Members of Germany’s Green Party parliamentary group are advocating for a significant expansion of solar energy infrastructure across the country, outlining proposals for a new “solar offensive”. A position paper, details of which were published Monday by the “Süddeutsche Zeitung”, calls for guaranteed funding for all newly installed solar power systems.
The Green Party argues that a rapid acceleration of the energy transition is necessary, emphasizing the need for increased solar capacity, digitization and energy storage solutions. The paper stipulates that individuals and entities investing in renewable energy should retain the right to swift and streamlined grid connection, alongside continued remuneration for domestically produced solar power fed into the grid.
The proposals come amidst ongoing debate surrounding future subsidies for private solar installations. Federal Economics Minister Katharina Reiche (CDU) has recently expressed reservations about the continued need for financial incentives for new private solar systems.
The Green Party strongly disagrees, calling for greater public investment in solar installations on public buildings – such as daycare centers, schools and nursing homes – financed through existing special funds. Green Party parliamentary group leader Katharina Dröge has criticized Reiche’s energy policies, claiming they are detrimental to both the German economy and climate protection efforts and describing the current approach as a setback for Germany’s energy transition.