Netzrückspeisung

Netzrückspeisung is a term used in German electricity policy and engineering to describe the process by which surplus electrical energy generated by a consumer or a distributed generator is returned to the public power grid. The practice underlies the concept of net metering, whereby customers with on‑site renewable power systems (for example photovoltaic panels or small wind turbines) do not pay a separate feed‑in tariff for every kilowatt-hour sent into the network. Instead, the energy export offsets the customer’s consumption, and any balance is settled at a predetermined grid price or credit.

The legal framework for Netzrückspeisung is defined in the German electricity market regulations, including the Energiewirtschaftsgesetz (EnWG) and the Bundesnetzagentur guidelines. Operators are required to maintain grid stability; therefore, export limits may be imposed, especially during periods of high network voltage or low grid frequency. Grid codes also stipulate technical conditions such as voltage, reactive power control, and synchronisation requirements.

Benefits of Netzrückspeisung include incentivising distributed generation, reducing peak demand on the transmission system, and accelerating the transition to renewable energy. Nevertheless, the practice can create revenues for grid operators that must be balanced against the costs of grid upgrades and integration of variable energy sources. Critics argue that unchecked rescheduling of net payouts can undermine utilities’ financial viability, whereas proponents contend that the system fosters decentralised energy security and lowers overall consumption.