Greece approves balcony solar panels up to 800 W under new auto‑consumption rules

The Greek Ministry of Environment and Energy has issued a new ministerial decision, open for public consultation until 20 July, that modernises the net‑billing framework for auto‑consumption. For the first time it authorises plug‑in photovoltaic systems of up to 800 W (installed capacity up to 900 W) to be placed on balconies, rooftops or building walls. The installations are limited to self‑consumption – they may not feed electricity back into the public grid – and can be paired with standalone battery storage.

The decree introduces four auto‑consumption models, including classic net‑billing, synchronized and virtual settlements, and expands collective self‑consumption for multiple households or building services such as lighting and elevators. Technical safeguards include direction sensors, smart meters and an electronic Auto‑Consumption Registry to streamline notifications to the grid operator (ΔΕΔΔΗΕ) via a digital portal. Existing installers must submit a renewed responsible‑installer declaration every two years.

Transition provisions protect the roughly 37,400 auto‑consumption systems already operating since 2020 (total capacity 1.07 GW). The new rules aim to simplify procedures – no separate connection contract or fees are required – and to broaden access for renters, apartment owners and small businesses, potentially lowering electricity bills for a large segment of Greek households.