Intelligent Storage
Interview with Rebekka Schuster, Chief Commercial Officer Storage & C&I
Renewable energies are the future – but without efficient storage, their potential remains limited. Here, EDF power solutions Deutschland GmbH steps in – the company develops intelligent battery storage systems that stabilize networks and make the energy transition economically viable. Chief Commercial Officer Storage & C&I Rebekka Schuster talks to us about growth, responsibility, and innovation.
Whether it's a brewery, metalworking firm, or automotive supplier – high electricity costs are a burden for many industrial companies. 'Our battery storage systems level out peak loads and directly reduce grid charges,' explains Rebekka Schuster. EDF power solutions is developing stand-alone storage systems in Germany that operate independently from photovoltaic systems and are precisely tailored to the consumption profile of each company. Currently, there are more than 20 plants with over 20 MW of power in planning, construction, or operation. Around 20 employees oversee the projects nationwide, from both the Berlin headquarters and the offices in Hamburg and Stuttgart. The systems are becoming increasingly efficient: After early pilot projects with 0.1 MW, a 5 MW storage system is currently being implemented.
Economic Efficiency Without Risk
A distinctive feature of the company is its operator model: "Our customers have no capital expenditure – we take care of planning, financing, and operation completely," explains Rebekka Schuster. The savings are shared: a portion remains with the company, while the rest refinances the storage. This particularly benefits enterprises with high energy needs by providing predictable cost reductions without any risk on their part. This is made possible by the strength of the international EDF power solutions group, one of the largest providers of renewable and low-carbon energy in Europe, who is driving forward the development of innovative storage solutions. At trade fairs and conferences, the group presents their projects and seeks direct interaction with customers – each project promotes sustainable energy use.
Future with System
In addition to economic efficiency, EDF power solutions emphasize digital intelligence and smart networking. "Digital control systems and artificial intelligence are playing an increasing role: they enable flexible deployment of storage and dynamic management of grid load," explains Rebekka Schuster. By pooling individual plants, virtual power plants are created that stabilize the power grid. However, regulatory requirements often delay expansion, and varying specifications from grid operators complicate implementation. Hence, EDF power solutions is working on standardized processes and plans to implement larger storage solutions and cooperate with grid operators in the future. Behind the success is a dedicated team that vigorously drives forward the energy transition locally.