BSS4VN project, supported by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) under the develoPPP programme, implemented by GIZ and a consortium of German and Vietnamese private partners – pilots small “plug-and-play” balcony solar systems to empower urban households to produce their own renewable electricity.

This initiative is inspired by Germany’s successful experience – where over one million balcony solar systems have been registered, enabling households and small businesses to produce clean energy right from their balconies. Building on this model, BSS4VN is piloting 100 balcony solar systems mainly in Ho Chi Minh City.

With the capacity of 600Wp, each “plug-and-play” unit can supply around 17% of a household’s average electricity demand, helping reduce both energy costs and emissions. With an estimated payback period of six years or less, the project demonstrates how proven innovation can be locally adapted to make sustainable living accessible – contributing to Viet Nam’s just energy transition.

Key Activities:

• Supply, install and monitor up to 100 Balcony Solar Systems (BSS) in Ho Chi Minh City.
• Develop a policy recommendation package for MOIT and EVN with insights gained from project implementation, combined with German expertise.
• Study and introduce business models for BSS.
• Organize dissemination workshops to divulge and promote project results and impacts.