800 Watt

Plug-in solar devices enable private individuals to actively participate in the energy transition with minimal effort. A solar module on the balcony, a connection to the power outlet – and your own refrigerator is powered by solar energy. It is one of the most democratic forms of sustainable energy generation. Despite their potential, balcony power plants have so far been designed purely from a technical perspective: the products currently available are inexpensive and functional, but hardly designed at all. They rarely blend harmoniously into urban, private, or architectural environments. Instead of appearing as culturally significant objects or consciously chosen consumer goods, they remain visually interchangeable – and thus unattractive to many potential users. 

In this project, the students developed balcony power plants that not only generate electricity but are also aesthetically appealing. New design concepts for PV modules have been created that are both functional and attractive – products that people are happy to show off and consciously choose. Whether as part of the façade, as a privacy screen, a design element, or an expression of attitude!