What Can You Power with a Mini Solar System?

Gunnar
Sep 1
2 min read

With energy prices on the rise and a growing interest in sustainable living, mini solar systems are a smart way to cut down on power bills. Inspired by the success of Balkonkraftwerk systems in Europe, these compact plug-and-play solar kits are now gaining popularity in New Zealand.

But what exactly can you power with one? And just as important—what can’t you do?

Let’s break it down.

First Things First: What Is a Mini Solar System?

A mini solar system—also called a plug-in solar kit or balcony solar system—is a small-scale solar setup designed to offset part of your electricity usage during the day. It usually includes:

2 or 4 solar panels
A micro-inverter, that connects to your phone
A mounting kit
A 240V cable to connect to a standard power socket

These systems are grid-tied, meaning they supply solar power into your home’s electrical circuit only when the grid is active. They're ideal for reducing daytime energy use—but not for backup or off-grid power.

What You Can Power with a Mini Solar System

A mini solar system helps power appliances that are running during sunny daytime hours—reducing how much electricity you draw from the grid.

For example, with a 800W microinverter system, you can cover part or all of the power needs of:

Typical Daytime Loads You Can Offset:

Appliance	Approx. Power Use
Wi-Fi Router	10–20W
Laptop or PC	30–100W
LED Lights (per bulb)	5–10W
TV	60–150W
Fridge (during compressor cycle)	80–150W
Phone Chargers	5–20W
Washing Machine (cold wash)	500–800W (briefly)

Your solar system won’t “power” these directly—it simply reduces how much power they draw from the grid while the sun is shining.

What You Can’t Do

Here’s where it’s important to set expectations:

Mini Solar Systems Are Not for:

Off-grid use (there will be an extension later)
Blackout or emergency power
Battery storage (unless added separately)
High-draw appliances (e.g. ovens, heaters, air conditioning)

Most mini solar systems are designed to shut off during a power outage. This is a safety feature known as "anti-islanding" that prevents solar power from flowing into the grid while lines are down.

In short: no grid = no power, even if the sun is shining.

Why These Systems Make Sense in New Zealand

New Zealand’s electricity prices—especially in urban areas—make these systems a great value over time. If you’re home during the day (or run devices like fridges or routers 24/7), a mini solar system can lower your bills with no need for a full solar installation.

Plus, they’re:

Easy to install (DIY-friendly)
Perfect for renters, small households, and apartments
Low maintenance