This is a draft version and not a finalized or comprehensive manual. While based on experience in Germany, the editors acknowledge they can’t cover every technical or legal nuance in other countries. Readers are urged to double-check all instructions, observe local laws, and always prioritize safety when working with electricity.
We welcome all comments, corrections, and suggestions for improvement!
This magazine is a translation draft of the English version of the “Plug-in-PV DIY Magazine,” published by Balkon.Solar e.V. (see the German version here)
It’s aimed at a growing international audience interested in upcycling used solar panels and building small “plug-in” photovoltaic (PV) systems for balconies, gardens, rooftops, and more.
The magazine provides a practical, step-by-step guide for DIY enthusiasts who want to give old solar panels a second life. It covers:
- Upcycling Solar Panels:
Advice on sourcing used panels, checking their performance, and safely reusing them, including running community “upcycling” workshops. - Installation Instructions:
Clear, illustrated instructions for attaching panels to balconies, fences, flat roofs, or using them as solar tables. It highlights both “classic” and creative DIY mounting methods, emphasizing safety and the importance of following local regulations. - Technical Basics:
Guidance on choosing compatible inverters, cables, and connectors, plus tips on electrical safety, measurement, and basic troubleshooting. It explains the difference between connecting panels in series or parallel and how to avoid damaging your inverter. - Tools and Equipment:
Recommendations for essential tools, such as crimping pliers, wire strippers, multimeters, and MC4 connectors, as well as smart energy meters and monitoring options. - Community Events:
How to organize or join solar upcycling workshops, with checklists for materials, logistics, budgeting, liability waivers, and participant registration. - Energy Optimization Tips:
Advice on using smart plugs, timers, and home automation to maximize self-consumption of solar electricity and reduce grid dependency.