German buyers are markedly more conservative: decision cycles 40% longer, certifications and service outrank price. The local-service premium is real: 54% pay 8–15% more for proven German service. Content vacuum: only 2 of the top-20 ‘Speicher Kosten’ results are independent platforms.
| Plan PV+storage within 24 months | 22% |
| Can name ≥1 Chinese brand unaided | 12% |
| Strongly prefer German content | 68% |
| Pay premium for local service | 54% |
For manufacturers: enter Germany with proof of localisation — parts, certification, German support — before price.