Net metering ends in 2027: the biggest change for solar panel owners

Net metering will end completely on January 1, 2027, with no gradual phase-out. From that date, energy suppliers must offer a reasonable fee for electricity fed back into the grid, as assessed by the Authority for Consumers and Markets (ACM). There is no fixed minimum percentage, contrary to some claims: the compensation must reflect the market value of the electricity and cannot be disproportionately low.

For households with solar panels, this means that self-consumption becomes more financially attractive than feeding power back into the grid. Managing energy usage is therefore becoming more relevant, for example with a heat pump that automatically determines when to heat a boiler based on generated solar power.

ISDE subsidy: enjoy the highest amount now, before it decreases

For 2027, €499 million in ISDE subsidies is available for the purchase of heat pumps and household insulation measures. While the budget is in place, the conditions are changing: starting in 2027, subsidy amounts for most heat pumps will decrease. Anyone wanting to take advantage of the current, higher rates should have their system installed this year. Furthermore, ISDE subsidies are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis until the budget is exhausted. Waiting could mean not only a lower subsidy amount but, in the worst case, no subsidy at all.

From 2027, an additional condition applies: your heat pump must be capable of responding to dynamic energy prices to qualify for the ISDE subsidy. Weheat Intelligence already does this automatically, so you don't need to do anything yourself. We previously described exactly what is changing regarding the subsidy conditions in 2027 and what that means for choosing a heat pump in this article.

Grid congestion: government accelerates construction and connections

The government is introducing new emergency legislation to address the overloaded power grid, effective October 1, 2026. Legal proceedings regarding new power connections will now be handled in a single process, directly by the highest court, with a maximum ruling period of six months. Additionally, the government is waiving permits for high-voltage substations and providing exemptions from nitrogen permits for grid expansion. The goal is to halve the lead time for new power connections.

This urgency is well-founded: the ACM has already set the grid tariffs for 2027. An average household will pay €89 more for the electricity grid and €52 more for the gas grid next year. This demonstrates how expensive a congested grid is in practice and why this emergency legislation is so urgent. It underscores why managing energy usage based on timing is already valuable: a heat pump that accounts for grid load and energy prices helps relieve the grid during peak hours.

The heat pump becomes the standard by 2029

Starting in 2029, the government will standardize and promote the rollout of hybrid, smart heat pumps in areas where a heat network is not suitable. This legal requirement has been slightly delayed compared to earlier plans, but it is not yet a reality. Those who switch now are already ahead of the curve: the choice is primarily driven by lower energy costs and comfort, not by obligation.

Additional investments: good to know

The government is allocating a total of €7 billion for housing construction through 2035, of which €205 million is earmarked for innovation and scaling, which is relevant for the project market. For the SDE++, the scheme for large-scale sustainable energy projects, an annual budget of €8 billion has been reserved for 2027 through 2032.

Frequently asked questions

Should I install a heat pump now, or can I wait until 2029?
There is no legal obligation for 2029. However, with the end of the net-metering scheme, managing your own energy consumption is becoming more valuable, regardless of legislation. Do you need to replace your central heating boiler soon anyway? Then that is a great time to look into a heat pump.

What does the end of net-metering mean for me if I already have solar panels?
From 2027, you will no longer be able to offset the electricity you draw from the grid against the electricity you feed back into the grid with your solar panels. Instead, your energy supplier must provide you with a "reasonable" fee for the electricity you feed back. Using your own generated power will likely be more cost-effective then.

Will the ISDE subsidy for heat pumps remain available in 2027?
Yes, €499 million has been reserved for households, though at lower amounts than in 2026. Your installer can advise you on the current terms and the application process.

What is grid congestion and why does it affect me?
Grid congestion means that the electricity grid in certain areas no longer has capacity for new or additional connections. For this reason, the government is accelerating legal procedures regarding new power connections starting October 1, 2026.

Will the hybrid heat pump become mandatory from 2029?
The government is setting standards and incentivizing the rollout of hybrid, smart heat pumps by 2029 in areas where a heat network is not suitable. This requirement has been slightly delayed compared to earlier plans. Consult your installer for the latest status.

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