Feeding solar power into the grid without registration: Is that possible?

Feeding in solar power without registration only works under a very specific condition. This is usually very difficult to realise. Nevertheless, solar systems are still in vogue.

Feeding in solar power without registration – what you should know

Many EU regulations cause confusion. Regulation 2016/631 is no different. This classifies so-called small generators as not systemically relevant, as the output is not significant according to the EU. In this case, small generators are all solar plants with an output of less than 800 watts.

• Since the EU regulation came into force, the rumour has been circulating that solar electricity can be fed into the grid without registration – but this is not the case. In Germany, you are not allowed to feed solar power into the public grid without registration or authorisation.
• In short: Even if you only operate a small balcony power plant with an output of up to 600 watts, you must register it. Probably only very few people are in the comfortable situation of being able to network themselves completely into an off-grid system.
• With this variant, you supply yourself with electricity and are completely self-sufficient. In addition to a photovoltaic system, you need at least one intermediate storage unit. The capacity of the storage unit should therefore be such that you can store enough energy temporarily.

• Even though you have to register the balcony power plant yourself with various authorities, the effort is considerably less than with a powerful photovoltaic system. While the photovoltaic system has to be checked and approved in advance, at least this effort is not required for the mini solar power system
• You do not have to have the plug-in solar system approved, but it must comply with the official requirements. You should already pay attention to this when buying. Registering the balcony power plant is relatively unproblematic, but should be done immediately. If you fail to register the plug-in solar power system, you could face a fine.
• You must register the balcony power plant both with your grid operator and with the Market Master Data Register. The registration is free of charge. However, the grid operator will probably replace your meter relatively soon after the registration of the plug-in solar power system. The replacement of the old meter is usually free of charge, as all old meters must be replaced by digital meters by 2032 anyway.
• In addition, it is important to note that the small-scale generators classified as non-significant by the EU have been downgraded even further in Germany. The power of mini-solar systems may not exceed 600 watts. However, there is one exception – the so-called stand-alone system.
• The installation of the new meter will result in higher maintenance costs. The fees can rise from the previous level of around 12 euros to a minimum of 16 euros and a maximum of 20 euros. If the grid operator decides to install a smart meter in your home, maintenance will cost you 23 euros a year if you do not consume more than 2,000 kWh of electricity a year
• If you consume more than 2,000 kWh up to and including 3,000 kWh/year, you have to pay 30 euros per year. If you consume more than 3,000 kWh up to and including 4,000 kWh per year, you will have to pay 40 euros per year. In addition, there are the costs for the balcony power plant, possibly also for a fused Schuko socket or a Wieland socket
• Finally: You are not allowed to feed solar electricity into the grid without registering, but the effort required to do so is limited for mini solar systems. Nevertheless, you should calculate the costs in advance. It may take many years for your mini solar system to pay for itself.