Net billing replaces net metering as Greece modernises solar policy

The new Ministerial Decision introduces net billing, real-time (simultaneous) netting, plug-in balcony solar systems, and standalone battery energy storage systems.

The reform follows the adoption of Law 5299/2026 on Renewable Energy Sources (RES) and seeks to align the market with the evolving needs of Greece’s electricity system. The sector has already experienced remarkable growth: since 2020, more than 37,000 self-consumption systems with a combined installed capacity of 1,070 MW have been deployed, compared with just 1,772 systems totaling 36 MW between 2015 and 2019.

New Self-Consumption Models

The draft regulation establishes four self-consumption schemes: net energy metering, simultaneous (real-time) netting, virtual net energy metering, and virtual simultaneous netting.

The most significant change is the transition from the traditional net metering model to net billing and simultaneous netting. Under the new framework, the value of self-generated electricity depends increasingly on the extent to which production coincides with consumption. Remote metering becomes mandatory for these systems, while surplus electricity will be remunerated through the wholesale electricity market.

Capacity Limits for Households and Businesses

For residential photovoltaic systems, the maximum installed capacity remains unchanged at 10.8 kW per electricity connection.

For businesses, legal entities and agricultural holdings participating in self-consumption schemes, the capacity limit is set at 100 kW per connection.

Under the simultaneous netting model, installed capacity may reach up to 100% of the contracted consumption capacity. Specific provisions also apply to Greece’s Non-Interconnected Islands and to energy communities.

Balcony Solar Systems

For the first time, the regulation establishes a legal framework for so-called plug-in photovoltaic systems, commonly referred to as balcony solar panels.

These consist of small photovoltaic systems with a maximum installed capacity of 900 watts, designed to connect directly to a standard electrical outlet and intended exclusively for self-consumption. Feeding electricity into the grid is prohibited, while the installation of a zero-export device and a remote metering system is mandatory.

These systems may be installed without a grid connection agreement or connection fee, creating a new market opportunity for apartment owners and small residences that lack suitable rooftop space.

Framework for Battery Storage

The draft regulation also introduces a clear regulatory framework for standalone battery energy storage systems.

These batteries must operate exclusively in zero-export mode, while the inverter capacity may not exceed the contracted power capacity of the electricity connection.

Energy storage is regarded as a critical component of the new self-consumption model, as it enables electricity generated during one period to be consumed at a later time.

Digital Procedures and New Deadlines

For residential photovoltaic systems of up to 10.8 kW, the application process will become fully digital through an online platform using Taxisnet credentials. The grid connection fee is set at €370.

The distribution system operator will be required to respond within 15 days. If no response is provided within that period, consumers will be entitled to proceed with the connection after notifying the operator.

At the same time, a new Electronic Self-Consumption Registry will be established, recording all installations and associated electricity supply points participating in self-consumption schemes.

What the Changes Mean for the Market

The new regulatory framework significantly changes the way self-consumption projects are designed. Engineers will now be required to place greater emphasis on actual electricity consumption profiles rather than simply maximizing the annual output of photovoltaic systems.

Meanwhile, mandatory remote metering will increase installation costs but will also enable far more accurate measurement of electricity generation and consumption.

Overall, the new framework marks Greece’s transition from the traditional net metering model to a more sophisticated self-consumption regime, in which energy storage, digital monitoring and the real-time alignment of electricity generation with consumption become the defining factors of system performance and economic value.