In a joint effort to enhance grid stability and reduce costs, transmission system operator Amprion and energy company E.ON have received approval from the Federal Network Agency (BNetzA) for the implementation of the world's first decentralized grid booster. This innovative concept involves connecting multiple smaller battery storage units in the distribution grid, marking a significant step towards achieving a climate-neutral energy system.
The collaboration between Amprion and E.ON, established in late 2020, aims to develop innovative operating resources for system stability. With the recent approval from BNetzA, Amprion CEO Hans Jürgen Brick expressed his delight, emphasizing that the decentralized grid booster will contribute to grid stability while reducing grid interventions and fees in Germany.
The decentralized grid boosters serve as large battery storage units that increase the utilization of the electricity grid. In the event of a disturbance in the transmission grid, these grid boosters swiftly react to counteract overloads and prevent consequential damage. Within seconds, the battery storage units provide power, eliminating the need for preventive redispatch and reducing congestion management costs.
What sets the concept of the decentralized grid booster apart is its integration of multiple smaller, modular battery storage systems at the distribution grid level. This approach not only lowers connection costs but also enhances the overall availability and flexibility of the storage system. The modular components can be deployed more quickly and have minimal environmental impact. The decentralized grid booster is projected to have a total capacity of around 250 megawatts, with the first system planned for implementation in Bavarian Swabia by the regional grid operator LEW Verteilnetz (LVN), a subsidiary of the E.ON Group.
Amprion, as one of Germany's transmission system operators, is responsible for a significant portion of the extra-high voltage grid that spans from the North Sea to the Alps. With a focus on grid stability and safety, Amprion plays a crucial role in paving the way for a climate-friendly energy system through grid expansion and maintenance. The cooperation between Amprion and E.ON signifies their commitment to optimizing network operations for the benefit of customers and the transition to a climate-neutral energy future.
As with any forward-looking project, the success and outcomes of the decentralized grid booster implementation will depend on various factors. E.ON SE, in alignment with the forward-looking statements in this press release, acknowledges the potential risks and uncertainties that could lead to differences between the estimated results and the actual future performance of the company.
Through their joint efforts, Amprion and E.ON demonstrate their dedication to advancing grid stability and promoting sustainable energy solutions. The decentralized grid booster represents a significant milestone in the pursuit of an efficient, reliable, and climate-friendly energy system.
