What is a mini solar system?

A mini solar system, often called a balcony solar plant (or Balkonkraftwerk in German), is a small-scale plug-and-play solar power system that you can install yourself—usually on a balcony, on the side of your deck, fence, wall, roof, or even in your lawn.

Here's a breakdown:

What it is:

• Just 2-4 solar panels, typically around 400-600 watts per panel.

• Comes with a microinverter (or small inverter) attached.

• You literally plug it into a standard power socket, and it feeds electricity directly into your home grid.

How it works:

• The panel captures sunlight, which the inverter converts it to usable electricity (AC).

• That power goes straight into your home’s circuit via the plug.

• It offsets your power use, meaning your appliances use solar energy first, reducing your power bill.

Installation:

• No electrician needed or expert installation required (depends on local laws).

• Mount the panels on a the side of your deck, railing, fence, garden stand, roof, etc.

• Plug it in and start producing your own power—super DIY-friendly.

Why people love it:

• Affordable entry into solar (under 1500 bucks, not 10000 and more).

• Lower energy bills instantly.

• No major expert installation required.

• Perfect for renters or apartment dwellers who can’t install a full rooftop system.

Real-life example:

Let’s say you’re running a fridge, some lights and your laptop during the day. A mini solar system can cover all or part of that load (depending on your appliances and mini solar system) and save you money every month. This daily load can be drastically increased by running your washing machine, dryer, crock pot etc. when the sun is out. Most appliances like your dishwasher have a "start-delay function, for when you are leaving the house before the sun is out. Should your appliances require more power than the solar system can produce, the excess gets taken from the grid. If you are a business, your mini solar system is powering your computers, servers and other machinery you are using during the day.