Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Amprion Says Its Grid Is Full, Backs Surcharges and End to First-Come Rules

The operator's chief warns the high-voltage network is effectively sold out, pressing Berlin to set connection priorities.

Overview

  • Amprion reports a peak load of about 27 gigawatts in its system versus roughly 70 gigawatts in granted connection commitments, leaving scant capacity for new projects.
  • CEO Christoph Müller supports a construction-cost surcharge on new wind and solar hookups, with higher fees in congested areas and lower charges where the grid is less strained.
  • He endorses scrapping the Windhundprinzip so scarce connection capacity is no longer awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.
  • Müller says choices between connecting industry, data centers, storage and renewables require political direction and should be set by the federal government, not grid operators.
  • He argues developer contributions could reduce network charges for customers and calls for an energy policy that balances affordability, reliability and environmental goals.