No to the network package

Traunstein, 19.02.2026

MaxSolar colleagues took part in yesterday's demonstration against the Federal Ministry of Economics' planned network package. The protest took place on 18 February in front of the Federal Ministry of Economics in Invalidenpark in Berlin, where a 20-metre-long rotor blade and discarded solar modules symbolically illustrated the impending standstill of the energy transition. By participating, they drew attention to the considerable risks that the current draft poses for investment, planning security and the rapid expansion of renewable energies.

The proposed regulations would lead to serious economic burdens in numerous grid regions. For example, operators of new plants in areas with more than three percent curtailment in the previous year would only be connected promptly if they waived redispatch compensation for up to ten years. This shifts systemic risks unilaterally to plant operators and undermines the financial viability of many projects that are already fully developed. At the same time, it remains unclear whether grid operators will also be able to charge construction cost subsidies for existing connections in the future. Both factors create an environment in which grid access becomes uncertain, expensive and difficult to calculate.

In addition, the draft bill stipulates that the more than 850 distribution network operators will be allowed to define their own requirements for grid connection. This would create a confusing patchwork of local special rules, which would result in additional costs, lack of transparency and delays, particularly for companies operating throughout Germany. At the same time, it remains unclear how comprehensive capacity restrictions will apply in the future. The result would be a structurally higher investment risk for renewable energies and storage facilities throughout Germany.

The digital grid connection portals announced by the BMWK are a first step towards greater transparency. However, they do not address the core problem: without consistent digitisation of grid control, grid utilisation data and operational processes, efficiency potential remains untapped. Only real-time grid management can create the transparency and reliability that would be necessary for accelerated expansion. The lack of binding commitments further exacerbates the situation – the draft does not provide for clear consequences for measures that are not implemented on time, resulting in a lack of an effective regulatory framework.

MaxSolar is particularly critical of the possible abolition of priority grid connection for renewable energies, which could result de facto from the grid package. At a time when the expansion of renewable capacities urgently needs to be accelerated, a key control instrument would be weakened. Instead of increasing barriers, prioritised grid investments, flexible connection models and the systematic integration of storage facilities would be necessary. Storage facilities could effectively reduce grid bottlenecks, but in many regions they are prevented from charging in the event of redispatch due to a lack of legal basis – an approach that is economically damaging and contradicts the goal of grid stabilisation.

Beyond the individual measures, there is a structural problem: grid expansion remains the responsibility of over 850 distribution network operators, with no clear consequences for failing to meet targets. A lack of accountability, digital infrastructure and sanctions prevents the necessary commitment to synchronise grid expansion with the expansion of renewables.

As a holistic infrastructure developer and operator, MaxSolar covers the entire value chain of the new energy industry. ‘With renewable energies, flexible storage solutions and regional heating and mobility concepts, we are strengthening the resilience of supply and competitiveness of industrial and tech companies as well as local authorities,’ says Christoph Strasser, CEO of MaxSolar GmbH, emphasising against this backdrop: ‘The current proposals shift central grid risks to project developers and jeopardise investments in renewable energies at precisely the moment when flexible solutions and predictable framework conditions would be crucial. A functioning energy transition requires efficient grids, reliable processes and clear responsibilities – only in this way can projects remain financeable, expansion affordable and supply competitive in the long term.’

The energy transition is not a cost factor, but rather a strategic locational advantage. It strengthens resilience, innovative capacity and regional value creation, reduces energy costs in the long term and increases industrial competitiveness. A network package that slows down the expansion of renewable energies or hinders investment runs counter to these goals and jeopardises the modernisation of the German economy as a whole. 

About MaxSolar GmbH:
As a comprehensive infrastructure developer and operator, MaxSolar, founded in 2009 and headquartered in Traunstein, covers the entire value chain of the new energy industry. With renewable energies, flexible storage solutions and regional heating and mobility concepts, MaxSolar strengthens the resilience of supply and competitiveness of industrial and technology companies as well as local authorities.
MaxSolar also offers power purchase agreements (PPAs) for a long-term and predictable supply of green electricity. With a project pipeline of 6.1 gigawatts and six locations in Germany, MaxSolar is active both regionally and nationally.
www.maxsolar.com