Balcony solar panel leads the home energy revolution

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If you've ever been curious about balcony solar panel, then this article is definitely a must-read for you. Balcony PV has become a hot trend. Let's talk about this exciting new energy topic together.

 

1. What is balcony photovoltaic

Balcony photovoltaics, also known as micropower generation systems, are a compact solar power generation solution. It is no longer limited to large roof installations, but integrates high efficiency solar panels into balconies or building facades, enabling personalized energy production.

2. How balcony solar panels work

Balcony solar panel typically consist of one or two PV modules, typically with an output of 300 to 600 watts, with a solar microinverter attached to the back. It converts the generated direct current into alternating current for use by household appliances.

The cable can be connected to the power cord and then plugged into a normal socket on the balcony or in the apartment. This will connect the solar system to the home grid.

 

Once the light hits the solar module, electricity is generated, which flows into the home grid and powers the equipment that is currently needed. As a result, the meter runs slower and less electricity is drawn from the grid, saving money on electricity bills.

If the sun is shining, even if the family's refrigerator, router, and computer are all draining power, the meter counter can even stop completely. If the system generates more electricity than the home currently needs, the excess electricity can also be fed into the public grid.

3. What is the role of balcony solar panel

Compared to rooftop photovoltaic systems, balcony power plants have a limited amount of power generation. The main goal of the system is not to pursue maximum power output, but to generate solar electricity at a lower cost to meet the household's own electricity needs, reduce dependence on the grid, and thus reduce the household's electricity bill.

 

For example, a 300-watt solar system (with power inverter 2000) costs around 400 euros (as of August 2023) and can save around 50 to 100 euros per year on electricity bills. For larger systems with 600 watts, it is usually possible to save a household between 100 and 200 euros in electricity bills.

4. How much you can save with balcony solar panel

• Generation

The amount of electricity generated by balcony solar panel is related to its orientation, angle to the ground, location, and area insolation.

• Electricity consumption during the day

When solar power generation is available during the day, it is possible to further increase the self-consumption ratio and profitability of solar energy by scheduling when solar power generation is at its highest. Such a strategy can significantly reduce the need for customers to purchase electricity from the grid.

For example, consider the following questions: What devices need to run around the clock, and some common devices include refrigerators, routers, and heating equipment.

In addition, consider spreading the operating time of frequent home cooking and using appliances such as washing machines and dishwashers so they can run at different times of the day. For those who are barely at home during the day, one should consider choosing a solar power system configured with lithium battery.

 

This way, when excess energy is generated, you can store it for use at night or on cloudy days. With these power usage strategies, you can make better use of your solar power system and achieve greater energy savings and economic benefits.

• Grid tariffs

In the case of high electricity prices, choosing to install a balcony power generation system will speed up the return on your investment.

5. What you need to consider before buying balcony solar panel

● Use a new meter

The goal of plug-in solar systems is to reduce the user's dependence on mains. However, in some cases, more solar power may be generated than is currently needed, and the excess power is incorporated into the grid. In order to prevent meter reversal, a bidirectional meter needs to be installed.

Therefore, before installing a balcony PV system, check with the grid operator if the meter needs to be replaced. Information can be found by typing your place of residence into an internet search engine and searching for "grid operator".

● Installation

When installing solar panels, it is important to ensure that a secure assembly is carried out. Here are some considerations and recommendations:

• Installation height restrictions

This type of installation may not be carried out in accordance with architectural glazing standards without first obtaining a general building permit or individual approval.

• Special solar modules

Some special solar modules may be approved for use. These modules can be identified by a general building inspection.

• Installation requirements

The installation of solar panels must meet the structural and strength requirements of the building. They should be able to withstand a variety of weather conditions, including storms, etc. Make sure to use a connection material that is durable and suitable for outdoor use, and avoid materials that are fragile or not weather-resistant.

6. How to buy balcony solar panel

So how to buy balcony solar panel for a home solar PV system? Before buying, you need to clearly choose what power solar cell modules are. If the annual electricity consumption of a household is less than 2,500 kWh, usually 300 watts of solar modules are sufficient.

You can also consider power inverter 3000w. But if the demand for electricity is greater during the day, more is needed. If you use more than 2,500 kWh of electricity per year, it's usually worth considering two balcony solar panels.

Cost: In most cases, the purchase cost will be recouped in less than a decade. When purchasing, there are also possible shipping costs and delivery times to consider, as it usually takes a few weeks for the supplier to deliver the mini PV system.

7. Conclusion

This is a simple solar PV system. Balcony solar panel is photovoltaic power generation systems that are installed on balconies. Easy to install, plug and play. All you need to do is attach the system to the balcony railing and plug the system cable into the socket at home.

 

Related articles: home energy storage, off grid solar batteries, solar panel angle

Solar panels have become increasingly popular among homeowners seeking ways to reduce their carbon footprint and save on energy bills. While solar panels can provide significant long-term savings and environmental benefits, they can also come with high upfront installation costs. They're not practical for every home or homeowner.

