Going Green on a Smaller Scale: Assessing the Benefits of Balcony Solar Panels in Germany
Approximately one-fourth of Germans express readiness for solar panel installation on balconies.
Interested in harnessing the power of the sun on a smaller scale? Solar panels for balconies are on the rise, with a staggering 25% of Germans open to this eco-friendly option. But before you leap, let's delve into the factors affecting profitability and the potential payback period.
A recent survey revealed that 9% of Germans have already installed a mini solar panel on their balcony, while another 17% plan to join the solar revolution. However, around 21% of respondents lack the necessary space, and 15% find the investment not worthwhile [1]. Just under 20% of those polled are reluctant, with another 19% still indecisive. The survey, conducted by Innofact, collected data from 1007 participants and was weighed to reflect the general populace [2].
Location plays a crucial role in the success of a balcony solar panel system. Those with south-facing balconies, at a slight incline, and free from shadows, are likely to reap the most benefits. Unfortunately, those with north-facing balconies and only vertical installation may only achieve a third of the potential yield [3].
Savings and Investment Costs
A balcony solar panel system with an output of 800 watts could produce around 760 kilowatt hours (kWh) of electricity annually under ideal conditions. If 60% (456 kWh) is used, it can lead to annual savings of approximately 160 euros, based on an average price of 34.7 cents/kWh [4]. The cost of purchasing a system of this size, between 500-800 euros, recovers within 2.5 to 5 years, according toVerivox, with potential savings of around 3160 euros over 20 years [5]. Some federal states also subsidize the purchase of balcony solar panels.
Profitability Factors and Payback Period
The profitability of balcony solar panels depends on various factors, including the initial investment cost, energy yield, legislation, operating costs, and incentives. Efficient systems and those with lower upfront costs might have shorter payback periods [6]. In Germany, the average payback period for solar panels ranges from 5 to 10 years, depending on these factors. For balcony systems, with their lower initial cost and simplicity, the payback period may be shorter.
Despite their growing popularity, balcony solar panels still face challenges. Incentives for these systems might not be as extensive as for larger solar panel installations. However, as technology advances and public interest grows, it is possible that more incentives will become available in the future.
Sources:
[1] ntv.de
[2] mau
[3] Enphase Energy
[4] Verivox
[5] German Solar Industry Association (BSW-Solar)
[6] Photovoltaics Glossary
Keywords:
- Solar energy
- Solar industry
- Solar panels
- Solar promotion
- Electricity price
- Small solar systems
- Balcony solar systems
- Solar power for apartments
- Eco-friendly energy solutions
- Renewable energy incentives
- With about 25% of Germans expressing interest, the market for small and medium-sized solar panels on balconies is evidently growing.
- Factors affecting the profitability and payback period of small and medium-sized solar panels in Germany include the initial investment cost, energy yield, legislation, operating costs, incentives, and location.
- The potential benefits of small and medium-sized solar panel systems for small and medium-sized undertakings in Germany include savings, subsidies, and eco-friendly practices.
- Information on the finance, energy, industry, and technology relating to small and medium-sized solar panel systems can be found on various internet platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Whatsapp, email, print, and copy.
- The worthwhile benefits of small and medium-sized solar panel systems make it a valuable investment for German small and medium-sized undertakings, especially with solar panel systems designed for balconies that show significant savings and potential returns in a shorter payback period.
