Overview

• The Bundesnetzagentur has launched a formal supervision procedure against Westnetz following dozens of delayed payment complaints dating back to 2021
• Network operators cite IT modernization challenges and a surge in new photovoltaic installations as the main causes of the multi-month backlogs
• Under the Renewable Energy Act, solar system owners are entitled to monthly advance payments by the 15th and may claim default interest or pursue legal action if operators fail to pay on time
• Mitnetz is also experiencing IT-related delays but says most outstanding feed-in tariffs will be cleared and paid retroactively in the coming months
• Effective August 1, the statutory feed-in tariff for newly commissioned private solar installations will be reduced by 1 percent, with final rates to be published by the regulator