Solarplaza Summit | Asset Management Europe

Tuesday 15 October 2024

Program Day 1


08:30

Registration & Welcome Coffee

45 min.

Get yourself checked in, collect your badge, and grab some coffee!

Session Topics:

09:00

Welcome Remarks by Chairperson

presentation

15 min.

Janine Mehner

JanineMehner

Session Topics:

Session 1

The Present State and Future of the European Solar Market

09:15

Getting Towards Carbon Neutrality: Leveraging Solar Energy in Europe's Decarbonization Journey

presentation

30 min.

Rob Andrews

Session Topics:

09:45

Analyst Insights: State of the European Market

presentation

30 min.

An overview of the key numbers and statistics of the European solar market, with valuable data-driven insights into the continued development of key markets and the emergence of new rising stars. Which segments and technologies are driving market growth in European solar? The expert analyst on stage will share insights into this and much more. 

Cormac Gilligan

S&P Global Commodity Insights

Session Topics:

10:15

Morning Networking Break

Session Topics:

Session 2A

Tech Trends in Asset Management

10:50

New Responsibilities for Asset Managers - What You Need to Know

panel

40 min.

Join our discussion on the changing role of asset managers in advancing towards a smarter energy society. Explore how emerging trends, particularly digital innovation, are shaping daily tasks. Gain insights into how asset managers drive sustainability and adapt to the evolving energy landscape, including the importance of knowledge in energy trading and AI.

moderator

Edwin Koot

Solarplaza

Catarina Maia

NextEnergy Capital

Guy de Macedo

meteocontrol

Valentina Scaglione

Econergy

Marta Valien

Foresight Group

Session Topics:

11:30

ESG: Exploring the Role of Asset Management in Building a Sustainable and Equitable Future

panel

40 min.

Discover how managers are incorporating ESG considerations, moving beyond conventional metrics to embrace sustainability, social impact, and governance standards. Gain valuable insights into aligning solar projects with broader societal goals while implementing strong governance practices.

moderator

Letícia Bueno

Sustainable Capital Group

Neil Copeman

WiseEnergy

Esther Fombellida Ruiz

Lightsource bp

Thilo Kinkel

DMEGC

Session Topics:

Session 2B

Unleashing AI: Workshop

10:50

Fact-checking the Impact of AI on O&M

presentation

20 min.

Busting the myth and hype and making inventory of the practical present-day uses of AI in operations & maintenance. Get real-life examples of how artificial intelligence is already being applied in creating smarter O&M practices and strategies.

David Moser

Eurac Research

Session Topics:

11:10

AI-driven Innovations in Asset Management

60 min.

Workshop

Join us for a dynamic workshop focusing on the integration of AI technology for optimizing Operations and Maintenance (O&M) and Asset Management in the solar industry.

Govinda Upadhyay

SmartHelio

Pramod Bangalore

Power Factors

Session Topics:

12:10

Lunch Networking Break

Powered by

Session Topics:

Session 3A

New Dynamics in O&M

13:40

Over & Underperforming Assets - Optimized Maintenance Strategies

panel

40 min.

This panel will explore critical factors influencing solar underperformance, such as, among others, soiling and vegetation management, which hinder return on investment. Discover trends in servicing, O&M best practices, and performance modeling. Additionally, learn how effective vegetation management around your solar plant can optimize energy production and foster biodiversity conservation, ensuring sustainability.

moderator

Jeff Ressler

Clean Power Research

Nicole Neumann

3E

Rhone Resch

Solarlytics

Jörn Carstensen

Greentech Energy

Session Topics:

14:20

O&M Automation: The Rise of Robots

panel

40 min.

