Germany turns net electricity exporter, driven by wind power rise

In the first quarter of 2026 Germany became a net exporter of electricity for the first time since the fourth quarter of 2023. Exports rose 20.4% while imports fell 15.5%, creating a surplus of 3.1 billion kilowatt‑hours. Renewable sources accounted for 53.3% of domestic generation, with wind power expanding by almost 29% to 42.8 billion kWh, representing one‑third of total output. Coal remained the second‑largest source at 24.1%, and gas production increased 3.2% to 25.4 billion kWh. Austria was the largest foreign buyer, and exports to Denmark and Norway grew, whereas shipments to France, Belgium and Switzerland declined. The average day‑ahead market price dropped 8.7% to €102.17 per MWh. The consumer federation vzbv called for a cut in the electricity tax to provide immediate relief for households and to reduce dependence on fossil fuels.