Grid Feed-In

Grid Feed-In refers to the process in photovoltaics where the electric power generated by a solar system is fed into the public electricity grid. This surplus electricity occurs when the solar system produces more electricity than the household consumption requires.

How Grid Feed-In Works

  1. Electricity Generation: The solar modules convert sunlight into direct current (DC).
  2. Inverter: The inverter converts the direct current into alternating current (AC), which is compatible with the grid.
  3. Feed-In: The generated electricity is fed into the public electricity grid through the meter.
  4. Compensation: For the fed-in electricity, system operators usually receive a feed-in tariff from the grid operator.

Importance of Grid Feed-In

  • Stability of the Power Grid: The decentralized feed-in of solar power makes the power grid more stable and flexible.
  • Promotion of Renewable Energies: Grid feed-in is an important part of the energy transition and contributes to the reduction of CO2 emissions.
  • Self-Consumption: Even when electricity is fed into the grid, part of the generated electricity can be used directly in the household (self-consumption).

Requirements for Grid Feed-In

  • Registration with the Grid Operator: Before commissioning a photovoltaic system, it must be registered with the responsible grid operator.
  • Meter Change: Generally, a bi-directional meter is installed that measures both the electricity drawn and the electricity fed into the grid.
  • Permits: Depending on the size of the system, additional permits may be required.

Legal Framework

The grid feed-in of solar power is legally regulated in Germany, particularly in the Renewable Energy Sources Act (EEG). The EEG specifies the amount of the feed-in tariff and regulates the rights and obligations of system operators.

Keywords: solar system, power grid, feed-in tariff, EEG, self-consumption, inverter, grid operator, renewable energies, energy transition