N-ERGIE Netz GmbH awards contract: MaxSolar to build large-scale battery storage facility to support the grid

N-ERGIE Netz GmbH has become one of the first distribution system operators in Germany to put the operation of a large-scale grid-connected battery storage facility out to tender – and has now awarded the contract: infrastructure developer MaxSolar will build the first grid-connected storage facility in N-ERGIE’s network area in Ansbach. The Traunstein-based company emerged victorious from the tender process, which attracted more than 20 bidders.

In the immediate vicinity of the refurbished and largest substation operated by N-ERGIE Netz GmbH in the Winterschneidbach district of Ansbach, a large-scale battery storage facility is being built with a charging and discharging capacity of 20 megawatts (MW) and a total capacity of 100 megawatt-hours (MWh). Construction of what is currently the largest grid-connected battery storage facility in Bavaria is set to begin as early as the second half of the year.

“Pioneering the development of a practical storage infrastructure”

Grid-friendly battery storage will increase the grid’s capacity to absorb renewable energy in the long term. The operator undertakes to align the charging and discharging process with the needs of the electricity distribution network – in contrast to existing or planned storage facilities, whose operation is guided solely by price trends on the electricity market and can therefore place an additional strain on the grids. 

“Battery storage systems – provided they are operated in a way that benefits the grid – will be a key enabler of an efficient and successful energy transition, particularly in regions with high surpluses from renewable energy generation. In our grid, which is heavily influenced by photovoltaics, they will help to smooth out midday peaks, whilst we continue to significantly expand the grid in parallel,” explains Kerstin Fröhlich, Managing Director of N-ERGIE Netz GmbH. “Operating battery storage systems in a grid-friendly manner is a necessary and worthwhile compromise. We are confident that, together with MaxSolar, we will create a win-win situation that paves the way for the development of a sensible storage infrastructure.” 

Christoph Strasser, CEO of MaxSolar, is also convinced of the concept of grid-friendly battery storage: “Storage systems are the backbone of a resilient energy supply and are indispensable given the volatility of renewable electricity generation. Their key role must no longer be called into question – not only in light of the climate crisis, but also with regard to energy independence and predictability in times of ongoing geopolitical tensions. Grid-friendly driving enables more efficient use of the grids and thereby reduces economic costs.” 

Overcoming the challenges of the energy transition together 

The new storage facility is intended to alleviate a local grid bottleneck. The project has been agreed with the relevant federal authority, the Federal Network Agency.

Building on the experience gained from the pilot project in Winterschneidbach, N-ERGIE Netz GmbH is now looking into further tenders for the operation of grid-supporting battery storage systems.

About MaxSolar GmbH:
As a comprehensive infrastructure developer and operator, MaxSolar, founded in 2009 and headquartered in Traunstein, covers the entire value chain of the new energy industry. With renewable energies, flexible storage solutions and regional heating and mobility concepts, MaxSolar strengthens the resilience of supply and competitiveness of industrial and technology companies as well as local authorities.
MaxSolar also offers power purchase agreements (PPAs) for a long-term and predictable supply of green electricity. With a project pipeline of 6.1 gigawatts and six locations in Germany, MaxSolar is active both regionally and nationally.
www.maxsolar.com