Flanders Greenlights Plug-in Solar Panels Without Mandatory Registration

Starting April 17, residents of Flanders will be allowed to use plug-in solar panels and home batteries without needing to register them with the distribution network operator Fluvius. This change comes as Belgium officially permits the sale of these compact, user-friendly solar systems.

Already widespread in countries like Germany and the Netherlands, plug-in solar panels are an attractive option for individuals living in apartments or rental properties who can't install traditional rooftop systems. These devices are designed for simple, tool-free setup—typically plugged into a standard socket—and do not require professional installation or inspection.

To ensure stability in the regional power grid, households in Flanders will be limited to a maximum of two plug-in units. Fluvius will oversee adherence to this rule. If a household exceeds the allowed limit, they could face a minimum fine of €92.79.

Initially, authorities suggested that plug-in systems would have to be registered similarly to conventional solar panel installations. However, the Flemish Energy and Climate Agency has since clarified that no such registration will be needed in Flanders. This contrasts with Wallonia, where residents will still be required to report their systems.

Larger-scale solar setups must still be declared, as Fluvius relies on this data to manage electricity flows and avoid imbalances in the network.