Eco-Friendly and Efficient: How Balcony Solar Panels Promote Sustainability
Before addressing the "how", it's important to clarify the "what". What does the term sustainability actually mean, and where does it originate? Sustainability describes a principle of action for resource use, focusing on deploying resources to create a production cycle that considers resource finiteness. Simply put: we should avoid exploiting nature. This principle was first applied in forestry, where only as much wood is harvested as can regrow, creating an unending cycle.
The same is now happening in the energy sector. Sustainable energy means using resources that allow us to create a continuous cycle. What could be more sensible than using the energy of the sun, which shines every day? With solar technology, we can capture solar energy and convert it into electricity, which is so vital for us. Compared to electricity generated from coal, gas, and nuclear power, solar energy is environmentally friendly. Solar panels are capable of producing multiple times the energy they consume and additionally provide electricity for our daily needs over many decades. The sun serves as an inexhaustible source of energy in this process.
Sustainable Energy from Your Own Balcony
In addition to solar energy, wind power is also considered a sustainable energy technology. However, it is almost impossible for individuals to use wind power on private property to any beneficial effect. Therefore, solar technology is rapidly being adopted across all demographics. Solar technology can be utilized anywhere it can produce electricity, whether in private homes or apartments. The circumstances and opportunities vary greatly. Given the rising energy prices, even the smallest solar installations have become worthwhile. The terms "balcony power plant" or "balcony solar system" refer to systems up to 800 watts that can be installed without building regulation compliance. Only the manufacturer's specifications and general safety and order regulations need to be considered. The bureaucratic effort has also been minimized, requiring only notification to the energy provider about the system's operation.
Besides traditional balcony installation, small solar systems can also be mounted on flat roofs, in gardens, or on building facades. It cannot be universally stated which location is best. The decision depends on the level of energy yield, personal preference, and architectural conditions. For tenants of apartment buildings, the balcony or facade generally offers a suitable location. However, tenants should ask their landlords for permission beforehand. This process might be simplified in the future, as the current government plans changes, although these have not yet been implemented.
Advantages of Balcony Solar Modules
Some advantages of generating energy at home have already been discussed. For private individuals, one of the most important points is surely the reduction of energy costs. As the costs of not only electricity but also gas have risen sharply in recent times, generating energy on the balcony is increasingly worthwhile.
For private users of a balcony power plant, the effects of their own electricity production are immediately noticeable after the system is operational. Every kilowatt-hour produced reduces the amount of electricity you need to purchase from your energy provider, turning into real savings!
To make the most of the electricity you produce, it is advisable to optimize your household electricity use where possible. First, check the electrical appliances in your home. Are there any "energy hogs" that could be replaced with much more efficient devices? Or perhaps some devices could be eliminated altogether. Many households, for example, still use traditional light bulbs, which can be relatively easily replaced with much more efficient LED technology. There are also devices that are often just incorrectly set, such as electric instantaneous water heaters. Often, these heaters are set to the highest level, causing the water to become very hot and needing to be tempered with cold water to reach the right temperature. This setting consumes an incredible amount of electricity and water. A simple adjustment to a comfortable temperature can save a substantial amount of both, thus saving money.
Environmental Protection Made Easy: Focus on Balcony Solar Modules
As previously described, both the setup and the installation, commissioning, and bureaucracy of balcony solar systems are highly simplified, so that virtually anyone can use their own small solar system. Essentially, the system is installed according to the manufacturer's instructions, connected to the building's electrical circuit with a simple plug, and registered with the energy provider. It's that easy, especially when using a complete set from OneStep.Solar.