Solar energy reduces German electricity costs by 15.7 billion euros

A study commissioned by the German Solar Industry Association (BSW-Solar) and conducted by Enervis indicates that solar power significantly lowered electricity procurement costs in Germany in 2025. The report suggests that without the approximately 20 percent solar share in the energy mix, wholesale electricity prices would have been roughly 20 percent higher. This resulted in a calculated reduction of 15.7 billion euros in costs for consumers, businesses, and industry.

For a typical private household, the savings amounted to nearly 100 euros, while an industrial operation consuming ten gigawatt-hours annually avoided approximately 235,000 euros in costs. The study also notes 2.6 billion euros in revenue from solar energy exports. BSW-Solar has urged the federal government to maintain support for renewable energy during upcoming legislative updates.

Separately, the Federal Network Agency (Bundesnetzagentur) has released a draft proposal regarding grid fees for prosumers. Starting in 2029, households with solar installations may face a higher base price for the electricity grid. While headlines suggest a potential 90 percent increase, the surcharge applies only to the fixed grid component of the base price, not the total electricity bill. The expected additional cost for households is estimated to be under 100 euros per year, though industry experts suggest it could reach 155 euros. Balcony solar systems are explicitly excluded from this increase.