The Smart Climate Solution Expo: A Closer Look at Sector Coupling

The synthesis of solar power systems, PV-storage, electric vehicles and heat pumps open new avenues of commercial opportunities for installers and system providers. ‘The smarter E Europe 2024’ expo provides a platform showcasing the latest trends and innovations in sector coupling, integrating power, heat, and transportation sectors.

The power-production, storage and consumption entities form an efficient consortium when solar power systems, PV-storage, electric vehicles and heat pumps are amalgamated. Smooth communication among the various units is of utmost importance to ensure a seamless interaction among these components. The industry offers a wide choice ranging from PV systems to multifaceted inverters, and easily integrable, user-friendly, efficient and multi-purpose products. Such products will be display at The 'smarter E Europe' expo in 2024.

To set up a comprehensive energy system, it is necessary to maintain a seamless collaboration among the electrical, heating, and air conditioning trades. Creating an effective system from the individual components needs knowledge beyond that of a solar technician or an electrician. With an ever-increasing demand, new business opportunities are sprouting which need ed to be catered.

Optimizing Personal Demand and Reducing Grid Strain

In order to facilitate 24/7 renewable energy supply, the power system requires high levels of flexibility. Flexible small consumers with their home energy systems can make significant contributions by maintaining a balance between power production and consumption while optimizing their personal consumption cost-effectively. A Home Energy Management System (HEMS) is a crucial addition to ensure this. It aids in optimizing power consumption by controlling the operation of high-demand entities like electric cars or heat pumps. There are multiple HEMS available in the market, each varying in device compatibility and performance. As evaluated by Berg Insight, an estimated 5 million HEMS, up from the existing 950,000, could be installed by 2027 in Europe.

Variable Electric Rates: Meeting Demand with Supply

Variable electric rates present an additional way to better coordinate supply and demand. Consumers can regulate usage based on current electrical rates that vary with supply and demand. This way, devices like electric cars and heat pumps can run when the power supply is cheapest. The EU's electricity market reform stipulates that member nations must enforce energy providers to offer dynamic electricity tariffs to consumers. Poland for instance, has already implemented this regulation since 2023.

To switch to a variable electric rate, it is necessary to install a smart meter to gauge consumption at different times. How much money it saves will vary from person to person. A study conducted by r2b Energy consulting GmbH under optimal winter conditions, indicated up to 88% reduction in charging costs for electric cars.

Sector Coupling Theme of The smarter E Europe 2024

The smarter E Europe 2024, Europe's largest expo alliance for the energy industry, will showcase the latest trends and innovations in the sectors of PV-storage, electric mobility, and heat pumps. Over 2800 exhibitors will present their solutions and products for renewable energy in the power, heat, and transportation sectors across an area of 206,000 square meters. The expo, which will be attended by an expert audience of around 115,000 from across the globe, will take place from 19th to 21st June in Munich. The smarter E Europe encompasses the four trade fairs of Intersolar Europe, ees Europe, Power2Drive Europe, and EM-Power Europe.