The Flemish energy watchdog VREG has given the green light for the use of plug-in solar panels in Flanders. The portable panels generate electricity as soon as they are plugged into the socket.
While not yet permitted in Belgium, balcony solar panels or plug-in panels are on the rise in neighboring countries. These are devices that can be purchased at a DIY store or supermarket. They can be attached to, for example, a balcony railing. The portable solar panels can be plugged into a wall socket, just like a coffee machine or a television. This allows people with apartments that lack roof access to also enjoy the benefits of self-generated solar energy.
Not only solar panels, but also other plug-in devices such as home batteries or mobile battery containers will soon be allowed to be plugged into the socket.
The Flemish energy watchdog VREG has now given its approval, meaning that their use will also be permitted in Flanders. The requirement to connect solar panels or home batteries with a fixed connection directly to the electrical installation in a home will be lifted.
Reporting solar panels remains mandatory
In addition to VREG, the regulators in Brussels (Brugel) and Wallonia (CWaPE) also announced their approval of the change on Thursday. The more flexible rules are therefore expected to come into effect across Belgium on April 17, 2025.
The fact that mobile solar panels can be installed by a private individual in no time does not mean that owners are exempt from reporting them to the Flemish grid operator Fluvius. Before they can enter the Belgian market, plug-in devices must first be approved by the FPS Economy to ensure they meet technical requirements. People who install mobile solar panels remain responsible for the safety of their internal installation. There can be risks if multiple solar panels are connected to one socket or one power circuit simultaneously.