September 14, 2024

Plug-in Solar Panels Now Allowed in Belgium

Belgium is set to democratize solar energy access, officially legalizing the connection of plug-and-play solar panels and small batteries to the national electricity grid starting April 17, 2025. This landmark decision marks a significant shift in the country’s energy policy, empowering homeowners and renters alike to participate directly in the green transition.

Plug-in Solar Panels Now Allowed in Belgium: New Regulations

The change is driven by a crucial amendment to the C10/11 technical prescription, a document managed by Synergrid, the federation of Belgium’s electricity and gas network operators. Following a public consultation period earlier this year, the revised rules were submitted in July to the country’s regional energy regulators—VREG in Flanders, CWaPE in Wallonia, and Brugel in Brussels—for final approval. The updated framework is expected to be published by November 2024.

To ensure grid stability and user safety, all plug-in devices must undergo a new certification process, known as C10/26. Synergrid will begin accepting applications from manufacturers on October 17, 2024, with the first list of approved products scheduled for publication on January 17, 2025. This gives consumers and suppliers a clear three-month window before the systems are officially permitted for use.

Safety, Certification, and Market Readiness

The C10/26 certification will enforce strict safety standards. Certified equipment must include features like automatic disconnection from the grid during a power outage and comply with existing EU CE standards and Belgium’s General Regulations on Electrical Installations (GREI). Synergrid has emphasized that “Manufacturers, importers, and distributors must ensure their devices are safe and come with clear operating instructions.”

Ready to make big Profits?

The solar Industry is Booming

WE HELP NEWCOMERS to the solar industry start their own solar module production line. Customers can make BIG PROFITS by selling modules and finding investors, without wasting money and time on things they don't need!

find your perfect solution

This regulatory clarity has already spurred market activity. Companies like Belga Solar have announced the launch of compliant 800W plug-and-play solar kits, which will be available to consumers on the day the new law takes effect. This move is particularly beneficial for residents in apartments or rented accommodations, who can now install solar systems on balconies or in gardens without complex installations.

A European Trend

Belgium’s policy update aligns with a broader European movement towards accessible, small-scale solar generation. The EU’s Electricity Market Directive encourages the adoption of mini-PV systems under 800W, and by 2025, these devices will be legal in 25 of the 27 member states. This initiative is expected to accelerate solar adoption across the continent, as highlighted in a recent report by SolarPower Europe.

The new regulations are poised to build on Belgium’s existing solar achievements. The nation surpassed 10 GW of installed solar capacity by the end of 2023, and the introduction of user-friendly, plug-in systems is expected to significantly boost residential solar uptake and support the country’s climate and energy objectives.

Sources

Disclaimer: The information published here is aggregated from publicly available sources. PVknowhow.com does not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of the content. If you identify any incorrect or misleading information, please contact us so we can review and, if necessary, correct it.

Plug-in Solar Panels Now Allowed in Belgium