A broad alliance of 13 associations is calling for rapid improvements in access to electricity grids. The appeal is aimed at the German government and grid operators and emphasizes that a lack of grid connection capacity is slowing down investment in industry, commerce, the real estate sector and private applications. According to the associations, both companies and households need reliable connection capacities so that electrification, digitalization and the expansion of renewable energies can succeed. Generation and storage systems are also dependent on reliable feed-in and withdrawal grids.
Expansion, digitalization and transparent procedures necessary
The associations are calling for the rapid expansion of grid connection capacities, digitalized and standardized processes and binding deadlines for connection procedures. ZVEI Managing Director Sarah Bäumchen: "The electricity grid is the backbone of the energy transition. The transformation can only succeed if the infrastructure is efficient, digital and future-proof. We therefore don't have a 'chicken and egg problem' - the infrastructure has to deliver." The bne points to the urgent need for genuine grid transparency in order to enable fair and flexible connection contracts. DENEFF emphasizes that energy efficiency and grid connections must be considered together in order to efficiently decarbonize industry and buildings. The real estate industry also believes that standardized formats for inquiries and communication are needed throughout Germany.
Location and competitiveness at risk
SMEs see an increasing need for electricity to decarbonize their heating processes and warn of delays in connection capacity. The vzbv is calling for digitalized, user-friendly processes so that citizens can easily connect photovoltaic systems, heat pumps or charging infrastructure. Energy cooperatives point out that local commitment to the energy transition can fail if infrastructure and grid expansion lag behind. Retailers also see the achievement of their PV and charging targets at risk.