedonia. The project's primary objective is to address and overcome barriers hindering the adoption by households in multi-family residential buildings of renewable energy, with a specific focus on solar energy.

In Bulgaria, the adoption of photovoltaic systems for balconies and facades with a plug-in socket (Plug-in photovoltaic with installed power up to 800W) remains less popular when compared to Western European countries, where an increasing number of households are embracing this technology. These photovoltaic systems offer a cost-effective solution with substantial potential to educate citizens about the benefits of utilizing solar energy. They can serve as an incentive for individuals to consider installing higher capacity solar energy systems in residential buildings.

The project advocates for the implementation of tools that facilitate and incentivize households to adopt plug-in PV systems. This includes the introduction of net metering for energy production and consumption on an annual basis. The project aims to contribute to the European Union's ambitious targets of achieving a 55% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and attaining carbon neutrality by 2050. Its importance is  evident in the current context, where soaring energy prices put an emphasis on  utilizing renewable energy for electricity generation, even at the household level.

6. What are the advantages of the solar plug-in module? Is it feasible for me?

*south / *east

By connecting a solar module to the grid, you make your personal contribution to the energy transition. Mini solar systems typically produce enough electricity to cover a significant portion of the base load on sunny days and of the peak household load during midday hours.

A single standard 380 watt solar module installed on a south-facing balcony with no shading provides around 280 kWh of electricity per year. This reduces your electricity consumption by about the same amount, as if you could have used the electricity directly in your household.

This energy volume is roughly comparable to the annual energy utilization of a fridge and a laundry machine in a household of two individuals. At an average electricity price of 33 euro cents, this results in annual savings of around EUR 66.

A single standard solar plug-in module usually costs in the EUR 350 and EUR 600 range. Due to very high demand and components supply chain disruptions, prices are significantly higher in certain cases. In contrast, however, household electricity costs have also increased significantly in recent months.

The module yield, hence its cost-effectiveness, depends on a range of diverse factors. These include the cost of purchase, optimizing module solar exposure, and current costs of electricity from the utility provider. It's particularly advantageous to have the vertical fitting on the outside of the balcony railing, facing from southwest to southeast, devoid of any shading. Vertical placement reduces peaks of unusable production in summer and increases usable yields in winter.

For a location in Germany with average sunshine times, you can estimate the cost-effectiveness of a solar module using a Solar Plug-in Simulator HTW Berlin evaluation.

Not only are you reducing your energy bills, but you're benefiting the environment. The minisolar system saves about 2.5 tonnes of CO₂ emissions over 20 years. 

Unsuitable locations for installation:

• behind the balcony railing, in the balcony niche;
• on the wall below the upstairs balcony;
• Places in the shade of trees, light poles, or adjacent buildings.

Permanent, or even partial shade, or module contamination can lead to a reduction in yield that is significantly more noticeable than with a PV system. You should, therefore, regularly check and clean the module .

7. Is there a subsidy for plug-in solar module connection to the power grid?

Increasingly, municipalities, individual federal provinces and regional unions are supporting solar modules for connection to the grid through subsidies. Additionally, grid operators and electricity providers are progressively facilitating this application by streamlining the registration process and fostering, rather than obstructing, the adoption of such systems. Be careful! Subsidies often have prerequisites, such as the use of a special power socket, inspection of the electrical installation by an electrician, or covering the costs of a new electricity meter. To avoid issues with subsidies, please ensure these points are covered. 

When solar modules are integrated into the grid system, the feed-in tariff imposed by the Renewable Energy Act typically doesn't apply. If, for example, a solar module produces 500 kWh of electricity per year and 150 kWh of this goes into the grid, this means a feed-in tariff of around EUR 12 per year. This is countered by the regular but disproportionately high meter reading and billing costs.

8. Where do I need to register a grid plug-in solar device?

In Regulation 2016/631, the European Union classifies small generators below 800 watts as “insignificant” as they “have no systemic importance”. However, German grid operators require that all power plants be registered with them, regardless of output capacity. However, the activity is not dependent on the permit. They have included this requirement in the relevant regulation (application rule VDE-AR-N 4105). A simplified form is provided for AC generators up to 600 watts, which includes grid plug-in solar modules, as per our definition. Completing this form does not require an electrician; you could do it yourself, if you use a plug-in solar module.

