VERBUND and Fluence collaborate on two large-scale battery storage systems in Germany

VERBUND has commissioned Fluence Energy GmbH, a subsidiary of Fluence Energy, Inc. (NASDAQ: FLNC) (Fluence), a global leading provider of smart energy storage solutions, storage services, and software, to build large-scale battery storage systems with total capacity in excess of 92 MW and a storage volume of 186 MWh.   These innovative energy storage solutions are designed to meet key power grid requirements while complying with strict regulations governing noise. Once complete, the first project – a large-scale battery storage system in Weißenthurm-Kettig – will produce a capacity of 50 MW and a storage volume of 100 MWh. A second system with a capacity of 42.9 MW and a storage volume of 86.5 MWh is currently being planned in Elsterberg-Coschütz. Both projects benefit from a modular system approach that ensures improved output and scalability.

By taking this step, VERBUND and Fluence Energy are relying on pioneering technologies to promote the integration of renewable energy into the grid and to strengthen supply security. After all, expanding wind and solar power will expose the electricity grid to major fluctuations, which can then be compensated for by battery storage systems. With grid-related services, battery storage systems secure the distribution network and help integrate renewable energy. Costs for the use of the upstream network or substation levels are saved by feeding in power and labour. In addition, excess energy is used in the control power market or intraday market. With 110 MW/130 MWh already in operation at over a dozen sites, VERBUND is positioning itself as an important player in the field of battery storage on the German market.   The storage projects with Fluence bring VERBUND much closer to the goal of installing approximately 1 GW of storage capacity by 2030.

Noise prevention and cybersecurity expertise

In both projects, Fluence was selected on the basis of its extensive and global experience in supplying large-scale battery storage systems for energy suppliers, as well as its vast knowledge of the regulatory framework and the specific requirements in Germany. Fluence also offers extensive noise prevention experience, including the preparation of detailed noise reports, and cybersecurity measures that meet high system security standards.

“With 750 MW of storage projects currently under construction across Germany, Fluence plays a key role in supporting a cost-effective, reliable, and secure energy supply. The Weißenthurm-Kettig and Elsterberg-Coschütz projects represent another important step toward strengthening Germany’s energy infrastructure,” comments Markus Meyer, Managing Director of Fluence Energy GmbH.

“Thanks to decades of experience in constructing high-performance large-scale battery storage systems that meet stringent technical and regulatory requirements, Fluence is ideally positioned to support the transition to clean energy in Germany. Working together with a partner as innovative as VERBUND, we are looking forward to helping shape the transition to clean energy in Germany.”

Reliable partner for large-scale battery storage systems in Germany

The coalition agreement signed by the new Federal Government and the electricity scenario framework recently published by the Germany Federal Network Agency (Bundesnetzagentur) underline the important role played by energy storage in ensuring a secure and affordable energy system. The development and implementation of energy storage projects requires an in-depth understanding of the applicable legislation on grid connection policies, permit requirements related to noise prevention and fire protection, and regulations on cybersecurity. Here’s where Fluence steps in to help its partners in Germany accelerate their storage projects in Germany while minimising risks.

In addition to operating the systems, VERBUND’s focus in the collaboration is on marketing battery storage. As a reliable trading partner in all energy markets, VERBUND offers its customers the chance to make optimal use of their storage resources and contribute to achieving a reliable power grid. The trading algorithms developed in-house ensure that offers are marketed intelligently and take opportunities on all markets into account.

“Reliable partners such as VERBUND and Fluence are crucial for the successful development and implementation of energy storage projects that meet the requirements of the new Federal Government and the Federal Network Agency. We are delighted to be working with Fluence to tackle the challenges posed by the transition to clean energy in Germany together,” explains Karl Potz, Head of Battery Storage Systems at VERBUND.

“Our innovative trading algorithms allow us to optimally market the battery storage systems and make a significant contribution to a stable power grid. This partnership marks another step towards a secure and affordable energy system in Germany.”

About Fluence

Fluence is a global market leader in energy storage and optimisation software for renewable energy and storage systems. Our products contribute to a reliable power grid and are driving the transition to clean energy. With a presence in 48 markets globally, Fluence is transforming the energy supply to achieve a sustainable future.