Extreme weather events, labor shortages, and operational challenges are uniquely pressuring O&M providers. With performance demands rising, there's a clear need for technology solutions to refine the overall O&M toolkit. AI, data science, and technological breakthroughs are essential for driving long-term efficiencies in operating clean energy assets nationwide. Discover the changing face of O&M with the rise of robotics. Gain insights into how these technologies impact ROI and operational costs compared to non-robotic methods, as well as the need for and challenges of integrating these diverse technologies into a single plant seamlessly.

moderator

Shaheer Hussam

Aetlan

Rob Andrews

Will Hitchcock

Above Surveying

Magdalena Lipowska

Heyka

Session Topics:

Session 3B

Securing Revenue Streams

13:40

Financial Asset Performance Monitoring and Optimization

panel

40 min.

Join us in this session to learn how continuous monitoring can aid with identifying underperforming assets and uncovering hidden losses. Gain insights on strategies for financial optimization, including re-financing, re-structuring, and cost forecasting. Explore the impact of regulatory changes and how to enhance financial health through PPAs.

moderator

Jan Krcmar

Czech Solar Association (Solární Asociace)

Antonio Domínguez

Quintas Analytics

Niklas Will

Encavis

Maite Sanchez

Nuveen

Andreas Ditlev Duckert

Obton

Session Topics:

14:20

Mergers & Acquisitions: Navigating the European Field

panel

40 min.

Participate in this panel discussion for insights into the most recent trends in M&A. Delve into topics such as technical due diligence, market trends, legal and contractual considerations, and ESG factors. Gain valuable knowledge and expertise from industry experts that will help you make informed decisions in today's dynamic business landscape.

moderator

Rebecca McManus

Aurora Energy Research

Pietro Radoia

BloombergNEF

Luca Matrone

Intesa Sanpaolo

Antoni Beltran

Uniper Renewables

Session Topics:

15:00

Afternoon Networking Break

Session Topics:

Session 4A

O&M: Practical Examples of Operational Success

15:40

The Hidden Risks of PV Systems: Real Savings or Rather Deferred CAPEX?

presentation

15 min.

Investing in photovoltaic (PV) assets demands attention to detail to ensure peak performance and maximize financial returns. Success hinges on small components and their proper selection, assembly, and maintenance, not just on main hardware.

Discover through a case study how overlooked risks in PV connectors, from planning to operation, can impact performance and finances.

Attend our panel to learn strategies for mitigating performance degradation and safeguarding your PV investment's financial future from start to finish.

Andrea Viaro

Stäubli

Session Topics:

15:55

Cybersecurity Unplugged: Practical actions to meet new European cybersecurity regulations

presentation

15 min.

Asset owners have to comply with new European NIS2 cybersecurity directives, including the legal application in each EU country, which comes into effect in October 2024.  We will clarify the general requirements of this directive and how it impacts renewable portfolios.  We will also discuss clear and practical steps that asset owners can take to comply.

Eugene Cora

Ardexa

Brian Riley

Ardexa

Session Topics:

16:10

O&M Challenges for C&I Projects

panel

40 min.

The experts on this panel will discuss optimizing installation costs and ensuring quality assurance, while also discussing options like integrating EV charging infrastructure into a smart commercial energy ecosystem. We'll cover managing system failures, navigating diverse ownership structures, and deciding on in-house versus outsourced O&M.

moderator

Dr. Robin Hirschl

PV-Invest

Hannes Eichner

IKEA

Ingram Eusch

Ingram GreenEnergy Gmbh

Ariel Toron

enSights

Bernhard Schuetz

Starvert Services

Session Topics:

16:50

Solar Insurance Updates - How Can you Insure your Solar Assets?

panel

40 min.

By participating in this session, solar industry professionals can pick up critical knowledge on the evolving landscape of solar insurances. Learn about strategies that help you manage rising costs and prepare for extreme weather events, ensuring the continued financial viability of your projects. Gain insights into safeguarding assets and implementing robust risk management practices. And learn about the changes and trends in the insurance space, which has reached a critical and complex phase.

moderator

Christian Boll

SECURE GREEN

Javier Rubio Abellán

Aukera Energy

Peder Ledgaard

RiskPoint

Laurits Jacobsen

Blue Elephant Energy GmbH

Session Topics:

Session 4B

Opening up: Sharing Experiences and Lessons Learned

15:40

Energy Trading and Its Operational Implications

70 min.

