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If balcony solar isn’t legal in your state, it likely will be in the near future. As of the writing of this post, three states have passed legislation, and around twenty more are in various stages of the process.
If you’re unfamiliar with balcony solar, check out our breakdown of what balcony solar is, how it works, and who can use it.
Before You Buy—Know Your Stuff
As mentioned, balcony (or plug-in) solar is gradually being legalized on a state level, so different states may have different rules. Utah, the first to make plug-and-play solar accessible without permitting, put a max 1200w limit on it, so it’s likely that other states will follow suit.
The reason behind the max limit is to prevent users from back feeding energy into the grid, and since most homes use well over 1200w, it’s highly unlikely that will happen.
Here’s a really good resource for tracking your state’s laws on the subject.
The Components of a Balcony Solar Kit
Part of the attraction of these small scale setups is their simplicity. With only a few panels, some cable, and a microinverter, you can start saving money on your electric bill right away.
Balcony Solar Microinverter
Because the technology is so new, there aren’t a lot of manufacturers producing microinverters designed for balcony solar applications. We’re excited to offer APSystems EZ1 microinverter both individually and in our kits.
One microinverter connects to two solar modules with a maximum output of 800w. You can connect a second microinverter for additional output, and the microinverter’s software can be derated to prevent your system from outputting more than your state allows. This versatile device is perfect for partial offset of home energy usage, powering patio or garden setups, and much more.
Watch a video overview of the microinverter and its features or visit the product page for all the specs.
Balcony Solar Panels
When you purchase from a trusted distributor, a high-quality, high-efficiency solar panel will produce sun power for you for many, many years. We recommend you always look for a good warranty and, if possible, an American-manufactured product.
In our kits, we use Jinko Solar 400w panels because they’re an affordable option of excellent quality, with a 25-year linear power warranty. However, there are many great choices out there. For a plug-and-play setup, look for panels that:
- Offer the best possible efficiency-to-size ratio—so monocrystalline panels over polycrystalline.
- Provide optimal power output in partially shaded conditions
- Are built for durability to withstand wind and snow
- Have connections compatible with your microinverter
- Don’t exceed the weight limits of your mounting system
- Come with a robust warranty
Balcony Solar Cables
In a balcony solar setup, you need two cables—one on the DC side connecting your panels to the microinverter, and one on the AC side connecting the microinverter to your home’s power outlet. It’s pretty simple, and the easiest choice is to use the cables recommended by your microinverter’s manufacturer. At the time of writing this, as mentioned, there aren’t a lot of options on the market, so in our kits, we use APSystems bus cable and power cord.
Some tips on choosing a cable:
- Make sure the connections are compatible with your panels and microinverter
- For the DC cable, make the run as short as possible, since extra length results in reduced power.
- Use cable rated for outdoor use
- Make sure the AC cable is rated for the output wattage of your microinverter
- Always check your state and local regulations
Mounting Options
Small, plug-and-play systems are flexible, so you can get creative about where and how you mount it. Whether its on the roof of an RV, out in the garden, or near your patio, the benefit is that you don’t need a complex array setup to get started with solar.
Balcony Solar Kits
If you want to take the work out of piecing together a system, NAZ Solar Electric Balcony Solar Kits are a great option. We’ve curated ground mount and roof mount kits in both 800w and 1600w configurations, all using the APSystems EZ-1 Microinverter.
These are fast, affordable ways to Plug Into Solar, especially for anyone with limited space or just starting out in solar. Each kit includes:
Jinko Solar 400w panels
APSystems EZ-1 Microinverter
Cables
Mounting System
Get a Free System Design Consultation
At Naz Solar Electric, our application engineers are here to provide system design for your complete residential or commercial project. Combined with exceptional, cutting-edge products from our manufacturing partners, and our network of top-tier solar installers, we’re your one-stop shop for getting your project designed, supplied, and executed.
Reach out with any questions or to talk to an application engineer.
