In Poland, the issue of installing photovoltaic panels on a balcony is still complicated. Before we decide on this, we must obtain the consent of the building owner, manager or cooperative. The location is also crucial – the balcony should be properly lit. However, management boards and cooperatives are reluctant to agree to such installations, primarily out of concern for structural safety and aesthetics. Meanwhile, such panels are becoming more and more common in Germany.
Is photovoltaics on the balcony profitable? He showed how much he managed to save
German journalist Peter Hryciuk installed the panels on the balcony in 2021. He used the “balcony power plant” for his own use and used the energy produced in his apartment. After three years, he decided to check how much he had achieved during 35 months of use.
The set consisted of 800 W panels and a 600 W inverter. The journalist described how much he managed to produce and consume. The self-assembly installation generated 1,287 kWh. The man used 1,092 kWh for his own use. The remaining 205 kWh was “given” to the operator. The journalist checked all the numbers thanks to a two-way counter.
As he calculated, in 2021 and 2022 he saved EUR 165.60 on bills, in 2023 already EUR 167.60. In 2024, from January to May, he saved EUR 41.40. At prices of 30-40 cents per kWh, the total savings over three years amounted to 374.60 euros, i.e. almost PLN 1,600. The set cost 800 euros, so the investment should “pay off after approximately 6 years from purchase”, producing “free of charge” for the next 19 years.
Photovoltaics on the balcony (illustrative photo) Photo Arkadiusz Stankiewicz / Agencja Wyborcza.pl
He installed photovoltaic panels on the balcony. The cooperative sued him
The fact that installing photovoltaics on a balcony, despite the financial benefits, is still problematic in Poland is shown by a story described in April 2024: A man bought a set of panels for a balcony online. The installation’s power exceeded 800 W, so it was necessary to inform the power company. – The installer came, replaced the meter with a two-way one, and I obtained the status of a prosumer – he said in an interview with “Gazeta Wyborcza”. The problem, however, was that the man installed the panels against the cooperative’s consent, which did not consent to it despite the positive opinions of the appraiser, architect and other residents. However, the cooperative did not provide a reason for the refusal. The case went to court. If you feel like it, vote in our poll below.
Source: Gazeta
Bruce is a talented author and journalist with a passion for entertainment . He currently works as a writer at the 247 News Agency, where he has established himself as a respected voice in the industry.
