The German solar industry is facing a decisive turning point in 2026, according to PV Magazin Deutschland. Following the boom years of 2022 and 2023, a period of disillusionment has set in. At the same time, however, regulatory changes and technological trends are creating new opportunities for growth. For installers, operators, and end customers, the year 2026 will be marked by profound changes: Bidirectional charging will be legally recognized, the EEG will be replaced by Contracts for Difference (CfD), heat pumps will drive demand for photovoltaics, energy sharing will be introduced, and prices for solar modules will rise as Chinese export subsidies come to an end.

In this article, we summarize the most important developments and highlight the opportunities and risks they present for the industry.

  1. Bidirectional Charging: Electric Cars as Energy Storage Devices

    Image on e-mobility: Europe risks falling behind: Electric car at a charging station

Starting in 2026, electric vehicles in Germany will be legally classified as energy storage devices. At the same time, grid fees for charging and feeding power back into the grid will be waived. This combination makes bidirectional charging economically attractive and opens up new business models for homeowners who want to use their vehicle as part of their home energy system.
Challenge: Implementation depends on a nationwide smart meter rollout and adapted grid systems—processes that will still take months to complete. The political will is there, but the infrastructure must follow quickly.

  1. EEG Reform: Contracts for Difference (CfD) Starting in 2027

As of January 1, 2027, the traditional EEG feed-in tariff for new installations will end. Instead, a model based on Contracts for Difference (CfD) will be introduced:

  • Operators negotiate price ranges with direct marketers.
  • If the amount falls below a lower limit, an adjustment is made; if it exceeds an upper limit, the difference is deducted.

This model is difficult for many consumers to understand, so in 2026, impulse purchases could result from customers wanting to take advantage of the simple, traditional feed-in tariff.

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3. Heat pumps are driving up demand for PV systems

More and more homeowners are replacing their old oil or gas heating systems with heat pumps—and combining them with a solar power system. While the subsidy remains in place, the technical requirements are becoming more stringent.

 

  1. Energy Sharing: A New Business Model for Operators

Starting in mid-2026, an EU directive will allow for energy sharing in Germany. Generators with surplus electricity will be able to share it with their neighbors at prices they set themselves. This new EU regulation opens up opportunities for local energy communities and innovative business models.

  1. Rising Procurement Costs: The End of Chinese Export Subsidies

    Container ship

Starting in April 2026, China will eliminate export subsidies for solar modules, cells, and wafers. At the same time, tax incentives for battery storage systems will be phased out by 2027. These measures will lead to higher procurement costs for European manufacturers and are expected to bring an end to the long-standing decline in solar module prices.

Takeaway for Businesses: A Security Deposit as a Safety Net in Uncertain Times

The solar industry is poised to make major investments in new technologies and business models. For companies, this means that liquidity and security are crucial.

The GFL team has many years of experience in the solar industry and can help you mitigate your risks through trade credit insurance, secure your contracts with guarantees, or obtain additional liquidity through a factoring or loan agreement.

Please feel free to contact us about this.