MORE GOOD IDEAS FOR SOLAR.

More than 500,000 plug-in solar systems have been installed in Germany, most of them taking up a seamless spot on people’s balconies. New data shows another 220,000 PV devices were installed in the first half of 2024. A boom born from Germany’s “very strong solar culture”, in the words of one expert. From a customer point of view, the main difference is that balcony PV is much easier to install. You can buy the kit online, and don’t need an electrician to set it up. Unlike for rooftop installations, where certified installers are recommended to avoid fire risks and damage to the structure. “The main reason for the success of balcony solar systems is that it gives people the chance to use solar who weren’t able to use it before,” says a spokesperson for German manufacturer Meyer Burger. “Most people don’t own a house, or they cannot install rooftop solar because of heritage protection, shading, or other constructional conditions of the roof. For them, balcony solar is appealing because they can use solar power to generate their own electricity and reduce their electric bills.” Germany was one of the first countries to invest in solar technology, and now produces the most electricity from solar power in Europe.