EEG (Renewable Energy Sources Act)
German law promoting renewable energies -- governs the feed-in tariff for solar electricity, among other things.
Also known as: Renewable Energy Sources Act, EEG 2023
What Is the EEG?
The Renewable Energy Sources Act (EEG) is the central German law promoting electricity generation from renewable energy sources. It was introduced in 2000 and has been amended several times since. The EEG governs, among other things, the feed-in tariff, grid connection, and the purchase guarantee for solar electricity.
Key Provisions for PV System Operators
- Feed-in tariff: Guaranteed remuneration for 20 years from commissioning
- Purchase guarantee: Grid operators are obliged to purchase solar electricity
- Registration requirement: Systems must be registered in the Market Master Data Register
- Full feed-in option: Since EEG 2023 with higher remuneration
EEG Milestones
| Year | Amendment | Key Change |
|---|---|---|
| 2000 | EEG 2000 | Introduction of the feed-in tariff |
| 2012 | EEG 2012 | Self-consumption bonus |
| 2017 | EEG 2017 | Tendering requirement for large systems |
| 2023 | EEG 2023 | Higher tariffs, full feed-in option, no more EEG surcharge |
Practical Tip
The EEG is regularly updated. The commissioning date determines the tariff level — the tariff is then locked in for 20 years. Prompt commissioning secures the current rate before the semi-annual degression takes effect.
Related Terms
Feed-in Tariff
Legally guaranteed remuneration for solar electricity fed into the public grid, governed by the EEG.
Grid Operator
Company that operates the local electricity grid and is responsible for grid connection and feed-in tariff payments.
Market Master Data Register
Official register of the Federal Network Agency where all electricity generating systems in Germany must be registered.
Full Feed-in
Operating model where all generated solar electricity is fed into the public grid -- with a higher tariff per kWh.
Surplus Feed-in
Operating model where solar electricity is primarily self-consumed and only the surplus is fed into the grid.