VDE tests and certifies balcony power plants

(Frankfurt am Main, 07.09.2023) The VDE tests and certifies balcony power plants with immediate effect. The corresponding test specification was developed in accordance with the current legal basis and the applicable regulations and standards. It covers all components of plug-in mini power generation systems. This includes one or two PV modules, the cables and plugs, the inverter, the grid connection and the mounting system. This means that it is now possible for the first time through the VDE to test and certify balcony power plants as a complete system and not just individual components.

The VDE is also responding to numerous reports in recent weeks on safety deficiencies in mini PV systems. VDE CEO Ansgar Hinz: "Balcony power plants are very popular with consumers because they can actively participate in the energy transition by using them. We as VDE want to support this. For this reason, it is important to us that the new devices are safe for the user. Who if not we can guarantee this? The VDE has stood for protection and safety in electrical engineering for more than 130 years."

Increase protection and safety for users

A test specification with which the overall product balcony power plants can be evaluated has the advantage that not only the individual components per se, but also the interactions of the individual components with each other are taken into account. This increases protection and safety for users.

The VDE is committed to facilitating the installation and operation of mini PV systems without compromising on safety. At the beginning of the year, for example, we made proposals for improvements in a position paper, some of which were taken up by the legislature. Our standards organization DKE is also working on the first product standard for the complete balcony power plant product. We expect a result before the end of this year.

Manufacturers or distributors interested in VDE certification and testing for plug-in mini power generation systems can find more information here.

About VDE Renewables 

VDE Renewables, a subsidiary of the VDE Group, offers quality assurance services for the global renewable energy sector. Based in Alzenau, Germany, the company’s services include quality testing and certification according to the highest safety, reliability, and performance standards, as well as independent engineering and technical due diligence.

VDE Renewables works closely with all structures of the VDE Group and its internationally renowned network, which include the leading research and development bodies such as the Fraunhofer Institutes and insurance firms such as Allianz and Munich Re. Together with its partners, VDE Renewables supports its customers with their specific requirements, such as gaining access to new markets, differentiating themselves from their competitors or enabling them to receive more attractive insurance or financing conditions. 

For more information, visit www.vde.com/renewables

About VDE

VDE, one of the largest technology organizations in Europe, has been regarded as a synonym for innovation and technological progress for more than 130 years. VDE is the only organization in the world that combines science, standardization, testing, certification, and application consulting under one umbrella. The VDE mark has been synonymous with the highest safety standards and consumer protection for more than 100 years. 

Our passion is the advancement of technology, the next generation of engineers and technologists, and lifelong learning and career development “on the job”. Within the VDE network more than 2,000 employees at over 60 locations worldwide, more than 100,000 honorary experts, and around 1,500 companies are dedicated to ensuring a future worth living: networked, digital, electrical.  
Shaping the e-dialistic future. 

The VDE (VDE Association for Electrical, Electronic & Information Technologies) is headquartered in Frankfurt am Main. For more information, visit www.vde.com