DKE Proposes Enhanced Standards for Balcony Solar Systems: Second Draft Unveiled

The DKE, part of the VDE Association of Electrical Engineering Electronics Information Technology e. V., has unveiled the second draft of the proposed product standard for balcony solar systems, also known as plug-in solar devices. This standard, touted as the first of its kind globally, marks a significant milestone in solar technology regulation.

Interested parties are invited to review and provide feedback on the new draft through the DKE draft standards portal, with comments accepted until July 3, 2024.

The recent passage of Solar Package 1 by the Bundestag and Council at the end of April laid the groundwork for simplifications in balcony solar systems. However, the implementation of these simplifications hinges on the adoption of the new product standard.

Key revisions outlined in the new draft include an increase in the maximum feed-in power from 600 to 800 volt amperes (VA). Additionally, the standards committee has proposed various protective measures to facilitate the connection of mini photovoltaic systems to conventional household sockets using a protective contact plug.

These protective measures entail ensuring basic protection and electrical safety through mechanical or electromechanical means. This can be achieved through mechanisms such as mechanical separation in the connector head or galvanic isolation in the inverter, provided the latter meets additional requirements.

Since the publication of the initial draft in autumn 2022, the DKE has received over 750 comments. In response to the feedback and ongoing discussions, the organization has presented the second draft to address unresolved issues, particularly regarding power limits and simplified grid connections.

Alexander Nollau, head of the energy department at DKE, underscores the significant public interest in the topic and emphasizes the importance of balancing user convenience with expert input on electrical safety.

The development of this standard reflects a collaborative effort to establish clear guidelines for the burgeoning field of balcony solar systems, paving the way for safer and more accessible solar energy solutions.