Hi everyone! I'm trying to set up a low-key solar system for my balcony with a target range of 500 to 1000 watts. I'm really leaning towards connecting it to the grid rather than relying on just batteries, but I've run into a lot of conflicting information regarding the legality of this in the U.S. It seems like the power companies mainly have guidelines for rooftop systems. I could use some help figuring out how to estimate energy generation and whether it's worth the investment. Also, any tips on how to talk to my electrical utility to find out the legal requirements and codes would be super helpful! Since I'm totally new to this, should I just get quotes from companies instead of trying to tackle this myself? A lot of the marketing I see is for much larger systems. Thanks a lot!
3 Answers
You might want to check recent discussions on the legality of balcony solar setups like [this one](https://www.reddit.com/r/SolarDIY/comments/1kclip2/balcony_solar_now_legalpossible/) or the Clean Power Hour podcast for further insights. Also, advocating for easier regulations by reaching out to your local congressman could help make balcony solar more accessible in the future. There are interests that prefer to keep it limited, so your voice can make a difference.
For 500 to 2kW, you can grab a panel from local suppliers along with a battery and inverter. Just connect them and plug your devices into the box rather than the grid, which keeps things simple. It’s fairly affordable, but your savings depend on your power rates and usage. If you’re also using the battery for emergencies, it’s a solid investment. However, just keep in mind local regulations concerning how to safely mount the panels on your balcony.
If you're in the U.S., you'll typically need to navigate some red tape before hooking any solar system to the grid, regardless of size. With setups like 500W to 2000W, it often doesn't feel worth the hassle because the effort is similar to larger systems. You could opt for a battery system paired with panels that lets you draw power from the grid and use solar power when available, but these setups aren't usually cost-effective. They’re more of a backup plan than a money-saver, and you’ll still encounter some regulations about mounting panels outdoors, even on a balcony.