Recording of Tuesday, June 23, 2026 | The smarter E Europe Conferences 2026 | Language: English | Duration: 16:08 .

Enhancing Energy Resilience and Security in Europe

The current energy landscape in Europe is transitioning towards decentralized systems, driven by the vulnerabilities exposed by the Ukraine conflict. Mini-grids have become crucial for maintaining essential infrastructure, particularly in areas where traditional systems have failed. Central planning is necessary for this decentralized model to ensure efficient cross-border energy transport and resilience. As energy systems evolve, the emphasis is placed on investing in solar and battery technologies, which provide significant economic and security advantages over traditional fossil-based solutions. The development of a robust resilience infrastructure is essential, addressing key needs like charging systems, sanitation, and safe energy alternatives to minimize health risks. Effective grid planning and cybersecurity measures are also vital for safeguarding these systems from potential attacks and ensuring ongoing energy supply. Collaboration between Ukraine and European nations in sharing experiences will further enhance this transition, contributing to overall energy security.

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Speaker

Olga Kovalchuk
Managing Director
Goldbeck Solar

David Wedepohl
Managing Director International Affairs
BSW - German Solar Association
Germany

Jarand Rystad
CEO
Rystad Energy AS
Norway

Walburga Hemetsberger
CEO
SolarPower Europe
Belgium

Talk of session: When Power Becomes a Target - Building Resilient European Energy Systems Through Solar, Storage and Grid-Forming Technologies

In the wake of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Europe's energy systems are facing increasing physicaland cyber threats. Strengthening resilience has become a strategic priority. This session explores how solar PV, battery storage and grid-forming technologies can protect critical infrastructure, enhance system stability and support rapid recovery after disruptions. Drawing on lessons from Ukraine and Europe's frontline states, experts will be discussing how decentralized renewables can contribute to energy security.

Key topics:

• How solar, battery storage and renewables contribute to Europe's energy security
• Lessons from Ukraine on system resilience and recovery
• The strategic role of solar-plus-storage in future security planning
• Integrating security into energy system design and regulation

Further Talks of this session:

Welcome and Introduction

Speaker

David Wedepohl
Managing Director International Affairs
BSW - German Solar Association

To Talk

Solar Projects at thier Best!

Speaker

Olga Kovalchuk
Managing Director
Goldbeck Solar

To Talk

The New Energy Security Paradigm for Europe

Speaker

Jarand Rystad
CEO
Rystad Energy AS
Norway

To Talk

From Dependency to Resilience: Renewables and the EU's Security Agenda

Speaker

Walburga Hemetsberger
CEO
SolarPower Europe
Belgium

To Talk

The Sun Supporting the Power System

Speaker

Vladyslav Sokolovskyi
Chairman of the Board of the Solar Energy Association of Ukraine
Solar Energy Association of Ukraine

To Talk