Many grid operators provide simplified forms on their website, and some send them upon request. Some even offer easy online registration. The registration must be accompanied by a data sheet of the inverter used, showing that the device meets the requirements for connection to the grid (declaration of conformity).

Some manufacturers of balcony modules offer to assist with the registration process.

Although it is disputed whether grid-connected solar modules are “installations” at all, at least insofar as these systems do not have a fixed connection but are plugged into the electrical circuit via a plug, same as household appliances, the Federal Network Agency also requires registration with the Market Data Master Registry.

This means that currently 2 registrations are required, One with the local grid operator and one with the Federal Network Agency. It is important for both these registrations to have identical technical data, i.e. power or date of commissioning, as this data is aligned and compared in the background.

These registrations offer no advantages to consumers, they only create bureaucratic obstacles. As a grid plug-in solar module is formally also a grid-connected PV system, registrations are required. A fine may be imposed for failure to register on the Market Master Data Registry.

Instructions: If you already have a roof photovoltaic system, which is older than 12 months, and the power generated by it is partially used in the household, the solar plug-in module is considered an additional new system. If not installed on the same roof (facing the same direction and at the same slope), the grid operator will most likely require an additional electricity meter. Under these circumstances, the operation of the solar plug-in module becomes unprofitable. Registration of the solar module with the grid operator and the Market Master Data Registry as an extension of the existing installation is only permissible if the rooftop installation was commissioned less than a year ago.

9. Do I need a new electricity meter?

Even if solar modules are designed for self-consumption and not to feed the grid, electricity can still flow into the grid. Technically this is not an issue, and it is allowed if you use inverters that meet the standard.

Due to the solar module plug in, conventional meters with mechanical rotating pulleys (Ferrari meters) may start operating in reverse, as these meters are not equipped with a limiter. Therefore, in this case, the grid operator, as the operator of the main metering point, substitutes the conventional meter with a modern electronic meter, which is also known as modern metering equipment (mME).

These meters are available in two versions: One-way meters continue to measure only electricity consumed and do not read back when electricity is fed into the grid. The (small) excess power is not measured with this meter option.

The second option is a bidirectional meter. These are, technically, the same meters, but they are programmed to separately record and display both metering directions – the electricity drawn from the grid and the electricity fed back into the grid. Such meters are also used for photovoltaic systems with surplus energy.

Lawmakers anticipate that in the upcoming years all current electric meters in Germany will be superseded with such sophisticated meters under the initiative known as the Introduction of Smart Meters. 

The electricity grid operator is not allowed to charge you for removing the old meter and installing a modern metering device instead. This is because the Meter Operation Act provides that the cost of installing and removing meters must now be contained in the annual metering charge. Many grid operators agree to waive the meter bill as soon as a solar module is registered.

If modern metering equipment is installed, the annual metering costs can rise to the statutory maximum of EUR 20 per year.

Ensure that your chosen power utility company or the main power utility company does not double-charge you for metering costs as part of the basic electricity purchase price.

10. What do I need to know when buying?

You should only buy devices that are ready to plug in.

On a technical note, it is really important that the inverter included in the set has a declaration of conformity according to VDE AR 4105, as this is the only way to use it in the power grid. Also, ensure that the inverter is limited to a maximum power output (alternating current) of 600 watts (AC). Solar modules may have higher power output.

In some cases, for example, companies sell devices with open cable ends without connecting plugs. Obviously, customers then have to install the plug themselves.

This is how manufacturers let the buyer shoulder the responsibility for final product implementation. Legally, however, this can only be done by a qualified electrician, not someone without specialist knowledge. The same is true for socket replacement: This should also be carried out formally by a qualified electrician.

