Bundesnetzagentur plans new regulations for EV charging

The German Federal Network Agency (Bundesnetzagentur) is planning new regulatory requirements under the MiSpeL framework, set to take effect in October 2026. These rules aim to integrate storage and charging points into the market but could restrict bidirectional charging for electric vehicles by treating them as conventional power storage.

Major industry players, including BMW, Ford, E.ON, and Volkswagen’s charging subsidiary Elli, have expressed opposition. They warn that these hurdles could stifle the development of bidirectional charging technology and result in billions of euros in lost savings for both private households and businesses. Additionally, the draft includes provisions for photovoltaic systems up to 30 kWp, where exceeding certain energy injection thresholds could lead to a loss of solar subsidies and grid fee reimbursements.

Separately, existing regulations under Paragraph 14a of the Energy Industry Act allow local grid operators to temporarily reduce the power supply to controllable consumption devices, such as private wallboxes exceeding 4.2 kW, to prevent local grid overload. This is not a fixed rationing of electricity but a temporary reduction in charging speed, ensuring that a minimum of 4.2 kW remains available to allow continued, albeit slower, charging.