Getty Images/chandlerphoto

To know if solar panels are right for you, consider the weather conditions in your area, the slope of your roof, average monthly energy usage, and the length of time you plan to live in your home. Before installation can happen, you’ll need to understand better all possible financing options, as well the policies in place at your local utility company.

With competitive price and timely delivery, OMMO sincerely hope to be your supplier and partner.

How to Decide if Solar Panels Are Right for Your Home

Solar experts share the most important factors in deciding if solar panels are right for you.

Amount of Sunlight

First things first, if your home is in an area that doesn’t get much sun or has long parts of the year when it is overcast or dark, solar panels might not be right for you. Alan Duncan, founder of Solar Panels Network USA, says homeowners must evaluate their energy needs and the amount of sunlight their property receives. Does it tend to be cloudy or sunny where you live? Knowing the amount of sunlight your home gets during peak hours will aid in determining whether solar power would be a good energy solution for your household. If you’re not sure where to start, try free resources like Energy Sage and the free PDF e-book, To Catch the Sun, by Lonny Grafman and Joshua M. Pearce, Ph.D.

Roof Size and Slope

A roof’s orientation and condition determine whether it can support solar panels. Duncan says the direction and angle of the roof impacts solar panel efficiency. “Ideally, your roof should face south and have an angle between 30 and 45 degrees to maximize the amount of sunlight your panels receive,” he says. If your home has a flat roof, you may still be able to install solar panels. An expert installer will know how best to mount them to capture the most sunlight possible. 

Neil Gallagher, co-founder of BrighterWay Solar, reminds homeowners to ensure there is minimal shade or tree cover over their solar panels. If there is, be sure to budget for regular landscaping to have leaves and trees removed or trimmed. 

Roof Age and Condition

Solar panels can be installed on most roof types, including asphalt shingles, metal roofs, and flat roofs. But Duncan notes that a roof’s condition and age can impact the installation process and solar panel efficiency. He recommends assessing whether your roof is nearing expiration or in need of repairs. Also, Gallagher adds that it’s a good idea to have extra tiles on hand for tiled roofs, in case any get cracked during the installation process.

Current Energy Usage

Duncan also notes that having an understanding of energy usage patterns and how much your current energy bills are will help determine how much solar energy you need to generate. A reputable installer will estimate the cost per unit power ($/W). Dr. Pearce says to verify installer’s numbers against the free U.S. government site Pvwatts, and see if your solar panel system can produce enough energy to fully replace current household usage from the grid.

Budget and Financing

“While solar panels can provide significant cost savings in the long term,” Duncan says, “the initial investment can be expensive.” It is important to consider your installation budget to decide if the future utility savings is worth the swap. There are many financing options, such as solar leases and power purchase agreements. Most panel systems come with long-term warranties and limited maintenance, but you’ll need to consider any additional costs associated with homeowner’s insurance and roof care. 

For homeowners who only plan to live in their homes for just a few years before selling, installing solar panels may not be a good investment. However, if you’re living in your forever home and expect to have decades to see the savings accrue, solar panels tend to be a good long-term investment.

Incentives & Tax Credit Programs

There are many programs to incentivize homeowners to switch to solar energy. The Office of Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy updated its guide for Federal Tax Credits for 2023. There are also state programs for which many homeowners may be eligible. Many of these incentives are rebate programs that reimburse after you’ve already paid the upfront costs. So, it’s important to be able to absorb the initial costs and ensure you prepare all the documentation and process steps needed to get the maximum in rebates and incentives owed.

Available Providers

Gallagher encourages homeowners to research various installation companies and sales companies, which provide two separate services. “The sales organization is its own entity, and it will sell a product to the homeowner and turn it over to an installer that they have partnered with,” he says. It’s important to research both companies thoroughly to find the right combo for you. Also, not all solar companies provide services in every part of the state, so if you're looking for a solar provider in Florida, for example, check the company’s website for details.

City or HOA Approval

Before installing solar panels, you will likely need to obtain permits and approvals from local authorities. Duncan says that many cities and homeowner associations (HOAs) have specific guidelines for solar panel installation. Failure to obtain approval prior to the installation company beginning the work can result in fines or legal action. “To obtain approval, you will need to submit a permit application and detailed plans outlining the design and location of your solar panel system,” he says. Local solar installers usually can assist homeowners with this process to ensure the installation complies with all relevant regulations and guidelines, but it is the homeowner’s responsibility to confirm and comply with any state, county, and local regulations that may apply. 

Storing Excess Energy

Each utility company has its own rules about net metering and selling excess energy back to the grid. In many cases, when a household uses less energy than the solar panels harvest, the utility grid is willing to put those megawatts to good use and provide credits for the excess. The amount will vary depending on the utility company and region. Otherwise, you can store excess energy on batteries to use later when there’s low sunlight or high energy demand. Have a plan in place to ensure long-term sustainability.

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