The smarter E Europe Conference Opening - Flexibility Drives Change

A fully renewable energy system requires more than just expanding generation capacity - it demands intelligence, flexibility and seamless integration across the electricity, heat, and mobility sectors. The Conference Opening sets the stage for a high-level dialogue on how digitalization, storage solutions and sector coupling can ensure a reliable 24/7 renewable energy supply. Experts will discuss regulatory advancements, innovative business models and cross-industry as well as cross-sector synergies that pave the way forward. What has already been achieved - and what critical steps must follow to turn ambitious goals into reality?

Recording of Tuesday, May 06, 2025 | The smarter E Europe | Conference Program | Language: English | Duration: 100:55 .

Marianna Evenstein
TV & Event Presenter
Moderation

Markus Elsässer
CEO
Solar Promotion GmbH
Germany

Greg Jackson
CEO & Co-Founder
Octopus Energy Group
United Kingdom

Greg Jackson
CEO & Co-Founder
Octopus Energy Group
United Kingdom

Michael Villa
Executive Director
smartEn
Belgium

Julian Jansen
Vice-President
EASE - The European Association for Storage of Energy
Belgium

Chris Heron
Secretary General
E-Mobility Europe
Belgium

Walburga Hemetsberger
CEO
SolarPower Europe
Belgium

Bruce Douglas
CEO
Global Renewables Alliance
Belgium

Raphaël Héliot
Senior Policy Manager
E-Mobility Europe
Belgium

Christian Schorn
Director Asset Operation
TransnetBW GmbH
Germany

Michael Schmela
Executive Advisor
SolarPower Europe
Belgium

Florian Mayr
Partner
Strategy&
Germany

Marianna Evenstein
TV & Event Presenter
Moderation

Smarter E Europe 2025 Launches in Munich, Addressing Renewable Energy Challenges and Innovations Amidst Political Opposition

The Smarter E Europe Conferences in Munich emphasize the integration of electrification, energy storage, efficient grids, e-mobility, and energy management to advance renewable energy. Solar power is highlighted as a key driver for decarbonization across sectors such as heating and transportation. Markus Elsässer stresses the need to modernize market regulations to support the expansion of digital infrastructure, while also incorporating technologies like heat pumps and electric vehicles (EVs). With over 2,700 exhibitors and more than 100,000 trade visitors expected at this year’s event, the conference showcases technological advancements necessary for sustainable energy systems. Intelligent sector coupling strategies—including improvements in battery technology and innovations such as bidirectional charging in the mobility sector—are aimed at accelerating the global energy transition. Discussions also address grid management challenges, such as unmanaged EV charging during peak times, which can lead to curtailment costs that offset the economic benefits of renewable investments. The need for systemic changes and improved time management within grids is emphasized as essential for the transition to a more sustainable energy future.

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