Panel Discussion: How to Unlock the Gigantic Flexibility Potenial of Solar-Hybrid Power Plants?

premium account

Recording of Wednesday, May 07, 2025 | The smarter E Europe | Conference Program | Language: English | Duration: 10:27 .

Experts Discuss Future of Co-Located Battery Storage and Wind Farms at Energy Conference

During a presentation, Cecilie addressed questions regarding energy storage systems and their integration with renewable sources. Jake Iverson from Redox One inquired about the optimal charge-discharge duration for co-located storage assets, to which Cecilie responded that it varies based on market applications but noted a general trend towards two-hour durations. She highlighted global targets set by the IEA and COP29 for short-duration (1.5 terawatts by 2030) and long-duration (5 terawatts by 2040) energy storage. Philip from BKV Infra Service asked about integrating battery storage with wind farms concerning grid connections. The discussion revealed that while solar projects have predictable patterns like the duck curve, wind projects offer more consistent supply over time but are site-specific due to varying production profiles. The conversation also touched upon challenges faced in predicting future trends due to policy shifts like IRA tax credits affecting US markets' stability. Despite uncertainties impacting investor confidence, opportunities exist as standalone storages become saturated; co-located solutions can leverage complementary strengths of renewables and participate actively in power markets. Panelists concluded with reflections on optimizing grid resources and reducing total system costs through hybrid PPAs.

Automated summarization by AI Conver

Rebecca McManus
Research Associate
Aurora Energy Research
Germany

Cecilie Kristiansen
Research Associate
Wood Mackenzie
United Kingdom

Ulrike Gunnemann
Head of Storage & Hybrids
BayWa r.e. AG
Germany

Bruce Douglas
CEO
Global Renewables Alliance
Belgium

Grid congestion, curtailment and increasing occurrence of negative electricity prices have spread across Europe as the growth of intermittent renewables has reached significant levels and continues to grow.A key to solving these challenges lies in flexibility. Hybrid PV power plants -which combine solar with wind and storage - are emerging as a critical solution for both existing and new projects. This session will explore the market potential, framework conditions, and outlook for hybrid solar-based energy systems in Europe. This session will provide: Key drivers for hybrid solar plant development in Europe Challenges and opportunities for project implementation Policy frameworks supporting solar-based hybrid power plants in the EU Market outlook for hybrid PV power plants.

Further Talks of this session:

Speaker

Bruce Douglas
CEO
Global Renewables Alliance
Belgium

To Talk

Speaker

Carlos Perez Linkenheil
Head of Market Analysis Germany
AFRY Management Consulting
Germany

Video is not available.

Speaker

Ulrike Gunnemann
Head of Storage & Hybrids
BayWa r.e. AG
Germany

To Talk

Speaker

Rebecca McManus
Research Associate
Aurora Energy Research
Germany

To Talk

Speaker

Cecilie Kristiansen
Research Associate
Wood Mackenzie
United Kingdom

To Talk

Further Content
Intersolar Middle East Conference 2026
Cybersecurity in the Digital Energy Transition: Building Resilient Energy Systems

Wednesday, September 02, 2026, 01:15 pm

Intersolar Middle East Conference 2026 | Conference Program

premium account

Discover how advanced digital technologies are transforming solar operations. This session explores AI-driven analytics, IoT-enabled monitoring, and blockchain-based transparency to optimize performance, streamline maintenance, and enhance profitability. Learn how smart grids and data intelligence are shaping the next generation of efficient, resilient solar energy systems.

Intersolar Middle East Conference 2026
Welcome & Keynote: Policy, Regulation & Finance

Wednesday, September 02, 2026, 02:30 pm

Intersolar Middle East Conference 2026 | Conference Program

premium account

This session explores how effective policy frameworks, streamlined regulations, and innovative financing solutions can work together to accelerate the global expansion of solar energy. Bringing together perspectives from policymakers, investors, and industry leaders, it will examine how supportive regulatory environments reduce investment risk, attract private capital, and enable the successful development of solar and hybrid energy projects. Through best practices, emerging funding mechanisms, and real-world case studies, participants will gain practical insights into mobilizing capital, fostering investor confidence, and creating the conditions for sustainable growth across both established and emerging solar markets.

The smarter E South America Conferences 2026
The Social Side of Solar, Universal Access, ESG and job Creation

Thursday, August 27, 2026, 04:00 pm

The smarter E South America Conferences 2026 | Conference Program

premium account

Solar energy is playing an increasingly important role in social inclusion and sustainable development. Its expansion contributes to universal electricity access, the strengthening of ESG practices, and the generation of local jobs and income. This panel will discuss social impacts, public policies, and workforce training, promoting a discussion on economic growth with social and environmental responsibility.

Intersolar Middle East Conference 2026
Welcome Note & Opening Keynote: MIDDLE EAST ENERGY SECURITY and Transition REPORT: Preliminary Findings

Tuesday, September 01, 2026, 12:30 pm

Intersolar Middle East Conference 2026 | Conference Program

premium account

Discover how solar energy is driving a worldwide shift toward sustainable power. This keynote explores cutting-edge innovations, global adoption trends, and the policies accelerating change. Gain insights into how solar technology is transforming industries, empowering communities, and shaping a cleaner, more resilient energy future.

Intersolar Middle East Conference 2026
Keynote: Trans-Mediterranean Energy and Clean Tech Cooperation Initiative

Tuesday, September 01, 2026, 01:00 pm

Intersolar Middle East Conference 2026 | Conference Program

premium account

Industry experts share strategic insights on solar market growth, investment trends, and policy developments across MENA and emerging markets. Explore opportunities, challenges, and innovations shaping the next five years, and understand how regional dynamics influence the global transition to renewable energy.

You are using an outdated browser

The website cannot be viewed in this browser. Please open the website in an up-to-date browser such as Edge, Chrome, Firefox, or Safari.