Consumer Centers recommends, when purchasing, that you make sure solar module manufacturers have complied with the DGS safety standard (DGS 0001:2019-10) for connection to the grid. A product standard for grid-connected solar modules is expected in 2024. It is currently under development.

Mini solar systems, also referred to as balcony power plants, can sometimes be purchased from local specialized photovoltaic dealers. However, most offers are available in specialist online stores. An overview of the markets on this topic can be found on these websites:

• PV Magazine (Photovoltaics Trade Magazine)
• Pvplug.de (German Solar Energy Society)

In the meantime, deals are also available in discount stores or electronics markets. However, they are usually much more expensive than specialist commercial offers, and the advice and choice within them is quite limited. Ensure that the quotations are technically comprehensive and include substructure, as an example.

If all the requirements are met, you can turn on the device yourself. Assistance can be found in specific areas from DIY workshops conducted by community energy cooperatives or different initiatives, as well as from local residents who have prior experience with solar panels.

11. How do I know if it works and what its effectiveness is?

Solar modules or modular inverters themselves do not directly indicate functionality or current performance. Inverters sometimes have an LED that signals certain operating states by flashing or glowing. However, this is not enough to determine whether the device operates properly and what its performance is.

Some inverters include a power measurement that you can read and save using an external auxiliary device. This can also be done through an online connection to a web portal, similar to photovoltaic systems (monitoring). Then energy output can be partially metered through a mobile device. 

If the appliance is connected to the outlet via a Schuko plug – provided this is allowed for the appliance you purchased – you can use a commercially available meter to plug in between the outlet and the refrigerator to determine power consumption. Many of these devices can also measure in reverse, thus they are also suitable as a power generation meter for a solar module.

Smart sockets operate on the very same principle; they can be switched on and off via WLAN from the router or from the smart home controls, and they often include energy metering.

Both meters and smart sockets are not yet available for connection via the so-called special connector Wieland. In this case, a small electronic device can be installed in the socket to collect the data. These electronics also measure the electric current flow and sends the data via Bluetooth or WLAN to the internet router or smartphone.

When solar modules and inverters have reached the end of their lifecycle, you can take them to your local recycling center or point of sale for disposal and recycling.

Checklist: Step by step to the solar plug-in module

1. Are local conditions suitable for connecting a solar plug-in module? Does this site have maximum solar exposure?
2. Are the installation site, socket and circuit state-of-the-art?
3. Does the landlord or the community of owners agree?
4. Do potential restrictions exist under building or statutory law, as an example due to listed building regulations, in the case of an old town center or top glazing?
5. What are the requirements of the network operator and the potential subsidizing authority?
6. Did you find the right offer to meet all of your requirements? (equipment, price/quality, delivery, installation and connection, DGS safety standard/standard for future devices)
7. Have you considered monitoring in order to check effectiveness?
8. Do you have experts on hand or a local DIY group to turn to when in doubt?
9. Is everything clear with the registration and required meter change?

This content has been prepared by the North Rhine-Westphalia and Rheinland-Pfalz consumer advice centers for the Federation of German Consumer Organisations (VZBV).

Source: Steckersolar: Solarstrom vom Balkon direkt in die Steckdose

Supported by solar modules that plug into the grid, you can generate your own solar power as a tenant or a homeowner. We will keep you updated on areas of focus.

Brief summary of the most important information:

• Your own balcony or terrace can generate solar power and use it to power your household.
• Grid plug-in solar modules produce electric power for personal use, but are not intended for grid integration.
• Balcony modules systems are safe and financially viable in the long term.
• Certain overly complex rules and requirements still apply, but this should not be a concern to you.
• Simplification measures are already being discussed, which, unfortunately, are still not applicable in practice.

Can we expect simpler grid plug-in rules for solar modules any time soon?

On 11 January 2023, the Association for Electrical, Electronic & Information Technologies (VDE) in Germany has published a position paper, calling for simpler rules for plug-in solar devices. Consumer exchanges have welcomed pending simplifications. Currently, the propositions such as the adoption of the Schuko plug, the removal of the mandate for grid operator registration, and the enhancement of the power threshold from 600 to 800 watts (alternating current) are merely recommendations presented in the VDE position paper. Therefore, they are not yet valid and enforceable.

