In some places, the sun may already be shining on entire streets, but the Pipes remain empty. The one issued in April 2026 by IKND and heimatwurzeln e.V. published Survey on local energy policy, in which over 600 local authorities took part, identifies a a major „showstopper“ for the expansion of solar power: the Mains connection. Whole 97 % of local authorities state that Network connections: a (very) big challenge pose when implementing energy projects.

Where the problem lies: distribution networks and substations

A mere 3 out of 10 local authorities report that everything went smoothly. The The problems run deep within the infrastructure, see also the chart below:

• Lack of capacity: Almost every other local authority (46 %) states a lack of capacity in the distribution network as the main problem.
• Infrastructure bottleneck: With 39 % are bottlenecks at substations the reason for the delays.

This is consistent with analyses carried out by the German Association for New Energy Economy in the field of electricity grids, where we regularly report on the necessary modernisation of the network infrastructure report on how to integrate solar parks efficiently.

Bureaucracy and long waiting times

Alongside copper and concrete there is often a lack of digital transparency. Long processing times from network operators and extensive compatibility tests is taking its toll on the local planners. Yet, in theory, the process of connecting to the grid should only take a few months, as is also the case in SonneSammeln Fact Sheet: „Electricity Networks“ is carried out. In reality, the whole process takes, depending on various technical requirements, slow network roll-out, poor communication, etc., several months to a few years. This is a difficult situation for everyone involved, but particularly for the local authorities concerned, which often find themselves further exacerbated by the difficult financial situation.

The call: simpler and faster grid connection procedures 

The energy transition needs high-performance, digitalised networks, in order to make the best possible use of renewable energy and storage facilities. As monopolies, grid operators are obliged under Section 8 of the Renewable Energy Sources Act (EEG) to connect renewable energy installations promptly and to support the energy transition. To this end, they must simplify the process of connecting to the grid – particularly for stand-alone storage systems and solar parks with storage facilities. This would particularly benefit the Local authorities benefit from energy transition projects.

Background:

The Nationwide survey A survey of more than 600 mayors was conducted by the Initiative for a Climate-Neutral Germany (IKND) and heimatwurzeln e.V. initiated. The result: The energy transition at local level rarely fails because of a lack of commitment on the part of those in charge – but rather to a lack of grid capacity, a lack of funding and complicated procedures. To mark the survey, we are publishing a Blog post series to selected results.

An article on the survey results of the Subject area You can read about acceptance here, an article on the subject Municipal participation follows.