A rapidly growing trend in Europe

According to a new report by Solarpower Europe, an association of companies in the solar industry, Europe has a strong increase in the use of plug-in solar systems. These systems enable the quick and easy use of solar energy, without complex installations or considerable investments.

Solar energy experiences a boom all over Europe and the world that goes beyond traditional installations on the roof and into large -scale solar parks. Panels can now be seen on streets and railways as well as pastures and orchards. The latest trend in renewable energies is referred to as plug-in solar systems.

Plug-in solar systems, also known as a balcony-based systems or mini solar systems, are designed for the easy installation of users on balconies, walls, roofs and in gardens. They usually consist of one or two solar modules that can be connected to a grounded Home Power socket.

According to a report published by Solarpower Europe, the market for plug-in-photovoltaic systems (PV) in Europe has significant growth. These systems are becoming increasingly popular in response to rising electricity prices.

Plug-in solar systems can cover up to 25% of the electricity consumption of a household

The report shows that in some European countries plug-in solar systems can cover up to 25% of the annual electricity consumption of a household. In addition, you improve the energy independence of the energy, democratize energy generation and reduce monthly invoices.

In Germany, a set with a single 400 watt module that previously costs between EUR 300 and 500 can be bought for EUR 200. According to the report, the most advanced systems with batteries can cost up to EUR 1,500.

Germany is a leader in the number of balcony power plants. At the end of 2024, around 780,000 such systems were registered in the country, but the number could increase to four million, since according to the report, many mini power plants are still not registered.

The report also underlines the increasing use of small battery storage systems with capacities of one to five kilowatt hours so that excess energy can be stored. In Germany alone, the number of small batteries with a capacity of less than two kilowatt hours between 2023 and 2024 increased 24 times.

Europe needs better regulation for plug-in solar systems

One of the main advantages of plug-in solar systems is affordability and easy installation. They can also be easily shifted when moving, which makes them suitable for rental apartments and temporary structures. The investment in such systems pays off within two to six years, depending on the system size, local sun potential and electricity prices.

However, the report also shows certain challenges. Due to their small size and often suboptimal placement, these systems cannot fully cover the energy requirement of a house. In addition, the European Union has not yet adopted uniform regulation for these systems, which leads to different rules in different countries.

The countries introduce regulations to legalize and standardize the balcony power plants

“With the increase in plug-in solar supplies, Europe needs clear product standards and consistent installation guidelines to ensure security, network compatibility and consumer confidence,” said Lia Le Penuaisic, project manager for the report.

Nevertheless, Solarpower emphasizes Europe that the European countries with the growing market for plug-in solar systems introduce new regulations to legalize and standardize them. Belgium is expected to legalize plug-in solar systems in April 2025, while Germany has already simplified the registration procedure.

The German regulatory authority VDE plans to take over the first official standard for plug-in solar products by the end of 2025, which could serve as the basis for broader European regulations, the report says.

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