The load-relief regions are geographically clearly defined areas in which load-relief facilities must be located in order to absorb curtailed electricity volumes for the benefit of the grid. They therefore constitute a geographical eligibility criterion for participation in the mechanism under Section 13k of the Energy Economy Act (EnWG). In accordance with the implementation plan, these load-relief regions are composed of districts.
Relief regions (valid from 1 October 2026)
The transmission system operators (TSOs) have slightly expanded the eight relief regions from the pilot phase. The boundaries were determined on the basis of historical data, experience gained from the operational processes of the four TSOs, and taking grid planning aspects into account. The corresponding map, which was already published in the implementation concept, is shown below. Further details on the load relief regions can also be found in the Implementation Concept and on the FAQ page.