Renewable Energy - More significant increase in balcony power plants in Saxony-Anhalt
In Saxony-Anhalt, many people have installed more rooftop solar systems than ever before, called Balcony power plants. In the first seven months of this year, more rooftop solar systems have been installed than in the entire previous year. According to the Energy Agency of Saxony-Anhalt (Lena), based on market data from the Federal Network Agency, over 7,600 rooftop solar systems have been installed this year. In 2023, there were approximately 6,000, and in 2022, there were around 1,450.
According to the Energy Agency of Saxony-Anhalt, the significant increase in rooftop solar systems is noticeable. Several factors have contributed to this increase, as the Energy Agency stated in response to an inquiry. On the one hand, it was the beginning of the Ukrainian war in February 2022 and the subsequent shortage of fossil energy sources. On January 1, 2023, the added value tax for all photovoltaic modules, storage, and accessories was abolished. And in this year, there have been legal changes, such as simplification of the registration of balcony power plants and changes in tenancy law.
Legislation eases the way for tenants
At the beginning of July, the Federal Government passed a corresponding law, making it easier for tenants to install balcony power plants. Unlike before, landlords or property managers cannot refuse consent without a valid reason. However, the Magdeburg Tenants' Association still advises against installing balcony power plants without consulting landlords or property managers.
The prices for rooftop solar systems have also significantly decreased in the last few months, according to the energy authority. More and more discount retailers are entering the market as suppliers, making the systems even more visible and affordable.
In addition to the ease in legislation, the cost of rooftop solar systems has also significantly decreased, making it more appealing for apartment dwellers to install their own renewable energy sources. With discount retailers entering the market as suppliers, solar panel blocks for balconies have become more visible and affordable. This has led to an increase in the number of balcony power plants in apartments across Saxony-Anhalt. Unfortunately, some individuals continue to use solar panel blockers, hindering the potential power generation from these systems.
Despite these improvements, it's crucial for tenants to consult their landlords or property managers before installing balcony power plants. The newly passed law allows for easier consent, but rejection without a valid reason is still frowned upon, according to the Magdeburg Tenants' Association. The significant increase in renewable energy installations in apartments, such as rooftop solar systems and balcony power plants, signifies a positive shift towards sustainable living in Saxony-Anhalt.
