Berlin.
Balcony power plants are in vogue and could be significantly more powerful. But an expert warns – this can lead to problems.
The war in Ukraine and the associated gas conflict with Russia has energy markets shaken in large parts of the world. In Germany, too, the prices for gas have skyrocketed – and with them the prices for heating oil.
In March 2022, the price per liter has temporarily Breaking the two euro mark. The situation has since calmed down a bit. Heating oil prices are on a downward trend – as of January 26, a liter of heating oil costs less than 1.20 euros.
Balcony power plant instead of classic solar system: Consumers have these advantages
Also unclear: Are the comparatively low energy prices since the beginning of January a longer-term situation? Several market analysts are skeptical – a problem could have a strong impact on heating oil prices and cause them to rise again. Such assessments encourage one or the other to rethink: Away from classic fuels and instead rely on regenerative heating and energy technologies – that’s the idea. In this context, the term “autonomous” is often used – making oneself completely or partially autonomous from the public network.
Technologies such as a heat pump or solar system can make it happen. However, the costs for a heat pump or PV system should not be underestimated. Consumers here are quickly in the five-digit range. A balcony power plant can be a cheaper alternative to the classic solar system. In contrast to the classic PV system, no permits are required for the individual solar modules on the balcony parapet or in the garden – with a little skill you can balcony power plant can even be assembled by yourself.
| heating | Costs in EUR |
|
oil heating |
from about 8,000 |
|
gas heating |
from about 7,000 |
|
heat pump |
from about 15,000 |
|
Wood or pellet heating |
from about 10,000 |
|
district heating |
from about 5,000 |
More power for balcony power plants: the trade association makes clear demands – this should be changed
When finished, a balcony power station can help provide electricity and reduce energy costs a bit. The investment in such a system is therefore always worthwhile from the point of view of experts – because over time the acquisition costs are amortized by the electricity costs. In addition, there are sometimes high subsidies from municipalities. Where do consumers get hundreds of euros in subsidies for a balcony power plant? In the article just linked, we compared the subsidies of the cities in Germany.
However, experts see even more potential in the future balcony power plants. The Association of Electrical, Electronic & Information Technologies – VDE for short – has a position paper published with demands on the policy. In essence, balcony power plants should become even more attractive for consumers. Among other things, the minor limit is to be raised from the current 600 watts (W) to 800 W. This means: From the point of view of the grid operator, balcony power plants up to 800 W would no longer be considered “grid relevant”.
Balcony power plants: Raise the upper watt limit – experts warn of a dangerous problem
Consumers, in turn, would benefit from more power. But master electrician and YouTuber Karl Helmut from the YouTube channel “ProofWood” warns. The adjustment of de minimis limit can quickly become a problem. Previously, the specialist portal “EFAHRER.com” reported on his assessment. From his point of view, the improper installation of an 800-watt system can lead to an overload in the house electronics, especially in older buildings. In the past, complete circuits were often routed through a single fuse.
Helmut fears in his video: On balcony power plant 800 watts connected to a circuit with only one fuse could overload the home electronics. The expert warns: “At 800 W, the system may be overloaded.” In the worst case, a fire could break out in the building. “And if something flares up, no one can be held accountable.” Neither does the manufacturer. Inexperienced consumers in particular should hire a specialist company for a balcony power plant with 800 W or more.
Balcony power plants in old buildings: check the connection station – what experts recommend
The authors of “EFAHRER.com” specifically recommend: The specialist company should check the connection station in advance and thus confirm safe operation of the balcony power plant. The system itself can consumer then always install it yourself and save money that way. This raises the question: How much should a balcony power plant cost at most? There is a wide range of prices on the internet. You can spend a few hundred to many thousands of euros on a balcony power plant.
Consumers should always compare the prices of finished sets with the prices for the individual components – because some customers are ripped off with balcony power station sets. As with many things, a price comparison is recommended in advance. The consumer portal “energieheld” names one price range of 350 and 700 euros as a rough guide. However, if the system is up and running, consumers can have a positive impact on their electricity bills – a noticeable relief in times of electricity prices above the 40 cent mark in Germany.
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