Workshop

This focused 1-hour workshop, centered on energy trading and hedging, will feature a mix of presentations, open discussion, and plenty of opportunities for Q&A and informal sparring. The ultimate goal of the session is to ensure comprehensive coverage of all aspects of energy trading and hedging, so that the 35-40 attendees can walk away with their most burning questions answered. With a heavy emphasis on practical examples from market leaders, this intimate session will allow attendees to gain specific and actionable insights and engage with the speakers.

Jan Willem Zwang

Stratergy

Session Topics:

16:50

Solar Fails Session

40 min.

Join us for our "Epic Fails" session at the conference, where we'll take an honest, introspective journey into all the unfortunate (and sometimes hilarious) mishaps of the energy world. From projects that fizzled out to plans that took unexpected detours, we'll share what didn't quite pan out—and why that's okay!

And hey, since it's at the end of the day, drinks are just a few minutes away—so let's toast to laughter and lessons learned! Make sure to double-check those NDAs before joining in on the fun!

moderator

Dee Yon Chng

Solarplaza

Inés Monroy

Social License Energy

Jan-Phillip Kock

Encavis

Kim Keats Martínez

EKON

Session Topics:

Session 4C

DEIA in Solar

15:40

Workforce Development: Bridging Skilled Labor Gaps and Advancing Diversity, Equity, Accessibility and Inclusion in the Solar Industry

70 min.

Workshop

Discover how prioritizing diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) fuels innovation and sustainable growth in the solar industry. Join us for an interactive session in which we'll explore practical strategies for creating an inclusive workplace culture, breaking down barriers, and maximizing opportunities for all. Don't miss this chance to empower your organization and contribute to a more vibrant and equitable solar industry.

Christine Lins

GWNET (Global Women’s Network for the Energy Transition)

Carolina Nester

Sonnedix

Inés Monroy

Social License Energy

Zuzana Stehlikova

SOLEK Group

Session Topics:

Session 5

Closing Panel

17:30

Future-proofing the End-of-life Phase of Your Solar Assets - Recycling, Revamping and Repowering

panel

55 min.

The closing panel discussion of day 1 is focused on exploring the future of aging assets, covering topics such as repairs beyond warranty, recycling, revamping, and repowering business models, along with lessons learned from real-world cases. Dive into practical insights and strategies for managing assets that are reaching the critical end-of-life stage. As a significant part of Europe’s solar fleet is reaching a respectable maturity, this discussion has become one of paramount importance

moderator

Carolina Nester

Sonnedix

Tomaso Charlemont

BayWa r.e.

Karsten Klug

Inverter Service Group

Jan-Philipp Mai

Solar Materials

Francesco Palmieri

EF Solare Italia

Session Topics:

18:25

Closing Remarks

presentation

10 min.

Janine Mehner

JanineMehner

Session Topics:

18:35

Short Networking Drinks

Session Topics:
19:00

Networking Event + Party

The Networking Event and Party will be held in Backstage Restaurant, a 2-minute stroll from the O2 universum.

Session Topics:

Wednesday 16 October 2024

Program Day 2


08:50

Welcome Remarks

presentation

20 min.

Janine Mehner

JanineMehner

Session Topics:

Session 6

Future Proofing the Grid

09:10

Grid Congestion, Curtailment Costs, and the Role of Storage: Where Is Our Energy Infrastructure Headed?

panel

50 min.

Engage your fellow attendees and the experts on stage as we discuss the grid-related challenges we’re facing all around Europe, with a specific focus on mitigating curtailment costs. We'll delve into solutions through grid modernization, energy storage, and smart technologies tailored to the European context. Explore the significance of enhanced forecasting and flexible energy management systems in aligning production with demand, paving the way for a resilient and efficient energy landscape in Europe.

moderator

Eva Zimmermann

Aurora Energy Research

Berto Martins

EDP Renewables

Heiner Breuer

Obton

Stefan Müller

Enerparc AG

Anton Tijdink

TenneT

Moritz Rolf

Sungrow

Session Topics:

Session 7A

Storage Integration

10:00

BESS Asset Management: Different Perspectives on Storage Costs and Technologies

panel

40 min.

