The ZIA German Property Federation e.V. has generally welcomed the reform approach to the General Grid Tariff System for Electricity (AgNes) initiated by the Federal Network Agency. Nevertheless, the association points out specific requirements for improvements to avoid jeopardising the transformation of the energy system in the real estate sector. The ZIA views the AgNes reform as a crucial strategic decision that will determine the economic viability of investments in photovoltaic systems, energy storage, heat pumps, charging infrastructures, and comprehensive neighbourhood solutions.
Aygül Özkan, Chief Executive of the ZIA, emphasised that the AgNes reform must go beyond merely restructuring the distribution of grid costs. There are significant concerns regarding the potential impact on the economic viability of these essential investments. The increasing role of buildings and neighbourhoods as active participants in the energy system, no longer acting solely as electricity consumers but also generating, storing, and managing energy, necessitates a correspondingly adapted system. A cost distribution based on causation and a stronger consideration of grid usage are fundamentally correct approaches, but they must not hinder investments; rather, they must enable them.
Central grid connection point and coordination with PV obligations
The ZIA advocates for greater cost participation from prosumers, provided that this does not lead to a disadvantage for tenant electricity models, communal building supplies, or neighbourhood solutions. The grid connection point is cited as the decisive criterion. For shared connections of buildings or areas, multiple surcharges must not occur. Furthermore, the association stresses the necessity of synchronising state-level photovoltaic and electrification obligations with federal grid tariff rules. Aygül Özkan emphasised that obliging owners to expand PV is only sensible if grid capacities, connection processes, and the economic marketing of the generated electricity are appropriately coordinated.
Digitalisation as a prerequisite
The implementation of dynamic tariffs, the development of flexibility markets, and the control of installations require a comprehensive digital infrastructure. The ZIA sees an accelerated smart meter rollout and extensive digitalisation of processes as an indispensable prerequisite for the full effectiveness of the AgNes reform. Without these fundamental advances, the potential of AgNes would remain untapped.
The Chief Executive of the ZIA concluded by stating that AgNes can serve as a crucial building block for the energy transition. However, this will only succeed if the reform ensures fair cost distribution, protects investments, and makes flexibility practically usable. This requires practical rules, reliable grid connections, and regulation that coherently combines both federal and state requirements, thereby effectively supporting the building transformation.
