PostgreSQL + Python: An Explosive Combination with PL/Python

Why switch between Python and SQL when you can just write Python inside your database? PL/Python is the ultimate combo! 🚀🐍🛢️

Sometimes standard SQL just is not enough. What if you need more complex calculations with for example real-time data analysis, or may be access to Python libraries like NumPy and Pandas — right inside your database? That’s where PL/Python comes into “play”. With this extension, you can write Python functions directly in PostgreSQL, making your database far more powerful and flexible.

Why PL/Python?

• Leverage Python Libraries: NumPy, Pandas, and other libraries become available within PostgreSQL.
• Perform Advanced Calculations: Do math, stats, and data transformations without leaving your database.
• Keep It Simple: Write Python code you already know, instead of complicated SQL for every scenario.

Step 1: Enable the Extension

To get started, enable PL/Python in your PostgreSQL:

CREATE EXTENSION plpython3u;

That’s it! Now you can create functions in Python inside your database.

Step 2: Write Your First PL/Python Function

Let’s create a function that calculates the product of all numbers in a given array. This is a simple example, but it shows you the basics.