Section 14a of the Energy Industry Act (EnWG) requires all new battery storage systems with a charging capacity exceeding 4.2 kW to be grid-responsive—and in return offers reduced grid fees, a guaranteed grid connection, and access to new revenue models. Dimming by the grid operator affects only grid consumption; self-consumption of self-generated solar power remains completely unaffected. This article provides all the information on what the three modules specifically entail, how §118 EnWG enables additional savings, and what investors need to consider during construction.

With AgNes, the Federal Network Agency is overhauling the entire electricity transmission tariff system—starting in 2029, PV feed-in operators will also be required to contribute to grid costs for the first time. What this means in practice, which deadlines are critical for investors, and why battery storage is now becoming a key regulatory component.

Italy’s new energy decree—the Decreto Bollette—is the most significant regulatory intervention in the European electricity market in years. It lowers wholesale prices by subsidizing the marginal costs of fossil fuels, causes solar capture prices to plummet, and brings the PPA market to a standstill. For PV investors with exposure to Europe, this marks a turning point—and serves as a lesson in just how crucial regulatory stability is for long-term returns.

Starting in 2026, the smart meter requirement will become a significant economic issue for operators of photovoltaic systems with a capacity of 7 kW or more: Anyone feeding electricity into the grid without a smart metering system will permanently lose 40% of their potential feed-in. This article is aimed at operators of photovoltaic systems, investors, and companies with their own PV systems, and explains what the smart meter requirement starting in 2026 actually means—from the legal framework and all deadlines to the new revenue models. Since February 25, 2025, the Solar Peak Act has fundamentally changed the rules of the game for all new PV systems of 7 kW or more: Anyone who does not have a smart metering system installed will permanently feed in only 60% of their output. At the same time, the requirement opens the door to energy sharing starting in June 2026 and dynamic rates—new revenue streams that are simply not accessible without a smart meter.

Starting in July 2027, Contracts for Difference (CfDs) will be mandatory for new PV systems with a capacity of 100 kW or more. As of April 2026, a draft bill has been released, and the CDU/CSU and SPD have agreed on the key provisions. What investors and companies need to decide by the deadline of December 31, 2026—and which strategies will still work after that.

The 2025 Amendment to the Energy Industry Act (EnWG)—officially titled the Act Amending Energy Industry Law to Strengthen Consumer Protection in the Energy Sector—has been in effect since December 23, 2025. The amendment changes the conditions for PV investors and operators of photovoltaic systems in three specific areas: electricity storage systems are significantly strengthened under building codes and regulations; electric vehicles are treated like stationary storage systems for the first time; and energy sharing is given a legal basis. Anyone investing in PV systems in 2026 should be aware of these new energy law regulations.