Germany Grants Renters the Right to Install Solar Systems on Balconies

Germany Grants Renters the Right to Install Solar Systems on Balconies

Freiburg, October 17, 2024 — In a significant move towards sustainable living, renters and condominium owners across Germany now have the legal right to install solar panels on their balconies. The new regulation changes the Rental Contrac Law (BGB § 554 / english not changed as of 17.10.24) and the law governing Condominums (§ 20 WEG)- , which officially takes effect today, empowers tenants to contribute to green energy solutions, making it easier for households to reduce their carbon footprint and lower electricity costs.

The law, a result of long-standing advocacy by environmental groups such as Balkonsolar e.V. and Youtubers such as AkkuDoktor, aims to democratize access to renewable energy for renters, who previously faced legal and technical barriers in adopting solar solutions. By installing compact solar systems, often referred to as „balcony solar systems,“ or Plug-In-PV renters and condominium owners can now generate up to 25% of their electricity needs, feeding excess power back into the grid or store it in a small battery system for later use.

The plug-and-play nature of balcony solar systems ensures they are easy to install, even for those without technical expertise.

Detailed installation guides, FAQs, and assistance can be found on the Balkonsolar e.V. website to help residents navigate the process.

How Renters Can Install Balcony Solar Systems:

  1. Notify the Landlord: Renters must send a formal email or written notification to their landlord, informing them of their intent to install a balcony solar system. The request should include basic details, such as the type of system to be installed, its size, and assurances that it complies with legal safety standards.
  2. Landlord’s Obligation to Approve: Once the request is submitted, the landlord is obligated to approve the installation unless they can present valid, documented reasons for refusal.
  3. Proof of Objection: If the landlord does not approve the installation, they must provide written proof explaining why it is not feasible. The landlord cannot simply deny the request without presenting clear evidence.

In addition to renters‘ rights to install solar systems on their balconies, landlords can require certain conditions but must stay within legal bounds.

For example, they may request proof that the installation complies with safety and technical standards – sending documents that are ususally made available by the vendors should suffice for that. However, they cannot demand unnecessary tests like full electrical inspections of the apartment or entire house at the tenant’s expense. Landlords also cannot mandate that installations be done by a professional, as balcony solar systems are designed for self-installation.

Requests like excessive documentation or ongoing maintenance by professionals aren’t legally justified. Landlords must bear the cost of any additional requirements they request, such as structural assessments.

condominium residents

For condominium residents looking to install a solar system on their balconies, the process generally involves notifying the homeowner association (HOA) in writing and requesting a vote. The HOA has to vote in favor except if they can provide legitimate concerns why such a system should be impossible to use. If the HOA refuses, they must provide documented evidence. Residents are responsible for complying with any building guidelines but cannot be required to meet excessive or unnecessary demands.

Further information in German

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