Powering homes with balcony solar systems

Photo: Pixabay

WHILE the use of rooftop solar systems have expanded in Malaysia, those who live in high-rise buildings, rent their homes or do not have access to suitable roof space are unable to benefit from solar energy even if they want to have it.

Balcony solar systems, which consist of small solar panels connected to a microinverter and plugged into a household electrical socket, provide an affordable and practical alternative.

Germany’s experience demonstrates the potential of this approach. Known as Balkonkraftwerke or plug-in solar systems, these small solar installations have become increasingly popular among ordinary households.

The country’s Federal Network Agency (Bundesnetzagentur) registered about 435,000 new plug-in balcony solar installations in 2024 alone, contributing around 0.4 gigawatts of additional solar capacity.

The rapid growth of balcony solar systems in Germany shows that renewable energy adoption does not have to be limited to homeowners with large rooftops. Apartment dwellers, tenants and ordinary consumers can also become participants in the energy transition when barriers such as high upfront costs, complicated approvals and lack of roof access are reduced.

Malaysia is particularly well suited for such a programme because of its abundant sunlight throughout the year.

A properly regulated balcony solar system could help households generate electricity during daylight hours, reducing their dependence on grid-supplied electricity and lowering monthly electricity expenses.

The Consumers’ Association of Penang (CAP) calls on the government to consider introducing a regulated balcony solar programme in Malaysia to enable more households, particularly apartment residents and tenants, to participate in renewable energy generation and reduce their electricity bills.

CAP recognises concerns that widespread adoption of small solar systems could affect the electricity distribution network. However, Germany’s experience shows that the impact of individual systems is small and the electricity generated is largely consumed close to where it is produced.

At the same time, CAP emphasises that consumer safety must remain the highest priority. Only certified solar panels, inverters and installation systems should be permitted. Systems must include essential safety features such as anti-islanding protection, which automatically disconnects solar generation during power failures to protect electricity workers and the public.

Malaysia should also utilise the ongoing deployment of smart meters to prepare for a future where electricity flows in both directions. Smart and bidirectional metering can help ensure accurate monitoring of electricity consumption and any surplus electricity supplied back to the grid.

CAP therefore urges the government, Energy Commission, the Energy Transition and Water Transformation Ministry, the Sustainable Energy Development Authority (Seda) Malaysia and electricity provider companies to conduct a feasibility study on introducing balcony solar systems.

The study should address:

> Safety standards and product certification;

> Installation requirements for high rise buildings;

> Consumer protection measures;

> Landlord and strata management considerations;

> Grid integration requirements; and

> Fair arrangements for any surplus electricity exported to the grid.

The success of balcony solar systems in Germany demonstrates that energy transition can be made more inclusive by putting renewable energy generation within the reach of ordinary consumers. Malaysia should explore this opportunity so that apartment residents, tenants and households without rooftop access are not left behind in the move towards a cleaner and more affordable energy future.

High-rise buildings with flat roofs can benefit from such systems by reducing electricity costs for common areas. Solar panels also provide shade that protects roofs from weather exposure, reduces heat transfer to top floors and helps extend roof lifespan. These benefits can lower maintenance costs and reduce the financial burden of residents.

MOHIDEEN ABDUL KADER

President

Consumers’ Association of Penang