VERBUND and Fluence Launch Large-Scale BESS Projects

VERBUND has selected Fluence Energy GmbH, a subsidiary of Fluence Energy, Inc. (“Fluence”), a global market leader delivering intelligent energy storage, operational services, and asset optimization software, to build large-scale battery-based storage systems that will achieve a total output of over 92 MW and a storage capacity of 186 MWh.

These innovative energy storage solutions are designed to meet critical requirements of the electricity grid while also adhering to stringent noise protection regulations. The first project, a large battery storage facility in Weißenthurm-Kettig, Rhineland-Palatinate, will be implemented with a capacity of 50 MW and a storage capacity of 100 MWh. Another system with a capacity of 42.9 MW / 86.5 MWh is planned in Elsterberg-Coschütz, Saxony. Both projects benefit from a modular system approach, which is intended to help ensure improved performance and scalability.

With this initiative, VERBUND and Fluence are focusing on forward-looking technologies to promote the integration of renewable energy sources and strengthen grid security. The expansion of wind and solar energy leads to significant fluctuations in the electricity grid, which battery storage can help balance. Through grid-supporting services, battery storage is designed to secure the distribution network and aid in the integration of renewable energy sources. By injecting energy, battery storage aims to reduce costs associated with the use of upstream grid infrastructure and voltage conversion through substations. Furthermore, excess energy produced by renewables can be utilized in the balancing energy market or the intraday market.

With 110 MW / 130 MWh already in operational service across over a dozen locations, VERBUND is a significant player in the German battery storage market. The projects with Fluence bring VERBUND considerably closer to its goal of installing around 1 GW of storage capacity by 2030.

Expertise and experience in noise protection and cybersecurity

Fluence was selected due to its vast and global experience in large-scale battery storage and in-depth knowledge of the regulatory landscape and specific requirements in Germany. Fluence convinced VERBUND with its advanced noise protection features, including the submission of a comprehensive noise report. It also showcased robust cybersecurity measures that align with stringent system security standards.

Markus Meyer, Managing Director of Fluence Energy GmbH, commented:

“With projects totaling over 750 MW in construction or completed across Germany, Fluence is playing a key role in supporting a cost-efficient, reliable, and secure energy supply. The projects Weißenthurm-Kettig and Elsterberg-Coschütz mark another important step toward strengthening Germany’s energy infrastructure. With decades of experience deploying high-performance systems that meet strict technical and regulatory standards, Fluence is well-positioned to support Germany’s energy transition. We look forward to driving the future of energy storage in Germany together with such an innovative partner as VERBUND.”

Reliable leaders for energy storage in Germany

The German coalition government agreement and the recently published scenario plan of the German regulator reiterate the important role of energy storage for a secure and affordable energy system. Developing and deploying energy storage projects requires a deep understanding of applicable regulations around grid codes, permitting requirements on noise and fire safety, and regulation on cybersecurity. This is where Fluence, as a market leader in Germany, supports its customers with accelerating and de-risking their storage projects in Germany.

In this collaboration, VERBUND focuses on the operation of the facilities and the marketing of battery storage. As a reliable trading partner in all energy markets, VERBUND offers the opportunity to optimally utilize storage resources and contribute to a stable electricity grid. The specially developed trading algorithms ensure the intelligent placement of offers while considering opportunities across all markets.

“Reliable partners like VERBUND and Fluence are essential for the successful development and implementation of energy storage projects that meet the requirements of the new federal government and the Federal Network Agency. We are pleased to collaborate with Fluence as we collectively tackle the challenges of the energy transition in Germany,” explains Karl Potz, Head of Battery Storage Systems at VERBUND. “With our innovative trading algorithms, we can optimally market battery storage and thus make a significant contribution to a stable electricity grid. This partnership is another step towards a secure and affordable energy system in Germany.”