Alliance Pushes for Citizen-Led PV Roof Expansion as Minister Considers Ending Feed-In Tariff
An alliance, backed by prominent organizations and municipalities, is pushing for a citizen-led energy transition through expanded photovoltaic (PV) roof systems. Meanwhile, the future of the feed-in tariff for new roof systems hangs in the balance, with Minister Reiche considering ending it, potentially hindering PV expansion.
The alliance, comprising German Environmental Aid (DUH), the city of Bonn, the municipality of Bakum, Citizens' Energy Alliance (BBEn), and Federal Association for Plug-in Solar (BVSS), emphasizes the high social acceptance and low approval requirements for PV roof systems. They argue that these systems can accelerate expansion, with 1.2 billion square meters of suitable roof areas available, capable of realizing 409 gigawatts of energy without additional network expansion.
The alliance also stresses the importance of roof systems for a fair distribution of energy expansion between urban and rural regions. They believe further expansion in cities is crucial for achieving Paris climate goals due to receptive power grids and local consumption. Sector coupling is encouraged as people invest in roof systems alongside storage systems, heat pumps, and electric vehicles.
However, the future of this expansion is uncertain. Minister Reiche is considering ending the feed-in tariff for new roof systems, which could threaten the growth of photovoltaics. Many renewable energy representatives fear the worst and are calling on Minister Reiche to commit to the energy transition. A 'reality check' for the energy transition, commissioned by Federal Minister of Economics Katherina Reiche (CDU), is set to be published soon.
The alliance's advocacy for expanded photovoltaic roof systems highlights the significant potential of this technology for Germany's energy transition. However, the future of this expansion depends on Minister Reiche's decision regarding the feed-in tariff. The upcoming 'reality check' report may provide further clarity on the government's stance towards the energy transition.
