Rooftop or balcony solar system? Here's how to find the best solution

Solar system on the roof or balcony? How to find the best solution

The decision between a rooftop PV system and a balcony power plant is a matter of personal situation. Tenants can only use the roof to a limited extent, while homeowners have more options, but also more obligations.

Balcony power plant: The solution for tenants and beginners

Advantages: No ownership required, low entry costs (from €200), easy self-installation, can be rented and transferred (take it with you when you move), and since Solar Package 1, a maximum of 800 watts without bureaucratic effort.

Disadvantages: Limited output, significantly lower annual yield than rooftop PV, dependent on balcony orientation.

Rooftop PV: The solution for homeowners

Advantages: Significantly higher annual yield (5,000–15,000 kWh), feed-in tariff, optimal alignment possible, high self-sufficiency with home storage.

Disadvantages: High initial investment (€10,000–30,000), installation by a specialized company, registration with the grid operator.

Hybrid solution: Balcony power plant + storage as a preliminary stage

Many homeowners initially use a balcony power plant with storage as their first solar system. This allows them to get to know the technology and later switch to a rooftop PV system. A Jackery SolarVault 3 Pro or an Anker Solarbank 3 can also continue to run as a garden or emergency power storage later on.

Conclusion: The right choice for you

• Tenants → Balcony power plant with 800 watts and optional storage
• Homeowners with a small budget → Balcony power plant as an entry point
• Homeowners with a budget from €10,000 → Rooftop PV with home storage
• Ambitious tenants → Balcony power plant + Jackery SolarVault as a maximum self-consumption solution