On Course for the Energy Transition
Interview with Ruwen Konzelmann, Managing Director, and Marco Sauer, Director of Business Development & Regulation at Theben Smart Energy GmbH
Digitalization is one of the central challenges of our time. It is linked not only to the transition from fossil to renewable energies but also to intelligent control of energy distribution and usage. In this context, digital technologies are increasingly gaining importance. Examples include Smart Meter Gateways, central communication units within intelligent metering systems, as developed by Theben Smart Meter Energy GmbH in Haigerloch.
Wirtschaftsforum: Mr. Konzelmann, Mr. Sauer, Smart Meter Energy is a young company with pioneering digital products and a long history. Can you explain that?
Ruwen Konzelmann: Smart Energy is a 100% subsidiary of Theben AG, a medium-sized, family-owned company founded in 1921, which is a market leader in the field of time switch technology. Until the spin-off in 2023, we were an independent business unit within the AG in the energy sector for many years. Notably, Theben already advocated the slogan 'Energy at the right time' in 1921; today, this slogan is more apt than ever. We aim for decentralization within the German energy grid, so that energy is consumed when it is available, and see ourselves as a company driving the energy transition, which has transformed into an IT security company over the past ten years.
Wirtschaftsforum: How big is Smart Energy today?
Ruwen Konzelmann: We employ about 75 people; in addition, there are about 20 employees in production at Theben AG. This year we expect a turnover of 60 million EUR, with a strong upward trend. We have shipped around 400,000 devices and see a clear dynamic upwards.
Wirtschaftsforum: Smart Energy builds on over 100 years of experience and has earned an excellent reputation with innovations. What solutions does this involve?
Marco Sauer: The core of our portfolio is the Smart Meter Gateway, which is BSI-certified and PTB-approved. There are only five providers in Germany that can guarantee these high standards. It is extremely secure, designed as a communication platform for the energy transition, which can also control photovoltaic systems, wallboxes, or heat pumps. Control systems that are open for further intelligent metering systems and Smart Meter Gateways form a second pillar. As an interface to the energy system, we enable network operators to see what is happening in the network or where intervention is needed because there might be too much load. With these products, we enable a faster energy transition and electrification.
Ruwen Konzelmann: We are building an intelligent network of Smart Grids at the low voltage level in Germany; here, energy is produced and consumed, which is unique in this form.
Wirtschaftsforum: Who do you approach with the smart solutions and how do you assess future prospects?
Marco Sauer: We work for metering point operators, both fundamental and competitive. It is planned that through the gateways gas, district heating, and water can also be measured; the interfaces are already there. Working with just one communication channel is significantly more efficient; therefore, the interest is also great for economic reasons.
Ruwen Konzelmann: The energy transition in Europe is rolling out faster than the revitalization of the power grids. Our products are technically ahead; they are a mix of function and Cyber Security and have the potential to advance the energy transition abroad as well.