Falling electricity prices in 2025: Why solar installers should act now

06.09.2024

The latest information from ElCom has arrived: electricity prices for the basic supply will fall in 2025. However, while this may sound like good news for electricity consumers at first glance, it is not necessarily so for owners of photovoltaic systems. This is because the redelivery prices for solar power fed into the grid are also at risk of falling - and possibly sharply.

ElCom announces falling electricity prices for 2025. For owners of solar installations, this means lower savings on electricity costs on the one hand and an expected reduction in the remuneration for electricity fed into the grid on the other. The extent of these reductions remains unclear for the time being, depending on the electricity provider. It is quite understandable that owners of PV systems are not happy about this.

But what significance does this development have for suppliers and service providers in the solar industry?

Growing importance of self-consumption

ELEKTRON AG expects some solar system operators to be in trouble at the beginning of the year. In future, it will be even more important for them to use the solar power they generate themselves as directly as possible instead of feeding it into the grid. Falling redelivery prices reduce the economic attractiveness of feeding into the grid. Increasing self-consumption could therefore become a decisive strategy.

The desire for greater independence from price fluctuations caused by external factors will play a major role in the procurement strategy of potential and current solar system operators. Economic considerations and amortization considerations of system owners are still highly relevant, but are juxtaposed with the need for independence.

The installation of battery storage systems that optimize self-consumption is becoming increasingly important. Battery storage systems make it possible to store surplus solar power and consume it yourself when needed instead of selling it to the energy supplier at low tariffs.

Emergency power capability and security of supply as plus points

An additional way to increase the benefits of solar systems is to equip them with emergency power capability. In times of uncertainty and possible power outages, such a function can be a significant advantage. Systems that ensure an uninterruptible power supply offer added value that goes beyond pure cost savings and increases independence from the public power grid.

Flexible systems for the future

System operators and installers are required to focus on future-proof solutions when planning and consulting. Systems that can be flexibly adapted to new circumstances, for example by simply retrofitting battery storage systems, offer customers long-term security and economic benefits. That's why it's even more important now: no PV project without a hybrid inverter. This is the only way for system operators to remain independent and fit for the future.

Outlook: Uncertain development of electricity prices

Even if the electricity prices for 2025 initially fall, the longer-term development remains uncertain. Prices could rise again in the coming years. Last year's experience with the volatility of prices due to factors such as war or economic uncertainties also resonates in the decisions. Early advice and strategic planning are crucial to prepare customers for these possible developments.

Conclusion: Recognizing the opportunity in the challenge

At first glance, the announced electricity price cuts may appear to be a challenge for the solar industry. However, they also offer the opportunity to focus on independence and self-consumption right now. Suppliers and service providers who help their customers to benefit from this development will not only secure a sustainable business for themselves, but also strengthen the trust of their customers.

Follow the latest developments on redelivery conditions on the industry news | VSE (strom.ch) page and prepare yourself for the upcoming changes!

Now is the time to invest in battery storage, increase independence from the basic supplier and maximize self-sufficiency and self-consumption!