So-called photovoltaic balcony systems can also be used in other locations. The manufacturer from Sand am Main now also offers plug-in mini photovoltaic roof systems for carports as well as flat and trapezoidal sheet metal roofs.
Installing a photovoltaic system yourself without much effort is possible with plug-in solar devices.People have mostly installed them on balconies so far, which is why the term “photovoltaic balcony system” has become widely used.
The manufacturer Ilzhöfer from Sand am Main now also offers these plug-in mini photovoltaic systems for unused flat roofs, carports, and trapezoidal sheet metal roofs, as it announced on Monday. It also supplies the two solar modules along with the appropriate mounting system.
The manufacturer believes that flat roofs are particularly well-suited for its solution. It offers aerodynamic mounting systems such as the “WAVE” system.
This design lets users install the mini photovoltaic systems without drilling or penetrating the roof. Ilzhöfer has ballasted and wind tunnel-tested the system, specifically designing it for easy self-assembly.
For trapezoidal sheet metal roofs, however, the manufacturer offers its screwable “HOOK” system. This allows the photovoltaic systems to be securely attached directly to the sheet metal. According to the manufacturer, the system is also adaptable to different roof geometries.
The price for the mini photovoltaic systems with two solar modules, an 800-watt Hoymiles inverter, the “HOOK” mounting system, and connecting cables is €395. The package price with four 450-watt bifacial glass-glass solar modules is €795. For carports, the solution with four solar modules costs €995.
Users can usually connect the systems to the power grid via a plug. It’s important to use a suitable electrical circuit—ideally, a dedicated socket with a backflow preventer or a Wieland system.
Those who don’t feel confident connecting the system themselves can hire an installation service. The costs vary, but often start at less than €400, according to Ilzhöfer. The manufacturer lists the costs for delivery and installation service as “from €385” on its website.
The mini photovoltaic systems are also cost-effective. Assuming a purchase price of €400 to €1,000 and an electricity price of 35 to 40 cents per kilowatt hour, the plug-in solar devices will pay for themselves in just two to three years.
This estimate assumes that the system produces 600 to 750 kilowatt hours of solar power annually, which homeowners can primarily use within their own households.
