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PV systems for façades, balconies and fences are available in various designs. 
For installation on facades, both the classic crystalline silicon solar cells are used, as well as so-called thin-film modules, which - with somewhat lower efficiency - are lighter and more flexible. They are available in different sizes and shapes so that they can be visually adapted to the respective façade: For example, to natural stone, plaster or ceramics. 
Transparent solar modules integrated into glass - so-called glass-glass modules - also offer another possibility to use solar energy on façades. This also makes it possible to meet the aesthetic requirements of the building. 
PV systems are also available for balconies, fences and window reveals/boards. Even plant troughs and screens are now available with solar surfaces for power generation.

The integration of PV systems on vertical surfaces offers several advantages.

Effective use of vertical surfaces: Façade, balcony and fence PV allow the use of unused vertical surfaces for electricity generation, which is particularly attractive in urban areas with limited space.
Architectural integration: These PV systems can now be designed to be aesthetically pleasing and integrate seamlessly into the existing architecture of balconies and fences.
Decentralised energy generation: Balcony PV and fence PV enable decentralised power generation, reducing the need for long transmission lines and energy losses.
Potential for self-consumption: The electricity generated can be used directly on site to increase self-consumption and reduce dependence on the public grid.
However, there are also challenges. The orientation of PV modules on façades is often not optimal, which can lead to somewhat lower yields. In addition, shading effects from surrounding buildings or trees can affect the performance of the systems. It is important to consider these factors during planning and installation to maximise efficiency.

The efficiency of vertically installed PV systems varies depending on the type of module used, the orientation of the system, the location and the solar radiation. In general, vertically installed PV systems have a lower efficiency compared to conventional, horizontally installed systems. According to a study by Biryukova et al. from 2020, which deals with balcony PV systems, the yield of such systems is typically between 5% and 15%. This lower efficiency results from the unfavourable angle of incidence of the sun's rays on the vertical modules and the reduced light absorption. (Efficiencies may vary depending on technological advances and developments in the PV industry).

However, there are studies that show that vertical PV installations can indeed generate significant amounts of electricity despite their suboptimal orientation. A study from 2020, for example, found that PV installations on façades in urban environments can cover about 25-40% of a building's electricity demand.
Detailed site analysis and planning are therefore important to determine the potential and maximise efficiency.

The electricity generated from PV systems on vertical surfaces can be used in various ways.

• Direct use on site, e.g. by operating electrical appliances or charging electric vehicles.
• Storing surplus electricity in battery storage for later own use.
• Feeding surplus electricity into the public grid. In some counties, system operators receive feed-in tariffs or other remuneration models for this.

It should be noted that the exact design, dimensioning and connection regulations of balcony PV and fence PV systems can vary depending on local rules and regulations. It is important to find out about the applicable regulations and required permits or consult an expert before installation.

To use the generated electricity from a balcony PV system yourself, the following steps are usually required:

• Convert direct current (DC) into alternating current (AC): The PV modules generate direct current, which must be converted into alternating current for domestic use. For this purpose, an inverter is used to convert the generated direct current into the alternating current that is customary for household use. The inverter is usually installed near the PV system.
• The converted alternating current can be used directly for self-consumption in the household. This means that the generated electricity supplies the connected appliances, lighting or other electrical consumers in the house. In this way, the need for electricity from the public grid is reduced.
• Monitoring and measurement: It is important to monitor the electricity generated and used in order to track the performance of the PV system and optimise self-consumption. This can be done through a monitoring system that records the flow of electricity and the performance of the PV system. In addition, calibrated electricity meters can be used to accurately measure the electricity generated and consumed.

In Germany, the Renewable Energy Sources Act (EEG) regulates the expansion of renewable energies and provides incentives for the integration of PV systems into building facades. According to the EEG, PV systems on façades can be treated as so-called "roof systems" and thus benefit from the same remuneration rates and feed-in tariffs as conventional roof systems.
To facilitate the installation of PV systems on vertical surfaces, approval procedures have been simplified in this country. In some cases, no elaborate building permits are required: this applies, for example, to balcony power plants with up to 600 W feed-in power.
Balcony power plants were also exempted from VAT in 2023 and are therefore now cheaper to buy.

PV systems on façades, balconies and fences are a promising way to use solar energy in urban areas. Despite lower efficiency, they offer an attractive alternative to conventional roof installations. Facades of larger (office) buildings in particular therefore promise a good energy yield. With current technology developments and decreasing costs, the chances for efficiency and profitability of these installations are further improved. PV systems on vertical surfaces can thus make an important contribution to reducing CO2 emissions and contribute to a more sustainable energy future.