Balcony power plants: a comprehensive introduction
, By Linus Paul Quellhorst, 3 min reading time
In today's world, where environmental protection and renewable energy are moving ever more into focus, many people are looking for ways to make their own contribution. One innovative option, which is particularly interesting for city dwellers, is the balcony power plant (plug-in solar system). But what exactly is behind this term? Which models are recommended and what about value for money?
What exactly is a balcony power plant?
A balcony power plant is, put simply, a mini solar system placed on the balcony, the terrace or in the garden. While conventional photovoltaic systems often take up the entire roof surface, balcony power plants are compact and need very little space.
Some specific facts:
- Output: Balcony power plants usually have an output of between 600 and 800 watts. To put that into perspective: a 600 watt system can produce around 3 kWh of electricity on a sunny day, enough, for example, to run a refrigerator for 24 hours.
- Environment: A 600W balcony power plant can produce up to 1,000 kWh per year. This saves about 600 kg of CO2 per year compared with the German electricity mix.
- Savings: At an average electricity price of €0.30 per kWh, you can save up to €320 per year with a balcony power plant.
Which balcony power plants are recommended?
There is a wide range of manufacturers and models. Choosing the right balcony power plant depends on your individual needs. Some of the most renowned models have already been mentioned. But here are some additional tips:
- Warranty: Look for a long warranty period. Many manufacturers offer warranties of up to 10 years on their panels.
- Certificates: Make sure the product is TÜV-certified. This ensures that it is safe and complies with German standards.
- Expandability: Some models can be expanded with additional panels. This can make sense if you want to produce more energy in the future.
Value-for-money recommendations
As with any product, balcony power plants come in cheaper and more expensive variants. Here are a few considerations:
- Size and output: Larger systems with more output are generally more expensive, but they also produce more electricity.
- Quality: The cheapest product is not always the best. Pay attention to customer reviews and tests.
- Accessories: Some balcony power plants are supplied with all the accessories you need; with others you may have to purchase additional parts such as inverters or mounting systems.
In conclusion, balcony power plants offer a fantastic way to produce electricity in an environmentally friendly manner while saving money at the same time. It is an investment in the future, both your own and that of our planet. When choosing the right product, you should research carefully and, if possible, consult a specialist.