The Austrian photovoltaic heating company my-PV has simulated the use of its new DC Power Manager SOL•THOR with 2 to 3 photovoltaic modules. The result? Thanks to my-PV’s control unit, a two-person household can cover between 34 and 50 percent of its hot water requirements per year with just three solar modules. my-PV will soon receive the German Design Award 2025 for this self-sufficient solution.

In Germany and Austria, the output of balcony power plants, which do not have to be registered or approved, is limited to 800 watts. However, this output can already be achieved with two solar modules. If you had more space available, you could previously install additional balcony power plant modules with micro inverters and Schuko plugs. However, they then had to go through complex approval procedures for a grid-connected system. With the new SOL•THOR control unit, which my-PV will launch on the market in the first quarter of 2025, there is no need for approval – because it is a stand-alone solution.

Using less expensive modules

Costs can also be reduced because my-PV’s design uses less expensive standard modules with MC4 connectors instead of balcony power plant modules with micro inverters. The direct current is converted into hot water via the new DC Power Manager. The number of modules can vary individually from 1 to 10. “We are closing the gap between balcony power plants with two modules and grid-connected 5 kWp systems,” explains my-PV Managing Director Dr. Gerhard Rimpler.

The Austrian manufacturer’s simulations have shown that just two standard modules facing south cover 34% of the hot water requirements of two people, which corresponds to an energy savings of almost 700 kWh. At an average electricity price of 35 ct/kWh, my-PV’s system can save a household €245 annually. “With three modules, you can even achieve 50 percent coverage,” adds Rimpler.

Excellent design

The self-sufficient design also impressed the jury of the German Design Awards. On February 7, 2025, my-PV will be honoured with the prestigious award in the “Excellent Product Design” category for the second time. “The innovative design – using solar power directly to generate heat – represents a significant step towards a self-sufficient energy supply. The SOL•THOR is impressive since it can convert direct current into heat efficiently, without loss, and without the need for a grid connection,” said the jury, explaining the reasons for the award. The jury consists of 46 design experts from business, education, science and the design industry.