Grid development

• EEG 2021
• EnWG 2021

Grid operators are legally required to develop the grid to the state-of-the-art technology to ensure the uptake, the transmission and the distribution of the electricity produced with renewable energy sources (§ 12 par. 1 EEG 2021). This also applies for operators of upstream grids. Grid operators must, however, at any time ensure the ability of the system to meet the demand for transmission of electricity, and to contribute to the security of supply through appropriate capacities and system reliability (§ 12 par. 3 EnWG 2021).
Those generating energy from renewable sources can therefore claim the expansion of the grid if the up take, the transmission, or the distribution of their electricity is at risk. Grid operators must take immediate action and reinforce the net capacity of the grid on their own costs (§ 17 EEG 2021). The grid operator is excepted from this obligation, if the enforcement of the grid would cause unacceptable burden (§ 12 par. 3 EEG 2021).
If the grid operator did not meet the obligations, he could be subject to damage compensation payments. Plant operators could also ask for disclosure on the taken measures (§ 13 EEG 2021).