The The Federation of German Consumer Organisations (Verbraucherzentrale Bundesverband – vzbv) also recommends the use of Schuko plugs.

Important information: Photovoltaic and battery energy storage systems are subject to 0% VAT since 1 January 2023. This zero percent also applies to grid plug-in solar modules.

1. What is a solar plug-in module and how does it work?

Do you have a balcony or terrace? If the answer is ‘yes’, then you can generate your own solar power and you can be actively involved in the energy transition – with the support of a solar plug-in model. These small photovoltaic systems are often also called mini solar systems, plug & play solar systems, or balcony power plants, as they can be mounted on the balcony railing. This, however, is not a system in the technical sense, but rather a power generating household appliance.

What can the solar plug-in module do? The solar module generates electricity from the sunlight, which an inverter converts into household electricity. It connects directly to an existing electrical circuit in the home. The simplest case is to plug in to an existing outlet.

The energy from the solar module is channeled directly to a conveniently placed outlet, such as an outlet on the balcony. This energy can then be distributed in your home, powering essential appliances like your television, refrigerator, and washing machine, connected to various other outlets within your living space. The electricity meter would indicate reduced consumption, as less electricity from the public grid is required. If the balcony generated electrical power cannot power household appliances, grid electricity is used instead.

Without a connection to the grid, solar modules do not produce electricity. When camping or on a garden plot, you can instead use the so-called  island systems with a battery and a different inverter type.

Solar plug-in modules usually consist of 1 or 2 standard solar modules and an inverter. Additional components are added, depending on the equipment.

1. Solar power modules: The grid-connected solar power unit consists of one to two solar modules. A module has rated power of approximately 300 W, with dimensions 1 x 1,70 m and a weight of up to 20 kg. Some systems are also comprised of several smaller modules.

2. Inverter: It is integrated into the solar module or attached separately, for example to the module frame.

3. Connecting cable: The cable leads from the inverter to a suitable external outlet.

4. Function Check: With a power meter – with or without an Internet connection – you can measure how much electricity is being produced.

5. Secure installation: Solar modules are installed using appropriate installation materials to safely withstand wind and weather conditions. Check in advance whether the selected solar modules can be installed at the planned location. Not all modules are appropriate for every balcony, and the consent of the landlord or the condominium association is required.

Solar modules: Standard modules measure about 1 meter by 1.7 meters, weigh about 20 kilograms and provide a rated power ranging from 350 to more than 400 watts. Furthermore, the selection includes glass-free solar modules or compact size solar modules, which are very suitable for easier installation, for example on a balcony.

Inverter: The inverter houses the electronic components that transform the direct current generated by the solar module from sunlight into alternating current. This conversion enables the electricity produced to be directly integrated into the home’s electrical system, allowing for immediate use by standard household devices. This modular inverter meets all the technical and safety requirements that larger appliances have to meet. It is generally suitable for outdoor use.

Connection to the grid: Connection to the mains happens via a plug cable. It is generally not anticipated to have a permanent connection, allowing the solar model to be turned on or off anytime and relocated, without needing to hire an external electrical installation provider. You can find the plug-in connector in the manufacturer's specifications. Two options usually exist – the special Wieland-type plug or the Schuko plugs, commonly used in households. In fact, it does not matter which of the three phases of the grid a solar module is connected to; electricity is also used by the devices in the other two phases.

Solar module installation: Special attention should be paid to the solar module installation. The installation site and materials must be suitable for this purpose. You can find information about this in the manufacturer's specifications (operating instructions). Most companies also sell ready-to-assemble kits. The primary priority here is to ensure that the solar module is not susceptible to wind damage or collapse because of its own weight.

Monitoring: Using a suitable metering device to check the correct functioning of the solar module and the amount of energy it delivers is recommended. In some inverters there are additional devices that take over this function. Otherwise, you can use socket meters or measuring sensors via WLAN or Bluetooth.

