Leeb: Efficient photovoltaic solutions for balconies

A balcony offers additional living space - and can generate electricity at the same time. At Heim+Handwerk, we took a look at Leeb Balconies to see how photovoltaics can be integrated directly into the balcony and what advantages this solution offers over traditional balcony PV systems.

Photovoltaics as a direct component of the balcony

Balconies enlarge the living space and open up new perspectives. Leeb takes care of the complete balcony construction - from consultation and planning to installation. At the Heim+Handwerk trade fair, an innovation will be presented in which the solar module is not retrofitted, but is an integral part of the balcony solution. The photovoltaic module is fully integrated into the construction. It does not hang in front of an existing railing, but replaces part of the balcony surface. The handrail and stable background continue to act as fall protection.

• PV module fully integrated into the balcony
• No subsequent installation on the railing
• Structural fall protection still fulfilled

Power generation as an additional benefit

Photovoltaic modules are usually mounted at an angle on roofs. Mounted vertically on balconies, they produce less yield than optimally aligned roof systems, but still provide a useful additional benefit. At the trade fair, it is explained that vertical mounting achieves around half the yield of a very well aligned roof-mounted PV system. Especially in combination with existing roof systems, balcony PV can be a useful addition. If an inverter is already available, the electricity generated can be more easily integrated into the existing system.

• Vertical PV modules as a supplement to the roof system
• Additional power generation on previously unused space
• Advantageous with existing PV infrastructure

Invest once, benefit in the long term

The photovoltaic balcony is intended as a long-term investment. Instead of installing a separate railing and a PV solution later, both are implemented in one step. The advantage lies in the dual function: balcony and power generation are combined. A price range of around 1,300 to 1,500 euros per meter is quoted at Heim und Handwerk. This amount already includes installation and VAT.

• Combination of balcony and energy generation
• Clearly calculable price range
• No separate retrofitting necessary

Production and assembly from Carinthia

Leeb manufactures balconies and balcony railings to fit the respective building perfectly. Development, production, assembly and coating take place in Carinthia. The solar modules themselves are supplied and integrated into the overall system. This structure means that the manufacturer retains control over design and quality. Planning and assembly are coordinated, which is particularly important for load-bearing components such as balconies.

• Development and production in Carinthia
• Precise adaptation to the building
• Coordinated assembly by the manufacturer

Photovoltaic balcony as part of future-oriented architecture

At Heim+Handwerk, it is clear that balconies are no longer just design or functional elements. They are increasingly being seen as part of a holistic energy concept. The integrated photovoltaic balcony is an example of this development.

• Multiple use of building components
• Energy generation in the immediate living environment
• Architecturally integrated solutions