EU Electricity Agreement to Suspend Minimum Compensation: Industry Braces for Change
The energy sector is poised for substantial changes. The EU electricity agreement, anticipated around 2030, may temporarily suspend minimum compensation during negative electricity prices. Meanwhile, the parliament will commence debating proposed changes from mid-2026.
The Federal Council proposes eliminating minimum compensation for excess solar power after a three-year transition period following the EU agreement's implementation. However, the precise date for the parliamentary adoption of the bill remains uncertain.
The new regulations aim to foster flexibility, with distribution network operators potentially restricting feed-in power or offering financial incentives for reduced lunchtime feed-in. Owners and investors are advised to adopt a comprehensive approach, enhancing self-consumption through batteries, electric mobility, and heat pumps to mitigate low-price periods.
The market is unsettled by the ongoing discussion, with a projected decline in photovoltaic system registrations this year, down 10 to 15 percent from last year. Despite this, there will still be a take-off and compensation obligation for systems up to 200 kilowatts, with new minima set for smaller systems.
The EU electricity agreement's impact on minimum wage and photovoltaic systems is expected to be significant. While the exact timeline remains uncertain, the parliament's debate from mid-2026 will provide more clarity. In the meantime, the industry is advised to adapt and innovate to navigate the evolving landscape.
