Encavis AG, a wind and solar park operator based in Hamburg and listed on the MDAX of Deutsche Börse AG, has acquired a ready-to-build battery energy storage system (BESS) project in Hettstedt, Saxony-Anhalt. The project, which has a capacity of 12 megawatts and 24 megawatt hours, is based on lithium-ion technology and is expected to be connected to the grid in the first half of 2025. This acquisition marks a significant step for Encavis as it continues to expand its renewable energy portfolio.
Details on the Encavis AG battery storage project
The BESS in Hettstedt will optimize the efficiency of Encavis’s existing wind and solar parks by charging during periods of lower electricity prices and discharging when prices are higher. By participating in the day-ahead and intra-day markets, this strategy will not only enhance the capture rate of the renewable energy produced but also reduce the costs associated with balancing energy. Additionally, the system allows for the storage and redistribution of electricity across all of Encavis’s parks in Germany, making it a versatile and economically attractive solution, especially with the elimination of network charges for charging the battery in the country.
Also Read: First ever UK-Germany energy link construction enters next phase
Mario Schirru, CIO/COO of Encavis AG, expressed enthusiasm for this development, highlighting the increased flexibility the new battery system will bring to their renewable energy generation. This innovative technology will enable Encavis to generate additional revenue while serving its German portfolio more effectively. Encavis AG is a major player in the renewable energy sector, operating wind and solar farms across twelve European countries, with a total generation capacity exceeding 3.5 gigawatts. The company is also recognized for its strong environmental, social, and governance (ESG) performance, holding high ratings from leading ESG rating agencies.
The Project Team
Rolls-Royce Power Systems, the German subsidiary of Rolls-Royce Holdings, has been contracted to serve as the engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) contractor for a new battery energy storage system (BESS) in Germany. The company will supply its mtu EnergyPack QG storage system for the project. According to an earlier statement, the BESS is slated to be commissioned in the first quarter of 2025, marking a significant milestone in the ongoing energy transition.
Also Read: Meriaura Energy Clinches Agreement for Solar Thermal facility in Lübeck, Germany
The Blue Elephant Battery Storage facility
Another major battery storage facility in Germany is the Blue Elephant Energy GmbH (BEE), which begun mid-this year. The Hamburg-based solar and wind farm operator, commenced construction on its first battery storage facility in Germany. This facility, with a capacity of approximately 12 MW, is expected to become operational by the fourth quarter of 2024. Located in the municipality of Merseburg, the storage system is being installed by the German photovoltaic specialist Goldbeck Solar. The project is financially supported by Deutsche Kreditbank AG (DKB) and will be marketed by the Munich-based optimizer Entrix, demonstrating a collaborative effort to enhance energy flexibility in Germany.
Lars Löhle, Chief Commercial Officer at Entrix, expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration with Blue Elephant Energy, a prominent independent power producer (IPP). He highlighted how BEE’s leadership in the energy transition aligns perfectly with Entrix’s vision, underscoring the partnership as a testament to their market-leading position in Germany. Löhle emphasized that combining the expertise of both companies promises to yield exceptional long-term results, further solidifying their roles in the renewable energy sector.
Patrick Pokorny, Head of BESS at Goldbeck Solar, also commented on the project, noting the importance of this battery storage system in addressing grid congestion. He pointed out that the project represents a significant step toward expanding renewable energy capacity in Germany. Pokorny emphasized the value of working with BEE to realize this project, which contributes to the broader goal of enhancing the efficiency and reliability of the energy grid.
