Strong, intelligent electricity grids are the prerequisite for safely and sustainably integrating a growing number of decentralized generators and new electrified consumers into our supply system. The need for grid expansion and reinforcement at all voltage levels is immense and work has already begun. Around 450 billion euros are to be invested in grid expansion by 2045. High-performance equipment, innovative plant technology and experienced specialist companies for grid expansion will make the electricity infrastructure fit for the future.

The power supply is no longer a one-way street, but a dynamic system in which feed-in and consumption must be constantly monitored and coordinated. High-resolution status data from the operating equipment and house connections, supplemented by real-time information on feed-in and consumption, create transparency for grid operation and enable demand-oriented planning of the infrastructure. Sophisticated regulation and control technology ensures stable processes from extra-high voltage to the local grid.

In the smart grid, all operating and planning processes are based on the continuous exchange of data between networked objects and players. Information flows together in the digital twin, grid statuses are visualized and scenarios are examined. AI helps to analyze increasing amounts of data faster and more precisely and to automate operating processes. High-end security solutions for IT and OT ensure the necessary security in critical infrastructures.

With their ability to absorb electricity when it is abundantly available and release it when it is needed, electricity storage systems are among the key technologies in the smart grid. They smooth load peaks, optimize electricity procurement and marketing and provide balancing energy for the grids, either alone or in combination. However, storage systems are increasingly being used, not only on the market and in energy optimization for prosumers, but also in the distribution grid itself in order to stabilize the grids and better integrate renewable energies into the system. Today, different storage technologies make it possible to optimize costs and the carbon footprint.

The future of mobility is electric. Whether in private transport, public transport, freight transport or even shipping - charging solutions for climate-neutral driving are increasingly becoming an integral part of electricity grids that need to be installed, operated and integrated into the system. When integrated into intelligent energy management systems, the charging infrastructure can not only be operated and controlled in a grid-compatible manner, but can also actively contribute to grid stability as an interface to the vehicle battery.

The heat supply is to become climate-neutral. This means that electricity-based heating technologies such as heat pumps of various sizes, electrode boilers and CHP systems are also coming into focus in the heating sector - and must be integrated into the electricity grids. Intelligent control technologies and operating modes, that are based on the availability of renewable electricity make this task easier and at the same time provide valuable flexibility for the grid.