Balcony solar panels introduced in Greece to cut electricity bills

Greece is making it easier for households to generate their own electricity with the introduction of "balcony photovoltaic" systems. These small, up to 800-watt systems can be installed on balconies, offering a way to reduce electricity costs without requiring large rooftop installations.

While household self-consumption of energy in Greece remains low compared to other European markets, this new framework aims to provide more options for citizens looking to lower their electricity bills and utilize solar energy. These small systems promise savings, particularly on regular daily consumption, and come with simplified installation and connection procedures.

According to estimates, installing these low-power photovoltaic systems can lead to savings of 20% to 30% on a typical annual electricity bill. However, strict safety measures are in place to ensure that the generated energy is not fed back into the grid. The systems are defined as micro-solar systems with a plug-in connection, capable of injecting up to 800 watts and potentially including storage, exclusively for self-consumption without feeding into the grid.

Consumers interested in installing such a system must declare the supply details to their provider or installer when purchasing. The provider or installer is then responsible for informing the Network Operator up to five days before installation via a special digital portal. The applicant will use their Taxisnet credentials to access this portal and complete the necessary information. Installation requires submitting a new installer's declaration, renewable every two years, and installing a direction sensor to guarantee no energy is injected into the grid.