Balcony Solar Panels: The Pros, Cons and Pay Back

Are you considering making the switch to renewable energy? With an ever-growing list of advantages, installing solar panels has become a popular and smart choice for homeowners looking to reduce their carbon footprint, save on energy costs and invest in a sustainable future.

However, considering that 46% of Europeans live in an apartment or flat, many residents often wonder how they can make greener choices in their particular circumstances. With many feeling lost as to how they can take advantage of solar energy, it is easy to see why balcony solar panels are on the rise.

At BLUETTI, we are passionate about helping homeowners generate their own green energy to help build a future that benefits us all. Our balcony solar panel systems help to make solar more accessible, whether you are compromised on space or wish to take your solar panels with you when you move base.

What Is a Balcony Solar System?

Balcony solar systems can be characterised by their small, compact design. Made to fit onto balconies and other compromised outdoor spaces, they are a cost-effective and environmentally friendly solution to generating clean energy without installing roof-mounted panels.

Much like regular solar panels, the balcony system generates clean energy to power household appliances and is typically made up of three elements including solar panels, battery storage and inverters.

With advancements in technology and increasing demand for solar energy, more people who live in compact spaces are beginning to opt for balcony-mounted solar panels, with over one million European households being solar-powered.

What Are the Advantages of Having a Balcony Solar System?

Balcony solar panels come with many advantages. Like most renewable energy sources, solar energy is one of the most consistent options for generating electricity. As long as the solar panels are in direct sunlight for at least four hours a day, you should be good to go!

Reduce Electricity Bills

By reducing your reliance on the national grid, installing solar panels can help households to save significant amounts on their electricity bills. Solar systems provide the opportunity to reduce monthly utility bills while making a long-term, low-risk investment.

At BLUETTI, we are aware of the persistent pressures on households during the current cost of living crisis. As it continues, our team generated the BLUETTI Balcony Solar Generator kits to ensure that energy can be easily accessible for all and to help households cut back on living expenses.

Low Maintenance

Solar panels, especially when in an easy-to-reach place such as a balcony, are simple to maintain. Brushing away any debris and cleaning them with soap and water will help you to make the most of your solar panel system.

Solar panels should work efficiently without needing a yearly service, meaning there should also be no extra costs for maintenance packages.

Portable Solar Panels

One of the best things about balcony-mounted solar panels is their portability. While rooftop solar panels cannot be easily reinstalled in another house when moving, balcony systems can easily be packed away and moved to a different location if you choose to relocate.

By investing in portable solar panels, you are also investing in the freedom to harness the power of the sun from wherever you may be. Whether you are off-grid camping or have an exciting outdoor production planned, you will already be well-equipped with solar panels to help keep you connected.

What Are the Disadvantages of Balcony Solar Panels?

Unfortunately, on average, there can be a 20-30% decrease in electricity production when the weather conditions are cloudy. As the sun is continuously moving across the sky, the optimal angle for the panels will only be at its most effective angle for two hours of the day.

It is also important to check the property restrictions, as some complexes can have limitations imposed by the property owners or landlords that prohibit the installation of balcony solar panels.

What Can You Power With Balcony Solar Panels?

A system that covers the balcony can be capable of powering equipment of around 400W for six to seven hours. They can be used to power various home devices, similar to standard rooftop solar panels.

However, by including a battery with the system, you can create a solar-powered charging station which can run laptops, phones and even emergency lights. Additional battery storage also enables households to store any excess electricity that has been generated throughout the day to keep household appliances running throughout the night.

How to Build a Solar Generator on a Balcony

Firstly, you will need to install solar panels in your outdoor space by mounting them onto the railings on the balcony. Then, by connecting them to the battery system, your solar panel system will be ready to use.

At BLUETTI, we offer a range of solar generator bundles that are perfect for small and compact outdoor spaces. Whether you choose our AC200MAX + 2*PV350?for power and flexibility or are looking for the advanced Battery Management System that comes with our EP500Pro + 2*PV350 solar generator kit, there are plenty of options to choose from.

What Is the Payback Period?

The average solar panel payback period is between six to ten years. High-quality solar panel systems can often last 25 years or longer, with the Department of Energy saying that systems can even last longer than 35. This means that households can enjoy 15 to 29 years of energy savings after paying back the initial investment.

But how can you calculate the payback period? While it can initially appear complicated, by simply dividing the system cost by the annual electricity savings, you can figure out the payback period of your solar panel system.

If you would like to learn more, please contact a member of the BLUETTI team today!