Germany's grid reforms threaten delays for wind and solar energy projects
Germany's Economy Ministry is planning a new 'grid package' to reform how renewable energy connects to the power network. The proposed changes could limit priority feed-in and connection rights for wind and solar projects. Operators may face delays and reduced compensation for curtailment losses under the updated rules.
The reforms would allow distribution grid operators to set their own connection procedures for new wind and solar plants with a capacity of 135 kilowatts or more. This shift could slow the expansion of renewable installations in some areas.
Under the new rules, immediate grid connection would no longer be guaranteed if over 3% of renewable electricity was curtailed in a grid area the previous year. Operators of affected plants might also lose statutory compensation for curtailment losses for up to ten years.
The proposals come as grid congestion remains a challenge. In 2023, redispatch measures—interventions to manage network bottlenecks—reached around 34 terawatt-hours. Distribution networks caused 41% of these issues, while transmission networks accounted for 59%.
The Economy Ministry has not confirmed whether it will adjust existing feed-in or connection priority rules. The grid package is being developed alongside an upcoming amendment to the Renewable Energy Sources Act (EEG).
If approved, the changes would give grid operators more control over renewable energy connections. New plants could face longer wait times and reduced financial protection against curtailment. The reforms aim to ease grid congestion but may impact the speed of Germany's green energy expansion.
