Connecting a balcony power plant – everything you need to know

They have decided to be part of the energy transition and have chosen a Balcony Solar Panel You've added it to your order. Now all you need to do is connect your new balcony power plant. Don't have much experience installing outdoor electrical equipment? No problem at all! In this article, we'll show you how to properly connect a balcony power plant and benefit from energy self-sufficiency. Even if you haven't yet decided to purchase a balcony power plant, it's worthwhile to gather information beforehand. Especially now, it can be advantageous to connect a new balcony power plant. The power limit was increased from 600 W to 800 W in May 2024, allowing you to cover a larger portion of your private electricity consumption yourself.

Step-by-step instructions: How to connect a balcony power plant yourself

Fortunately, balcony power plants are designed specifically for private use. Therefore, they are quite easy to install, even for beginners. Nevertheless, it doesn't hurt to get an overview of the process. It's also important that a balcony power plant is securely mounted to ensure stability. Furthermore, the correct positioning of the balcony power plant can significantly improve efficiency. So, taking a look at the basics is worthwhile.

Installation of the solar panels

The good news first: You can legally install a balcony power plant yourself. It's not legally necessary to hire an expert. Therefore, installing a balcony power plant won't incur any costs. Follow these steps and consult the installation instructions if you have any questions:

1. Attach brackets: First, you need to install fixings on your balcony. These could be, for example, Hooks for balcony railings – balcony brackets These should be hooks that can be easily attached to railings. After you have screwed the hooks in place, hang your balcony power plant and hold it securely.
2. Attaching solar panels: Once your balcony power plant is in the correct position, screw it onto the hook. It's best to do this with two people. If you have difficulty installing it from the balcony side, it can be helpful to use a ladder to assist from the outside.
3. Tighten stainless steel cable ties: You should then reinforce the structure with stainless steel cable ties. This will further secure your balcony power plant to your balcony, providing even greater stability. This will also protect the solar panels from storms.

Connecting a balcony power plant to the house grid

You have now securely mounted your balcony power plant. The mechanical installation is complete. Now we move on to connecting it to your home's electrical system. Since solar panels generate direct current (DC), it is important to connect the individual panels to an inverter. This converts the DC into alternating current (AC), which can be used in your home's electrical system. Many of our models already include an inverter, such as our [model name/model name]. 890W Bifacial Balcony Power Plant with Hoymiles HMS-800W-2T MicroinverterBelow you will find step-by-step instructions on how to connect the inverter to a balcony power plant and finally connect it to the house's electrical grid. This will ensure that you connect your balcony power plant correctly and follow the proper sequence:

1. Connect solar modules to a microinverter: Microinverters offer inputs for cables from individual solar panels, allowing for a direct connection. It is advisable to mount the inverter close to the solar panels to minimize the space required for the wiring. However, it is important to ensure the inverter is positioned in a shaded location to protect it from direct sunlight.
2. Connect the inverter to the home electrical system: Once all solar panels are connected to the inverter, you can connect your balcony power system to your home's electrical grid. This is done by connecting the inverter to your home's electrical system. The standard procedure is to connect the inverter's Schuko plug to the nearest wall socket. It's best to check beforehand whether the cable length from the planned location of the inverter to the nearest socket is sufficient.

With these two basic steps, you have completed the installation of your balcony power plant. They apply to most installations. However, if you want to connect a balcony power plant with a battery storage system, you should remember to connect it to the inverter as well. The easiest way is to install a battery storage system directly during the initial installation. Therefore, we recommend models like ours. 890W Bifacial Balcony Power Plant with Storagewhich includes a suitable storage option. Generally, you should carefully check the installation instructions for your specific model before you begin connecting your balcony power plant.

First connect the balcony power plant, then register.

Once you have successfully installed your balcony power plant, you are technically ready to put it into operation immediately. However, there are still some formalities that need to be completed. You must register your balcony power plant in the Market Master Data Register (MaStR). This offers two advantages: As part of the planned energy transition, the registration process for balcony power plants has been simplified. 

Registration can be easily completed online. Furthermore, you have one month to register your balcony power plant after connecting it. Direct registration with the grid operator has been unnecessary since May 2024; it is now handled automatically by the Federal Network Agency via the MaStR (Market Master Data Register). For homeowners, registration is simpler than ever. But even tenants benefit from the favorable legal framework. If you want to connect a balcony power plant, your landlord's consent is no longer required. Moreover, without a valid reason, they cannot refuse installation.

