Panel Discussion of the session Utilities' Evolving Business Models to Adapt to Technological Advancements

Recording of Thursday, May 08, 2025 | The smarter E Europe Exhibition Program 2025 | Exhibition Program | Language: English | Duration: 24:38 .

Experts Discuss Germany's Energy Transition: Infrastructure, Behavioral Change, and Customer Education Challenges

The panel discussion focused on the integration of innovative energy technologies in Germany, highlighting several challenges and solutions. Stefan from Mobility House discussed implementing ChargeFlex with Rhein Energie, noting issues like slow ERP system integration for customer data exchange and smart meter rollout—vital for product innovation but progressing slowly. Legacy systems within utilities pose a dilemma between replacing or integrating existing infrastructure; Octopus Energy's Kraken technology was mentioned as an effective model encouraging other markets through successful use cases. Audience questions revealed that dynamic tariffs have limited adoption in Germany, mainly among prosumers due to technological constraints and market offerings. The potential revenue generation from energy storage plants participating in both energy and ancillary markets varies significantly by country. Challenges around electric motorbikes were also noted—their high costs compared to traditional bikes hinder market growth despite future electrification needs driven by environmental concerns. Internationalization hurdles such as varying stages of smart meter rollouts across regions are significant when expanding into new areas like Germany. Tibber is addressing these challenges by initially rolling out solutions in Nordic countries before introducing them to Germany, focusing on overcoming infrastructure issues and consumer behavior towards new technologies like EVs and VPPs. Germans' skepticism toward rapid tech adoption stems from property control concerns and battery degradation fears associated with EV usage. Better customer education about these technologies' benefits without overwhelming jargon is crucial alongside incentives aligned with regulatory changes keeping pace with advancements.

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Talk of session: Utilities' Evolving Business Models to Adapt to Technological Advancements

European Distribution System Operators (DSOs), energy suppliers and energy service providers have been evolving their business models to adapt to technological advancements and the energy transition. New technologies enable utilities to move beyond traditional energy supply models, creating new revenue streams, enhancing grid resilience and delivering greater value to customers. How can they monetize their role as market facilitators and generate new income from new business models? Join this session to get inspired! Moderator: Thorsten Zörner, CTO, StromDAO

Further Talks of this session: