- What Can a Solar Panel Power in an Apartment?
- Types of Solutions: From Mini Solar Systems to Full Balcony Kits
- How to Choose the Right Solar Panel for Your Apartment
- Do You Need Permission to Install Balcony Solar in Europe?
- Do You Need a Battery in an Apartment?
- Common Mistakes When Choosing Apartment Solar Panels
What Can a Solar Panel Power in an Apartment?
Solar panels for apartments – especially balcony solar systems – have become a practical way to generate part of your own electricity, reduce energy bills, and gain partial independence even in multi-storey buildings. Mini solar kits are ideal for:
Supporting Essential Devices:
- Wi-Fi router
- Laptop / PC
- Phone charging
- Desk lighting
- Small TV
- Security system
Balcony solar panels typically power devices up to 400–800 W combined and are often used with portable power stations or plug-in microinverter systems.
In most EU countries, “plug-in balcony solar” (Balkonkraftwerk) has become one of the fastest-growing segments of distributed energy.
Types of Solutions: From Mini Solar Systems to Full Kits
Mini Solar System for Apartments (1-2 Panels + Controller)
- Works with portable power stations (EcoFlow, Bluetti, Zendure)
- Can use a 12/24V controller + battery
- Easy balcony or window installation
- Portable and renter-friendly
- Works even with partial shading
Perfect for tenants or small spaces.
Balcony Solar System (300-800 W)
The most popular format across Europe.
- Covers internet, lighting, laptop
- Uses microinverter plugged directly into a socket
- Suitable for balcony railing or wall mounting
In many EU countries, up to 800 W plug-in systems are allowed without complex procedures.
Mini Solar Kit with Battery (1-2 Panels + 1-2 kWh Battery)
A true mini solar power plant for apartments.
- Provides backup up to 6-8 hours depending on usage
- Powers router 24/7
- Covers laptop, lighting, charging
- Offers partial outage protection
Full Apartment Solar Kit (2-4 Panels + Inverter + Battery)
Suitable if you have:
- Spacious south or southeast-facing balcony
- Roof access with HOA approval
- External wall installation option
Can power most household essentials and provide 8–10 hours of backup depending on battery size.
How to Choose the Right Solar Panel for Your Apartment
Balcony Orientation
- South-facing → maximum output
- East or West → good performance
- North → generally not recommended
Installation
Balcony systems use:
- Railing mounting brackets
- Adjustable frames
- Wall-mounted systems
- Balcony trackers (angle-adjustable)
Shading
Air conditioners, walls, trees, or other balconies can reduce output by up to 40%. It’s important to evaluate sunlight throughout the day.
With or Without Battery?
Without battery → focus on reducing electricity bills.
With battery → gain backup power during outages.
Balcony Space
A standard efficient panel measures approximately 1.7 × 1.1 meters. Limited space means limited generation.
Can You Install a Solar System for an Apartment Without Permits in Europe?
In many EU countries, small balcony solar systems do not require complex permits.
Usually No Permit Needed If:
- The panel is installed inside the balcony railing
- The facade is not structurally modified
- A plug-in microinverter system (≤800 W) is used
Approval May Be Required If:
- Panels extend beyond balcony boundaries
- Installation changes the building facade
- Panels are installed on a shared roof (HOA decision needed)
Regulations vary slightly by country (Germany, Austria, Netherlands, Poland, etc.), but simplified procedures are becoming standard across the EU.
If unsure – send us a photo of your balcony, and we’ll advise.лкона – ми скажемо, чи потрібен дозвіл, і підберемо правильний варіант.
Do You Need a Battery in an Apartment?
A battery is not mandatory but highly recommended in certain cases.
No Battery:
- Focus on saving money
- Daytime self-consumption
- Lower investment cost
With Battery:
- Backup during outages
- Work-from-home stability
- Continuous Wi-Fi and lighting
- Some systems can power a small fridge
Choose a battery if:
- Outages occur
- You work remotely
- You want real autonomy
- You install a full solar kit
Common Mistakes When Choosing Apartment Solar Panels
Installing panels on a north-facing balcony
Ignoring shading analysis
Buying oversized systems for limited space
Assuming a single panel can power the entire apartment
Forgetting that balcony solar reduces bills but does not fully replace grid electricity
Not Sure Which Apartment Solar System Fits You?
That’s completely normal. Every balcony is different — orientation, shading, space, and local regulations matter.
We’ll Help You Choose the Right Setup
Rubikon provides a free balcony analysis and recommends the most efficient configuration for your space and budget. We explain everything clearly – no unnecessary technical jargon.
Send us a photo of your balcony and we’ll calculate the optimal solar kit for your apartment.
