So called 'Balcony Solar' is easy to set up and can generate significant power(Image: Getty)
Lidl has introduced an affordable solar battery in Germany, as increasing numbers of people across Europe embrace 'DIY plug-in solar' to reduce their energy bills amid rocketing costs.
The budget supermarket chain is selling the batteries, which enable households to store energy generated during daylight hours from inexpensive, portable 'plug-in' solar panels, starting from €299. A higher-capacity battery is also available, complete with an app for remote management, from €399.
These affordable and portable plug-in systems, which can be installed within minutes without requiring expensive or specialist fitting, are becoming increasingly popular across Europe as homeowners seek to slash their spiralling energy bills. They're known as 'DIY' or 'Balcony Solar', though a balcony isn't essential – they can be mounted on house walls, placed on extension roofs or positioned anywhere with adequate sunlight.
However, while Lidl could introduce these systems to Ireland within months, there's a significant obstacle. Under existing regulations, anyone wishing to install solar panels on their property must complete an N6 form through a registered installer and obtain ESB approval for the system.
Some homeowners might be inclined to simply proceed with 'balcony' or 'plug-in' solar installation and address any bureaucratic requirements later should they arise. There may be some ambiguity, as the N6 forms specifically apply to microgeneration systems (small-scale domestic solar or wind installations) that are connected to the grid.
The Irish Government has been urged to consider easing legislation to permit next-generation microgeneration systems to be straightforwardly fitted in residential properties on a DIY basis. This would require an overhaul of grid codes and wiring regulations to ensure plug-in solar panels and connected batteries can be used safely, reports Cork Beo.
The battery is designed to work with most plug-in solar panels, which are already widely used across much of Europe. According to PV Magazine, Lidl's latest solar product is a 2.24kWh battery, with a 1,000W input and 800W output, and is compatible with the majority of plug-in solar panel systems.
The battery unit measures 31cm × 17cm × 350cm and tips the scales at approximately 19.8kgs. On the pricing front, the Lidl battery retails at €299, while an app-controlled version is also available from Lidl for €399 (roughly £345). Purchasers of the battery will need to source the plug-in solar panels and microinverter separately.
That said, for a relatively modest upfront outlay of under €1,000, homeowners could begin generating a meaningful amount of domestic electricity to help bring down their energy bills.
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