When a mini solar system is not allowed
A balcony power station is a simple and relatively inexpensive way to immediately reduce long-term energy costs. If you want to use such a mini solar system, you have to be careful. Because that’s not allowed in every city. The magic words here are preservation statutes and monument protection. But something is happening there, too, because climate change is now playing a much bigger role than it used to.
Balcony power plant may be prohibited
ready to plug in Mini solar systems are very trendy. Prices have skyrocketed due to high demand due to exploding energy costs. Nevertheless, the purchase is worthwhile, because after 10 years at the latest you have covered the costs and can then generate energy or mine Bitcoin free of charge for over 15 years. Balcony power plants are permitted in most cities in Germany.
But there are famous exceptions, such as in Frankfurt. Only two mini solar systems were approved there in 2020, although there was great interest even then. The reason? The Conservation Statute. You were not allowed to change the exterior of the building. Whether it was just a solar panel on the balcony railing or something similar. That was forbidden and the building authority didn’t allow it. The new coalition, however, provides a remedybecause in Frankfurt, too, balcony power plants are to be permitted and even subsidized in the conservation statute (source: FR). The tide can turn so quickly.
But not only the preservation statute can become a problem. Monument protection also plays an important role. There have often been reports that owners of solar systems have been asked to remove them because they no longer fit into the appearance of the object worthy of preservation. Here, balcony power plants in the visible area are also taboo.
This electric car has its own solar system:
What should one do before buying a balcony power plant?
A local research helps to find out the laws and rules in your own city or community. If you are still unsure, you can ask the building authority. Because that’s what gets you on your toes when you’ve done something wrong. So find out beforehand whether a plug-in mini solar system is allowed in your area.
