Europe Solar and Storage Policies in 2025: What You Need to Know

Several European countries are stepping up their efforts to regulate and promote solar power and energy storage, with new rules and funding initiatives that could significantly impact project planning, product certification, and market entry strategies in 2025.

Germany will begin enforcing its Zentrale Register für Einheiten und Komponenten (ZEREZ) registration platform on February 1, 2025. According to official updates based on the revised NELEV ordinance (May 2024), all photovoltaic (PV) and storage system components must be registered in ZEREZ. Unregistered systems will not be allowed to connect to the grid. Once registered, each component receives a unique ZEREZ-ID, which simplifies the formerly fragmented and complex grid-connection approval process.

Hungary has also updated its Energy Act, encouraging apartment residents to form "energy communities" and jointly install solar systems. From July 2025, all new installations must be equipped with networked inverters capable of sending real-time performance data. As noted by Hungarian lawmakers, this aims to improve grid stability and transparency. However, stricter data access policies may limit the use of certain imported products. In addition, Hungary has launched a HUF 26.5 billion (approx. €68 million) “Digital Renewal+” program to support grid operators in modernizing infrastructure for better integration of renewables.

Romania is planning to add up to 1,500 MW of renewable capacity and double its battery storage capacity in 2025, according to recent government reports tied to the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR). The country is also focusing on expanding its domestic manufacturing capabilities for solar panels and storage systems to ensure long-term energy security.

Meanwhile, in Italy, the Friuli Venezia Giulia region has announced a €2.4 million subsidy aimed at helping SMEs invest in self-generation through PV and solar thermal systems. Each company can receive up to €300,000, with up to 70% pre-financing, provided the installations are under 1 MW and located within eligible zones. The program supports storage integration and smart energy management systems.

These policies mark a clear shift toward greater compliance, digitalization, and local energy autonomy across Europe. For suppliers in Solar Cables, inverters, and integrated systems, aligning with these regulatory changes is key to staying competitive.