How negative power prices in 2025 could pay off for EV drivers

In 2025, the number of hours with negative electricity prices in Germany is expected to increase. Those who charge their EVs flexibly and use a dynamic electricity tariff won’t just save money, they might even get paid to charge. Why this is happening and how you can benefit – all explained in the article.

Negative electricity prices in Germany are on the rise in 2025 – opening up new opportunities for anyone charging their EV with a dynamic electricity tariff. Especially on sunny public holidays and weekends, electricity can not only become extremely cheap, but even profitable. Those who charge their electric vehicle flexibly can save real money – or even earn a little while charging. 

But what’s behind this trend of power prices dropping below zero? What role does the solar boom play? And how can EV drivers in Germany benefit directly? In this article, you’ll learn everything you need to know about negative electricity prices, solar power, and smart charging strategies. 

 Why do electricity prices drop below zero? 

Negative electricity prices occur when the supply of electricity from renewables – especially solar PV – exceeds demand. This happens most often on sunny days with low grid load, such as public holidays like Easter or Pentecost. Since power grids can’t be “overfilled,” utilities sometimes pay consumers to use electricity. 

Those on a dynamic electricity tariff can take advantage of these moments and charge at very low or even zero cost. With smart charging plans, the financial benefit can be even greater. 

Sunniest regions in Germany 

The more sun, the more potential for solar energy and lower electricity prices. According to the German National Tourist Board, Freiburg has the highest number of sunshine hours per year. Even sunnier is Zinnowitz on the island of Usedom, with an average of 1,917 hours of sunshine annually. The record holder is Klippeneck in the Swabian Alps, with over 2,000 hours of sunshine per year. 

July is typically the sunniest month in Germany. In 2024, it delivered 8.7 TWh of solar power – the highest PV output of the year and one of the most active months for negative prices. 

Solar boom in Germany: Record year 2024 

Solar PV in Germany is experiencing historic growth: 2024 saw 16.2 GW of new capacity installed – a new record. Two-thirds of this came from rooftop systems, and one-third from ground-mounted installations. Bavaria was especially active with 4.0 GW in new capacity. One of the largest solar farms with 162 MW is located in Böhlen, Saxony, while the Witznitz Energy Park – also in Saxony – currently leads as Germany’s and Europe’s largest solar park with an installed capacity of 650 MW. 

Home storage systems and balcony solar panels are booming too: around 435,000 new plug-in solar units were reported in 2024. The trend clearly points to decentralized energy supply and self-consumption – a crucial advantage for households with EVs. 

Compelling figures: Solar power covers an increasing share of demand 

By the end of 2024, Germany had over 99.3 GW of installed PV capacity, crossing the 100 GW mark in early 2025. More than five million systems are already in operation. Solar power accounted for 14% of public electricity supply, with renewables overall at 62.7%. 

Germany is now Europe’s leading PV market and also the largest for residential systems. Most new installations are under 30 kWp – ideal for EV-driving households looking to use their own solar power. 

How EV drivers can profit from negative power prices 

For EV drivers, negative power prices offer a new way to optimize charging behavior. Those using dynamic electricity tariffs, smart wallboxes, or solar power from their own roof can significantly reduce electricity costs. During periods of electricity surplus, charging becomes cheaper – or even financially rewarding. 

Key benefits at a glance: 

• Take advantage of zero or negative electricity prices while charging 

• Maximize the value of self-generated solar power 

• Combine with home battery storage for maximum independence 

• Smart charging improves grid stability and lowers emissions 

Current feed-in tariffs for PV in Germany (as of February 2025) 

The feed-in tariff depends on the size and type of system. The following feed-in tariffs have been in effect since February 2025:

Tax benefits for solar sower Systems 

Since January 1, 2023, new tax rules apply to PV systems in Germany: 

• Income tax: Feed-in earnings are exempt if the PV system is up to 30 kWp on a single-family home, or up to 15 kWp per residential/commercial unit (max. 100 kWp per taxpayer). 

• VAT: A 0% VAT rate applies to the purchase and installation of PV systems. 

To benefit from these incentives, systems must be properly registered with the Federal Network Agency within one month of commissioning. For larger systems or specific use cases, different tax regulations may apply. It’s strongly recommended to seek professional tax advice. 

Conclusion: Charge smart – save or even earn 

The combination of sunshine, solar power, and smart EV charging is making 2025 a turning point for electric car drivers. Those investing in the right infrastructure today – from dynamic tariffs to PV systems and smart wallboxes – will be rewarded with low or even negative electricity costs. 

Now is the perfect time to rethink your charging habits and actively benefit from the energy transition. 

Special offer: €1,000 discount on OTOVO solar systems for Elli customers 

As part of our spring campaign, Elli customers receive a €1,000 discount on solar systems from OTOVO. The discount applies to all customers referred via Elli and is automatically deducted from the purchase price – whether it’s just PV or a full system with battery and wallbox. 

• Applies to all setups: with or without storage/wallbox 

• No fine print: the only requirement is booking via Elli 

• Valid for purchase or rental: the amount is deducted directly from the price or factored into reduced monthly rental payments over 20 years 

Even those without an existing PV system can benefit. With dynamic electricity tariffs – such as Volkswagen Naturstrom Flex – it’s possible to take advantage of daily price fluctuations on the energy market. Unlike traditional fixed-rate electricity contracts, dynamic tariffs track real-time market prices, helping EV drivers charge at the lowest possible cost. Learn more in this article.