Under the slogan 'Accelerating Integrated Energy Solutions', The SmarterE Europe 2024, Europe's most comprehensive trade fair alliance for the energy industry, will once again present cross-sectoral solutions for a continuous supply of renewable energies in the areas of electricity, heat and transport this year. The leading European platform in the energy industry comprises four trade fairs: Intersolar Europe, ees Europe, Power2Drive Europe and emPower Europe.
We were also right in the middle of the action at Kyon - whether at our speaking panel at the ees conference taking place at the same time or at our stand at the trade fair itself - with a clear mission as the leading project developer of large-scale battery storage systems in Germany to enable a sustainable and future-proof energy supply with renewable energies.
After three inspiring, exciting and exhausting days, we took away five important insights:
In recent years, the pace of the energy transition has accelerated noticeably and the motivation of the various players to drive it forward together has risen sharply. This dynamic is reflected in the growth of Smarter E. In 2024, the trade fair achieved new record figures for both exhibitors and visitors: Over 3,000 trade fair exhibitors from 55 countries presented their products and services in 19 halls, and around 110,000 interested visitors streamed through the trade fair grounds in Munich over the course of three days to engage in intensive discussions and networking. Nevertheless, there is no blind optimism in Munich. Current hurdles and political/regulatory developments are being discussed, as is the strong growth of the markets.
The presence of Chinese suppliers on the European market has increased noticeably in recent years, which is also clearly visible at trade fairs. In addition to the large, already established manufacturers, previously unknown Chinese companies are increasingly gaining a presence and are now announcing their market entry in Europe. At the same time, considerable investment in production in the USA can also be observed. The Inflation Reduction Act in particular appears to be having an initial impact, as it promotes the local production and development of battery technologies. These developments illustrate a dynamic change in the global energy landscape, with increased competition and new opportunities on the international markets.
Lithium-ion batteries remain the most sought-after technology for large-scale stationary battery storage systems. Thanks to their positive price development, established supply chains and recognized safety standards, these batteries have clearly prevailed over alternative technologies. While alternative battery technologies were still the subject of intense discussion last year, they are receiving significantly less attention this year. Major manufacturers and suppliers are increasingly focusing on scaling up their lithium-ion systems, further strengthening their leading position in the market.
As part of the ees conference, which took place parallel to the trade fair, this year the most dynamic energy storage markets in Europe were discussed in depth. Our colleague Benedikt Deuchert had the honor of presenting the German market. Although the United Kingdom, a large and established market, was surprisingly not on the shortlist, convincing arguments were put forward for markets such as Italy, Greece, Bulgaria and the Netherlands. Despite this strong competition, in the end the audience clearly chose Germany as the most attractive market for energy storage, especially large-scale battery storage systems, in Europe at the moment. This success is primarily due to the enormous demand for storage capacities caused by the rapid progress of the energy transition. In addition, comparatively favorable regulatory framework conditions are helping to support the market-based operation of battery energy storage systems (BESS). This makes it clear that the commercial operation of battery storage systems is not only possible, but also represents a clear investment opportunity.
SmarterEhas made a name for itself and gained widespread recognition, particularly through the Intersolar trade fair. The sub-fair has become a central buzzword that is widely known in the energy sector and is often a household name even for laypeople. However, a key conclusion of the trade fair is that the term "Intersolar" no longer fully does justice to the dynamics and significance of the event. This is because storage technologies, especially in the context of the ees sub-fair, are increasingly becoming the focus of the energy sector and have become indispensable. The energy storage market has developed and consolidated strongly worldwide in recent years. Alongside photovoltaics and wind energy, storage systems are perceived as a completely normal, firmly established renewable asset. They play a central role in the energy transition.
This year's Smarter E Europe trade fair did not disappoint. The record numbers of exhibitors and visitors, as well as our insights, highlight the current momentum of the energy transition and the rapidly increasing pace and public interest. It is equally clear that energy storage will play a crucial role in its future growth.
.png){kind=logo}
