Solar Spike Act Disclosed by Consumer Centre
In Germany, the renewable energy sector continues to grow, with the Renewable Energy Act (EEG) being in existence for over 20 years. One of the key contributors to this growth is the increasing number of photovoltaic (PV) systems installed, many of which are accompanied by battery storage systems, further increasing the share of self-consumed electricity.
To operate a PV system, individuals must first notify the responsible distribution network operator (DNO) of the necessary network connection. Those who wish to do so can find the DNO at VNBdigital.de, where the network connection can be applied for directly.
During periods of very high production, negative wholesale electricity prices are possible. However, under the Solar Peak Law, operators do not have a claim to compensation during these periods. To mitigate this issue, households that had a PV system in operation before February 25, 2025, can voluntarily apply the new regulations and waive their claim to compensation for negative prices, receiving a higher compensation of 0.6 cents per kWh for the electricity fed in. This applies to households that install or have installed a PV system after February 25, 2025, with a capacity of two kilowatts or more.
To prevent temporary generation surpluses from causing grid instability, the Solar Peak Law mandates gradual power reduction by PV systems instead of abrupt shutdowns when grid frequency rises. This controlled, frequency-dependent power curtailment helps stabilize grid frequency and manage solar energy surpluses better to enhance grid stability.
The specific measures for avoiding temporary generation surpluses under the Solar Peak Law in Germany include mandating gradual power reduction by PV systems, replacing sudden shutdown at fixed frequency thresholds. Integration of advanced inverter technologies and potentially battery energy storage systems (BESS) is encouraged to improve grid resilience and efficiency.
Households should consume as much of the electricity produced by their PV system as possible to avoid losing compensation for excess electricity fed into the grid. Flexible consumers such as washing machines or electric vehicle chargers are helpful in consuming excess electricity produced by PV systems.
Under certain conditions, property owners can operate the PV system on the adjacent property instead of the building itself, if the building is unsuitable for operating a PV system or there is no suitable roof area. Private households with single and two-family homes typically have PV systems with a capacity of three to 20 kilowatts (kWp).
The EEG continues to promote the expansion of renewable energies, providing consumers with a feed-in compensation for 20 years from the start of operation, with the period extended by the days on which no compensation was paid. For more information and appointment scheduling, the nationwide helpline of the consumer center can be reached at +49 345 29 27 800.
- In the environmental science field, it's crucial to explore renewable-energy alternatives that could potentially revolutionize the industry in the future.
- Financial institutions could invest in the rapidly growing renewable-energy sector in Germany, considering the long-term feed-in compensation offered under the EEG and the potential for storage systems like battery energy storage systems (BESS) to enhance efficiency.
- To maintain a sustainable environment, it's essential for individuals to opt for other renewable-energy sources like photovoltaic (PV) systems instead of relying on non-renewable energy sources that contribute to environmental degradation.
