Ever More Frequent Negative Electricity Prices: A New Reality and Challenges for Photovoltaics and Wind Power in a Changing Energy Market—Threat or Opportunity, and Where Are the Limits of Sustainability?

Marek Pavlík ()
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Marek Pavlík: Department of Electric Power Engineering, Technical University of Košice, 04001 Košice, Slovakia

Energies, 2025, vol. 18, issue 10, 1-7

Abstract: In recent years, negative electricity prices have ceased to be a rare phenomenon and are becoming a new reality in markets with a high share of renewable energy sources. This introductory article examines the increasing frequency of negative prices—particularly in Germany—as a consequence of the rapid expansion of solar and wind power plants. It highlights the sharp decline in the so-called capture rate for renewable producers and outlines technical, market-based, and regulatory solutions to this challenge. As the energy transition accelerates, key questions emerge concerning grid flexibility, market design, and investment returns. This article also serves as a call to researchers, analysts, and energy professionals to join the ongoing discussion by contributing their insights, case studies, and innovative solutions to this Special Issue of Energies . Are negative prices merely a transitional side effect of decarbonization or a warning sign of deeper systemic inefficiencies? Join the debate and help shape the future of sustainable energy.

Keywords: negative electricity prices; renewable energy sources; photovoltaics; wind power; capture rate; grid flexibility; electricity market (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q Q0 Q4 Q40 Q41 Q42 Q43 Q47 Q48 Q49 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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