Recording of Thursday, June 25, 2026 | The smarter E Europe Exhibition Program 2026 | Languag English | Duration: 12:36 .
Julian Kretz from Next Kraftwerke GmbH emphasizes the importance of flexibility in energy markets at The smarter E Europe Exhibition Program 2026. Next Kraftwerke operates a Virtual Power Plant across five countries, managing around 15 gigawatts of renewable energy assets, primarily from solar power. Recent spikes in day-ahead power prices in Germany demonstrate the necessity for enhanced flexibility in energy management. The analysis includes significant events such as negative energy prices experienced by photovoltaic (PV) traders, signifying oversupply challenges and the financial risks involved. Many PV plants are adversely impacted by the loss of government subsidies, leading to reduced outputs and curtailed operations, which further diminishes their revenue. Strategies for curtailment, while necessary, must also consider optimal trading decisions influenced by subsidy landscapes. Cross-market optimization is crucial for maximizing asset value, enabling better integration of renewable energy sources, including innovative approaches such as structured products for risk management and co-location strategies. Efficient grid access and flexibility connection agreements remain critical to attract investments and enhance operational effectiveness in the renewable sector.
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Speaker
Julian Kretz
Head of Product Development and Management
Next Kraftwerke GmbH
As electrification and decentralisation reshape the power system, utilities and market actors are redefining how value is created and captured. This session explores how flexibility can be translated into viable business models and new revenue streams across the energy system. From demand-side flexibility and aggregation to digital platforms and dynamic pricing, discover how flexibility moves from pilot projects to scalable, profit-generating solutions-while supporting efficient and resilient grid operation.
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