The German Commission for Electrical Engineering (VDE) has announced the world's first product-level safety standard for plug-and-play solar systems, set for release in December 2025. Designated as DIN VDE V 0126-95 / VDE V 0126-95:2025-12, this standard, titled "Plug-In Solar Devices For Grid-Connected Operation - Part 95: Safety Requirements And Tests," marks a significant shift from experiential guidelines to defined norms for the rapidly growing balcony photovoltaic system market. This development ensures enhanced safety and reliability for consumers and manufacturers alike.
Unified Requirements from Components to System
This standard is the first to treat plug-in photovoltaic equipment as a complete product, establishing unified safety and performance criteria for all elements, including photovoltaic modules, inverters, plugs, and grid-connection methods. Aimed at product developers, manufacturers, and suppliers, it sets clear benchmarks for compliance, enabling testing agencies to verify safety.
VDE President Ansgar Hinz emphasized that compliant devices offer better user protection and boost market trust in plug-in solar technology. By addressing the entire system, it supports the seamless integration of balcony PV systems into domestic electrical systems, promoting wider adoption.
Key Changes: Increased Power Limits and New Interface Rules
Extensive discussions and over 1,250 feedback points focused on balancing safety—such as preventing electric shocks and overloading the domestic electrical system—with consumer convenience. Key agreements include raising maximum power limits and simplifying grid access. For plug-in solar devices, the inverter's maximum grid power is set at 800VA. If using standard household plugs (e.g., Schuko), the total PV modules power can reach 800Wp + 20% (960Wp), while specialized energy plugs allow up to 2000Wp. Additionally, new safety measures permit connection via grounded household sockets, using enhanced plugs with protective covers or disconnection switches, or electrical isolation in inverters, alongside traditional energy plugs.
Energy Storage to Be Addressed Separately
The current standard does not cover plug-and-play solar systems with energy battery storage. However, the DKE/K 373 committee has initiated plans to develop separate safety and performance requirements for battery energy storage systems. This ensures future standards will comprehensively address battery energy storage needs. To aid understanding, DKE will release interpretive documents and FAQs in mid-December. Stay tuned to YouthPOWER News for updates on these developments and how they impact balcony photovoltaic system innovations.
International Implications: A Potential Blueprint
This German standard has garnered attention from the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC/TC 82 "Solar Photovoltaic Energy Systems"), signaling potential global adoption. Alexander Nollau, Head of DKE's Energy Department, noted that aspects unrelated to grid connection could be incorporated into international frameworks, making DIN VDE V 0126-95 a foundational blueprint for future plug-in solar standards worldwide. This alignment could harmonize regulations, fostering innovation in solar photovoltaic energy systems and enhancing the reliability of plug-in PV devices across markets.
Post time: Nov-27-2025