Germany opens first 4.5 GW backup capacity tender

Germany has launched its first backup-capacity tender under the StromVKG framework, inviting bids for 4.5 GW of dispatchable resources. The process is aimed at capacity that can support the system when variable renewable generation is low, with long-duration storage among the eligible technologies. For solar developers and storage investors, the tender is a signal that Germany is moving from energy-only renewable build-out toward firm capacity procurement.