According to an energy expert, Belgium banned “parallel grids”. WTF is a parallel grid?: Any power source that does not feed the grid is defined as a “parallel grid”. So you cannot install solar panels or a generator that does not connect to the grid. You cannot unplug from the grid and install batteries.
He said that policy was in force 5 years ago and did not know if that policy is still in place today.
I find it disgusting that such a policy existed for even 1 day. It means you cannot live independant from the grid. You are forced to patronise the energy supplier. At the same time, the injection rate they pay you for feeding the grid is ~⅒ the rate you pay for consumption.
What about vacation homes? There are rural zones in Belgium where homes are designated as unsuitable for living, which you cannot legally register as your domicile. They are intended as 2nd homes for recreation. Some of such homes may not have water, sewer, and power. Of course some offgrid power would be quite useful.
Can anyone cite the law on this, if it’s still in effect?
Is it just Belgium that does this?
That's madness! My bike has a hub dynamo - if I ride it in Belgium will I be deported?