This is an article from Het Laatste Nieuws; we can't wait for plug-in solar panels to be approved!
Earlier this summer, it emerged that several stores were selling so-called 'plug-and-play' solar panels that are not permitted for use in Belgium. These can simply be plugged into an outlet without the need for an electrician. However, this will change next year as the regulations are being adjusted. Nevertheless, questions still remain regarding safety.
'Plug-and-play' solar panels are smaller models that can be placed, for example, on a terrace to collect solar energy. While this is convenient in theory, it is legally prohibited in practice. Since the beginning of this year, Synergrid, the umbrella organization of Belgian electricity and gas grid operators including Fluvius, has been working on adapting the regulations. The organization announced this week in a press release.
These are expected to be approved by the three regional regulators, including VREG, by November, if everything goes according to plan. Six months later, in May of next year, consumers would then be allowed to plug in the solar panels. The change would also officially permit mobile home batteries and even mobile battery containers, such as those known from festivals.
Synergrid points out that mobile solar panels must be registered with the competent network operator before they are put into use; in Flanders, this is Fluvius. Furthermore, the electrical installation must comply with the General Regulations on Electrical Installations (AREI) to ensure safety. Manufacturers must therefore clearly inform buyers that it is risky to connect multiple 'plug-and-play' solar panels to the same outlet.