Is there a height limit for mounting balcony solar power systems?
The removal of the 4m limit.
Balcony power plants are on the rise worldwide. They are becoming an integral part of modern urban landscapes. But what is the current legal situation regarding installation and mounting? We shed light on the subject and dispel some common misconceptions.
The prohibition on mounting balcony power plants with glass modules above a height of four meters has been declared invalid. Previously, the widespread belief was that this was not allowed or only possible with special permits, based on DIN standard 18008 for glass in construction and building regulations. It has now been officially confirmed that this interpretation is incorrect. The previous regulation regarding overhead glazing was solely intended to ensure that glass is securely and stably mounted at a height above 4m. However, this regulation was intended for larger construction projects, not for private balcony power plants.
What is the legal situation regarding the installation of balcony power plants at a height of four meters?
The trigger for the discussion is whether a balcony power plant and its associated modules are considered construction products. This is true for solar modules of conventional photovoltaic systems. However, balcony power plants are subject to a different assessment.
At this point, we quote the German Institute for Structural Engineering with the following statement:
"Plug-in PV systems - so-called 'balcony power plants' - consist of photovoltaic modules, inverters, cables with plugs and are connected to the consumer circuit via a socket outlet. Unlike photovoltaic systems that are permanently connected to the circuit and where the connection between the building structure and the power source cannot be easily dissolved, the connection to the building structure can be easily disconnected by simply pulling the plug for 'balcony power plants', and the 'balcony solar system' can be easily and quickly removed from the balcony by the user (e.g., when a tenant moves out) without much effort. Since in this case the solar modules are not permanently installed in the building structure, they are not construction products within the meaning of § 2 (10) No. 1 MBO."
What may sound somewhat complex and cumbersome at first reading simply means that balcony solar power systems are not considered construction products because they can be easily disconnected from the power grid, and their dismantling can also be done quickly and without much effort. Properly implemented mounting is considered safe. Nevertheless, the substrate on which the solar modules of your balcony power plant are mounted should be load-bearing and stable. To prevent potential damages, consumers should ensure that their balcony power plant is technically correct and weather-resistant mounted. Check with your insurance company to find out who is liable for damages to or caused by the balcony power plant.
Would you still like to play it safe, lightweight and flexible solar modules might be worth considering for you.
They offer a range of advantages over traditional modules:
Easy Installation: Due to their low weight, lightweight solar modules are easier and quicker to install, saving time and labor costs.
Versatile Applications: Because of their flexibility, these modules can be installed on a variety of surfaces, including curved or uneven surfaces such as curved roofs, balconies, or fences.
Reduced Risk of Structural Damage: The low weight and flexibility of the modules reduce the risk of structural damage to buildings or other surfaces on which they are installed.
Aesthetic Design: Lightweight solar modules often have a sleek and inconspicuous design that integrates well with the architecture without compromising the appearance.
High Energy Efficiency: Modern lightweight solar modules offer high energy efficiency and can effectively generate energy even in diffuse sunlight or partially shaded areas. However, they still lag slightly behind in direct comparison.
Transport and Storage Advantages: The low weight and compact size make transportation, storage, and installation easier. Overall, lightweight and flexible solar modules provide a practical and efficient solution for various applications where traditional modules may not be suitable.
Overall, lightweight and flexible solar modules offer a practical and efficient solution for various applications where conventional modules may not be suitable.
What does this mean for owners and interested individuals of balcony solar power systems?
With the removal of the "Four Meter Rule," residents on the higher floors can now produce their own electricity without any legal barriers or concerns.
