Analysis of the post-EEG situation for wind and PV power plants in Germany

On January 1, 2021, the first photovoltaic and wind energy power plants will cease to receive subsidies established within the framework of the Renewable Energy Sources Act (EEG). For plant operators, the question arises as to whether it makes economic sense to continue operating the plants after 2021. Plant operators could, for example, market the electricity generated directly or try to close a so-called power purchase agreement (PPA ) in order to receive revenues from that point on.

The purpose of this study is to examine the economics of continuing to operate PV and wind power plants. A range of future possible scenarios are considered. An Excel tool developed as part of the study is designed to evaluate the economics of operating PV and wind power plants from the perspective of plant operators and power purchasers, as well as the fair market design of PPAs under different conditions and assumptions.