Germany is currently experiencing a surge in the popularity of balcony solar power systems. These innovative solutions, composed of solar panels, microinverters, brackets, and cables, are significantly smaller than traditional rooftop solar power setups. This unique design not only breaks through the limitations of installation scenarios but also offers a simple and convenient way to generate clean energy.
Recently, Germany has implemented a policy to loose restrictions on balcony solar systems, which is expected to increase their popularity. According to the new regulations set to take effect on January 1, 2024, the power generation capacity of balcony solar systems will increase from 600 watts to a maximum of 800 watts, offering even more choices for individuals seeking clean energy solutions.
While 600 watts or 800 watts might not cover the entirety of a household's daily energy consumption, it provides an effective way to contribute to the environment while saving on electricity costs without a significant upfront investment. This is especially appealing to those living in apartments, where small-scale balcony solar systems emerge as one of the few options to participate in the green revolution.
Taking the TSUN balcony system as an example, it comes equipped with the TSOL-MS800 microinverter. Due to current regulations, the output power is 600 watts, but there's a possibility of remotely upgrading the power to 800 watts based on policy implementation.
Currently, this system generates an average of over 110 kWh per month, amounting to over 1200 kWh per year. With Germany's 2023 electricity price at around 40 euro cents per kWh, this small balcony solar system could save around 500 euros annually on electricity bills. Even considering lower energy production during cold winters, the payback period is around 2 years for such a 600-watt system, priced around 800 euros excluding VAT in the German market.
Moreover, the new legislation aims to reduce bureaucratic restrictions and simplify the registration process, allowing systems to be put into operation as quickly as possible. Specifically, balcony solar systems will no longer require registration with local grid operators; instead, registration will be conducted through the Federal Network Agency's market master data registration. This change makes the registration process more convenient.
According to data from the German Federal Network Agency, the registered installation number of balcony solar systems increased from 137,000 in 2022 to 230,000 in the first half of 2023 alone. Industry insiders estimate that the actual number, including unreported installations, could be as high as 800,000.
As Germany's new legislation pushes forward the development of balcony solar systems, it's foreseeable that this number will continue to rise. We look forward to the successful implementation of the new regulations and anticipate that the TSUN Easy Solar Kit balcony solar series will contribute eco-friendly energy to an increasing number of households, fostering sustainable societal progress.