A balcony may work only where the product instructions, structure and property permissions support that exact arrangement. Do not treat European balcony imagery as evidence that a railing-mounted system is suitable in Britain.
Start with the view of the sky
Check where direct sun reaches the proposed panel position throughout the day. An overhead balcony, solid parapet, neighbouring building or tree can shade panels even when the space feels bright.
South-facing panels often receive strong midday sunshine. East or west can match morning or afternoon demand. Consider when the home uses electricity, not just the compass direction.
Vertical panels behave differently
A panel hanging upright will not have the same annual generation as a tilted panel on an open roof. Use an estimate for the actual angle, direction and shading.
Our calculator compares upright and tilted arrangements using visible assumptions. It is an initial estimate, not a prediction for your address.
Railing and building checks
- Mounting designed for your railing and panel.
- The manufacturer’s installation height and exposure limits.
- Required landlord, freeholder or building management agreement.
- Clear emergency access and escape routes.
When it may not be worth it
Deep shade, little useful sun or expensive structural work can make a modest kit poor value. A long payback may also be unattractive if you expect to move.
Measure the space and price the complete mounting and connection arrangement. A cheaper panel is not a cheaper system if costly work is needed to fit it.
Prepared from the linked sources. This is guidance, not a product certification or an assessment of your home. Tell us about a correction.