Battery energy storage: Solar electricity is not stored in the solar module, but is fed into the utility grid and consumed directly. Individual producers occasionally include small rechargeable devices in their product range. However, there have not been any economically viable products so far. Therefore, we do not recommend the use of batteries to store energy for solar modules.

2. What is the difference compared to a PV system?

Contrary to photovoltaic systems, the notably smaller solar modules intended for grid integration are designed for private individuals with the ability to handle their own set-up, connection, and usage. You can also create your registration with the grid operator and the Market Master Data Registry. Mini solar systems can also be easily dismantled and used elsewhere, for example when moving house. Their power is up to 600 watts (inverter power).

Photovoltaic systems on private homes, on the other hand, have a capacity between 3 and 20 kilowatts (kWp). The installation and maintenance of the constituent components and the technical reports and registrations with the local grid operator need to be provided by a specialized firm. The solar power system is firmly set up for ongoing use and can only be dismantled and moved to a different building at considerable expense.

In this video you can see what a solar module looks like in operation and the experiences of balcony power plant owners:

3. Is the solar module suitable for my home?

Normally the solar plug-in module is suitable for apartments with

• a balcony; or
• a terrace; or
• covering roof surface, respectively in front of a window, garage roof; or
• surface of an external wall facing the sun.

The grid plug-in solar module is much more cost-effective than a photovoltaic system and can therefore be financed by low-income individuals.

You can also install a solar module on the terrace or in the garden. When you move, you can simply take the device with you.

The following applies to rentals and owned homes: If you wish to attach the solar panel on the edge of your balcony or the wall of your residence, it is typically required to obtain approval from the owner or the owners’ collective. Since the Home Ownership Act (WEG) was amended in 2020, this no longer requires unanimity, only majority approval.

• Be advised that in special cases, historic preservation regulations may be contradictory to the project.
• For example, in close proximity to buildings listed as cultural monuments; or at the center of a listed site; or if building regulations prevent the project implementation. Keyword: Top glazing.

4. Are solar modules safe to plug in?

The devices are extremely safe overall. By the end of 2021, more than 190,000 such systems are in operation in Germany. So far, there is no known case of material damage or human casualties. This is due to the fact that the equipment used is very sophisticated, as it utilizes the same professional grade components as professional photovoltaic systems. Only standard-compliant produced and tested components may be used.

Solar plug-in modules are safe if the modular inverters used meet the requirements for regular photovoltaic system inverters. The installation standard additionally requires the electrician to confirm the circuit's ability to supply the grid with solar power.

To begin with, it is advised to only connect one solar module (also referred to as inverter) to a single plug or circuit. Connecting multiple modules via multiple sockets would be hazardous.

A product standard  for device testing and certification is currently in development. The DIN Consumer Council and the Consumer Advice Center are also involved in this process; a publication on this topic was expected in 2022 and has now been pushed back to 2024. Until its publication, you can refer to the Safety Standard published by the German Solar Energy Society (DGS), as an example.

In addition, you have to follow the device manufacturer instructions for connection and use. They contain know-how on how to securely fix the solar module and the inverter at the the intended place for installation.

5. What are the dimensions of the plug-in solar modules and what size is the right one for me?

By plug-in solar modules, we mean 1 to 2 solar modules with an inverter that are connected to a household's electrical circuit.

These can be 1 to 2 standard solar modules (measuring about 1 x 1.70 m) of an up-to-date design, which typically have a power rating ranging from 350 and 420 W each. Over the next few years, the electrical performance of standard modules will continue to improve.

The specified 600 watts refers to the power of the inverter connection to the mains (AC). It is also possible to use 2 modules with a power of 340 W each, or 2 modules with a power of 420 W each, provided that the inverter connection power does not exceed 600 W.

Alternatively, smaller format and lighter solar modules are also suitable, which are easier to attach to balcony railings, for example. They have a power range from 50 to 150 W and 2 to 4 of them can be connected to a single modular inverter.

