The number of small solar power installations in Lithuania has nearly doubled over the past year. While standard rooftop systems continue to dominate consumer interest, retailers are encouraging homeowners to consider balcony-mounted panels, which can be installed for just a few hundred euros and, with government subsidies, may pay for themselves within one to two years.
Vilnius and Kaunas lead the way
According to the Energy Distribution Operator (ESO), as of July 15, there were 661 small solar units with a capacity of less than 0.8 kilowatts (kW) across Lithuania. Vilnius and Kaunas Counties lead with 208 and 153 units, respectively. Other counties reported fewer than 100.
The ESO notes that these small units are most cost-effective for households that consume up to 70 kilowatt-hours (kWh) per month and use natural gas for cooking. It is estimated that there could be around 320,000 such households in Lithuania.
To install such a unit, residents must notify ESO, who will then install a smart electricity meter if one has not already been fitted.
83 applications submitted in 2025
The Environmental Project Management Agency (APVA), which distributes state subsidies, said it had received 83 applications for support to install solar units not exceeding 0.8 kW this year.
In total, this year’s call for applications to install solar power systems has attracted around 20,000 submissions from residents, with the total amount of requested subsidies exceeding €45 million. The combined capacity of the solar installations proposed in these applications is expected to reach approximately 177 MW.
In a comment to LRT.lt, the Energy Ministry said that while the 0.8 kW segment is still relatively new, it is considered promising in the long term.
“Solar units of this size do not require formal grid connection permits. Once installed, it is sufficient to inform the network operator. Individuals can apply for the same subsidies available to other prosumers,” the ministry said.
“As the expansion of renewable energy sources accelerates, limited grid capacity will make small-scale systems increasingly popular in future, particularly when combined with energy storage solutions. Moreover, systems of this capacity are attractive to flat owners, as they can be installed on balconies,” ministry representatives noted.
The ministry also encourages residents to install systems that meet their household consumption needs.
“Currently, financial support is available for solar systems up to 10 kW. All residents, including those installing up to 0.8 kW systems, are eligible. The subsidy is set at €255.07 per installed kilowatt,” they explained.
Prices start at €359
Edgaras Reutas, Marketing Manager at Solet, said that the starting price for their basic solar kit is €359.
“A €204 subsidy is available (if the resident meets APVA criteria), meaning the out-of-pocket investment is just €155. Without the subsidy, the system pays for itself in 2–4 years; with it, in just 1–2 years. Moreover, buyers become prosumers, opening up access to other subsidies, such as energy storage,” he said.
As an example, Reutas explained that a 0.8 kW system can reach up to 700–800 watts during spring, summer, and early autumn.
“The more electricity is used directly by the household, the faster the system pays off. If energy isn’t used immediately, it can be fed into the grid and retrieved later for a fee set by the national energy regulator – currently over three times lower than the retail price.”
“This solution covers basic electricity needs, such as a fridge, television, and lighting,” he added.
According to Reutas, Solet offers the product as a DIY (do it yourself) kit.
“We’ve prepared detailed guides for installation, connection, and applying for subsidies. We don’t install these in blocks of flats due to the bureaucratic requirements – it’s considered an alteration of the building’s facade, which usually requires the consent of all co-owners and often a permit from the local municipality.”
He added that while their best-selling products in this segment are not balcony units, but rooftop or façade-mounted mini solar systems, interest has been growing, especially among households that don't consume much energy.
“Balcony units are not suitable for every building. In older blocks, especially, it’s vital to consult a structural engineer to confirm that the balcony can handle the extra weight. If not, consider a mobile solar unit with lightweight, flexible panels secured by straps – they can attach to nearly any surface, even curved ones.”
To date, Solet has sold around 200 such systems in Lithuania.
“Interest really took off this year. Interestingly, many customers buy them as gifts for their parents to help reduce household bills,” he said.
Don't forget the socket
Karolis Bužinskas, director of Greenup (UAB Elektra Man), another company selling small solar power systems, advised not to forget that these require an electrical socket on the balcony.
“Otherwise, you’ll need to drill a hole and lead the cable indoors to a socket,” he pointed out.
He noted that while rooftop systems are far more common in Lithuania, balcony panels are extremely popular in Germany.
“They naturally generate more electricity. People tend to see them as more cost-effective, although the payback period is very similar.”
Greenup has been selling balcony units for about a year and a half and has installed more than 20 systems.
“They’re designed for simplicity. You hang it on the balcony, fasten the bolts, plug in the cable – and it works,” Bužinskas said.
He added that the systems cost up to €500 and can generate about €200 worth of electricity annually. With a €200 subsidy, payback could happen within a year.
“Just this year, we’ve sold ten balcony systems – mostly in Vilnius,” he noted.
Neighbour Approval Required
Gabrielius Grubinskas, a representative of Vilnius City Municipality, explained that the installation of solar panels is regulated in the same way as air conditioners.
“Installing panels on a building’s facade is generally classified as a minor renovation. Under national regulations, a building permit is required if the structure is located in a protected area, heritage zone, or if the installation significantly alters the building’s appearance.”
“And if the building has multiple owners – as in blocks of flats – written consent from a majority (half plus one) is required, since the facade is a shared structure,” he said.
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