Performance tips: How to efficiently connect a balcony power plant

Even before you connect your balcony power plant, you should carefully consider the position of the solar panels. The location in relation to the sun and the building structure can be crucial for efficient power generation. To help you connect your balcony power plant efficiently, we have compiled some practical tips for you:

• Orient balcony power plant to the south: If possible, you should mount your balcony power plant facing south. The reason is that the solar panels will then be in contact with sunlight for most of the day, as the sun spends the longest time in the south.
• Alternatively, orient to the east or west: If you don't have a south-facing balcony, don't despair. The alternatives are similarly efficient and will pay off for you. If you orient your balcony power plant to the east, you'll generate a lot of electricity in the morning. A west-facing orientation, on the other hand, makes particularly efficient use of the evening hours. If you have the option, you can also orient one module to the east and one to the west on a flat roof. This way, you'll benefit from a more consistent electricity production throughout the day. 
• Ideally, the sun should be directed perpendicularly: Most energy is generated when the sun's rays hit the solar panels perpendicularly. In summer, the optimal tilt angle is between 30 and 35 degrees. This can be optimized depending on the season. However, a balcony solar power system doesn't always offer enough flexibility to achieve this perfect angle. This isn't a major drawback, though. If you and your family are out at midday, the generated energy can't be used anyway.  
• Avoid shading the solar panels: To avoid power loss, it is essential to prevent any shading of the solar panels. A shadow on the solar panels reduces the output of your balcony power system far more than a less-than-ideal orientation. However, "shadow" doesn't just refer to large, obvious shadows cast by trees. Even the smallest shadows, such as those from an antenna, can lead to significant power losses if they fall on the solar panels.

Safety instructions for connecting your balcony power plant

When connecting your balcony power plant, always keep safety in mind. This is important not only to protect the solar panels from damage, but also the residents of the house. Here are a few general tips to help ensure the proper use of your balcony power plant:

• Robust mounting: To ensure your balcony power plant is securely fastened even in storms, you should have it professionally installed. brackets use. 
• Good position for the inverter: An inverter should ideally be positioned in a weather-protected location. Even though most modern models can withstand wind and rain, excessive direct sunlight can still cause damage in the long run.
• Inverter with grid protection: The inverter should have integrated grid protection. Grid and system protection (NA protection) disconnects the device from your home's electrical system in the event of a power surge. This prevents people from suffering electric shocks. We only offer inverters that have this integrated grid protection.
• Height is irrelevant: You may have read that you are only allowed to install a balcony power plant with glass panels up to a height of 4 meters. However, this is incorrect. Since balcony power plants are plug-in systems and not classified as building products, they can actually be installed at any height.

Connecting a balcony power plant: Your first step towards self-sufficiency

With the right know-how, you can install a balcony power plant even without professional help. Make sure it's securely mounted, has the correct wiring, and is positioned efficiently for your balcony. If you're ready to take the first step towards a more affordable power supply, visit our online shop. There you'll find... balcony power plants, which are suitable for your situation and can reliably handle part of your electricity supply.

Connecting a balcony power plant: frequently asked questions

If you still have questions, you'll find the answers here. We've compiled and answered the most frequently asked questions about connecting a balcony power plant:

Do I only need an inverter to connect my balcony power plant?

Yes, a balcony power plant only requires an inverter for connection. This is already included in the scope of delivery for many products.

How do I best align my balcony power plant when connecting it?

Balcony power plants produce the most electricity when they are oriented directly south. A tilt of 30 to 35 degrees is recommended in summer, while a tilt of 55 to 60 degrees is optimal in winter.

Where do I need to register my balcony power plant after connecting it?

You only need to register your balcony power plant with the Market Master Data Register (MaStR). You have one month after commissioning to do so.

How can I safely connect my balcony power plant?

Use professional mounting brackets to hang and screw in your balcony power plant. If mounting it on a balcony, additionally secure the structure with stainless steel cable ties. Also, make sure to position the inverter so that it is as well protected from direct sunlight as possible.

Can I connect my balcony power plant myself?

Yes, you can connect a balcony power plant without professional help. Follow the instructions in our article and read the installation guide carefully.