Tip: If you want to use as much solar energy as possible for personal consumption and prevent power consumption from the grid, we recommend 200 to 400 W, which is usually the standard solar module. If you want to produce more solar energy, you can also consider 2 standard solar modules.

In principle, photovoltaic systems can also be set up to incorporate more power. Concurrently, solar modules that have an output of 2,400 watts are also available, but their inverters maximum output is also 600 watts. Consumer advice centers advise against this, due to the high input costs and the low power use permitted due to deregulation.

In our view, higher power modules without an inverter limit should be designed as a proper photovoltaic system. However, this is the last possible stage for a qualified electrician to check all the technical prerequisites of the electrical connection and to register the device with the grid operator.

However, the higher costs of installing a large photovoltaic system are financially justified only for significantly larger system outputs, exceeding 3 kilowatts.

This content has been prepared by the North Rhine-Westphalia and Rhineland-Palatinate user centers for the German user Center Network.

Source: Steckersolar: Solarstrom vom Balkon direkt in die Steckdose

Assessment of the survey of grid-connected solar module suppliers on market structure, market volume, sales and customer preferences.

The market for grid-connected solar modules is undergoing a dynamic development. However, so far there has been a lack of conclusive data on the market structure and volume. Through a survey of suppliers of grid-connected solar modules in Germany and a resulting analysis, this study has, for the first time, shown the suppliers structure. Furthermore, it provides a reliable market forecast and presents preferences on the use of solar modules, but also opportunities and barriers from the suppliers' perspective.

What is typical for suppliers?

The results of the survey show that 72% of the suppliers belong to the category of micro enterprises. Grid-connected solar modules were also available before 2010, but 62% of the suppliers surveyed only started selling solar modules in 2019 or at a later time. Of all solar modules sold by the surveyed suppliers to date, 75% have been sold directly to end customers by companies.

What solar modules types are sold?

On solar modules use sites, the most common type of application is outdoors, with 44%, an example of this being flat roofs or in gardens. The second most common application is the balcony, with 29%. According to the study, the Shuko plug has become the standard plug connection – 77% of all solar modules in operation in Germany use this plug type.

What is the market volume at the end of 2021?

Based on an estimate of the data collected, it was first established that between 140,000 and 190,000 grid-connected solar modules had been sold to end customers in Germany by the end of 2021. This corresponds to an output of 59 to 66 megawatts. The number of modules sold by suppliers in the survey also almost doubled in 2021 compared to the previous year. On that basis it is difficult to estimate total turnover, but expectations are that it exceeded EUR 30 million in 2021. The very rapid dynamics of market development can be demonstrated for the first time and based on available data.

Source: https://solar.htw-berlin.de/studien/marktstudie-steckersolar-2022/

Learn more about the Plug-in PV system from the links below:

The plug-in PV module generates electricity from the sunlight, which an inverter converts into household electricity. It connects directly to the existing mains in the home by plugging into an ordinary wall socket.

German language sources:
• Fragen und Antworten zu steckbaren Solar-Geräten
• Balkonfraftwerk.de from the part „Ihre Vorteile im Überblick”
• Balkonkraftwerk – FAQ
• Eigenen Sonnenstrom erzeugen!
• Solocal-energy.de/balkonkraftwerke – FAQ
• Die Mini-Solaranlage liefert Ökostrom vom Balkon Solarenergie in der Mietwohnung
• Auswahl des richtigen Balkonkraftwerkes
• Kosten und Amortisation von Balkonkraftwerken
• Aufbau und Funktionsweise von Balkonkraftwerken
• PRIWATT – FAQ
• Balkonkraftwerk Test-Check 2023: Infos & Anbieter im Überblick
• Steckersolargerät / Balkonsolaranlage
• Steckersolar: Solarstrom vom Balkon direkt in die Steckdose
• STECKER-SOLAR-SIMULATOR
• DER MARKT FÜR STECKERSOLARGERÄTE 2022
• So einfach ist es, ein Balkon-Solarmodul in Betrieb zu nehmen

English language sources:
• Mister Balcony – FAQ
• Solar Microinverter For Balcony Solar System In Germany