We will explore diverse viewpoints, financial dynamics, and operational responsibilities in the storage sector through case study examples. Don't miss this opportunity to delve into the complexities of storage management from operational and maintenance perspectives.

moderator

Jan Fousek

Association for Energy Storage AKU-BAT CZ

Hendrik Zülow

TEMAKO GmbH

Joshua Murphy

Econergy

Carmen Kompatscher

Fluence

Session Topics:

10:40

Implications of Storage in Solar Investment

panel

40 min.

Be sure to join our interactive panel as we zoom in on the intricacies of energy storage for developers and asset managers. Our expert speakers will address project development considerations including warranty risks and revenue simulation. We'll also discuss the complexity of storage business cases and examine the challenges of adjusting operations teams to manage storage assets in dynamic wholesale markets, where trading decisions are pivotal for investor returns.

moderator

Chris Bryan

Apricum

Dr. Robin Hirschl

PV-Invest

Isabelle Bélanger

Coup de Vent

Jakub Kupcu

Claritas Investments BV

Session Topics:

Session 7B

PV & BESS Case Studies

10:00

Using Predictive Analytics to Identify Energy Storage Performance and Safety Concerns

presentation

20 min.

We’ll explore how data analytics tools can help identify and solve hidden problems in storage systems, including undetected battery cell defects, chronic low availability, and inaccurate state-of-charge readings. Learn effective strategies to minimize maintenance, control costs, and boost revenue, all while optimizing the performance and reliability of your batteries.

Dr. Kai-Philipp Kairies

Accure Battery Intelligence

Session Topics:

10:20

Revenue Optimization in the Electricity and Ancillary Services Market

presentation

20 min.

In this presentation we will demonstrate how to reduce the cannibalization effect by tapping into additional revenue streams from PV power plants across multiple energy and power markets (AnS). We will also focus on optimizing the technical design and layout of PVPPs with energy markets in mind. Additionally, we will explore how hybridizing PVPPs with batteries can further enhance performance and profitability.

Georg Hotar

Photon Energy

Session Topics:

11:20

Morning Networking Break

Session Topics:

Session 8A

Hybrid

12:00

Capitalizing on Hybrid Assets

panel

40 min.

Explore the opportunities and challenges presented by hybrid energy systems in asset management. Hybrid can mean many things: solar + storage, solar +wind, solar + wind + storage, solar + hydrogen… But we know it means one thing for sure: added complexity. The experts on stage will share practical know-how on how to deal with this complexity and get the most yield and synergy out of co-locating and combining renewable technologies.

moderator

Miguel Lopes

McKinsey & Company

Hein Oomen

ENGIE

Vicente Payá Alamar

Circle Energy

Session Topics:

Session 8B

Focus Session - Project Management

12:00

From EPC to Operation - Driving Project Success

panel

40 min.

Join this session to explore how improved communication among project stakeholders, from EPCs to Asset Managers, can enhance project operations. Discover the vital role of Asset Managers in the EPC and development phases, driving better project management, risk mitigation, and ensuring proper allocation of funds for O&M. Gain practical insights into fostering collaboration and maximizing project efficiency through streamlined communication strategies. Don't miss out on unlocking the potential of better stakeholder communication for project success.

moderator

Wojtek Swietochowski

ABO Energy

Matthew Fosker

Octopus Energy Generation

Stratos Theodorou

WiseEnergy

Stanislas van der Vaeren

Sitemark

Session Topics:

12:40

Lunch Networking Break

Session Topics:

Session 9

Carbon Neutrality

14:10

The Future of Power-to-X

panel

40 min.

In this session, we'll explore the versatility of power-to-X technologies, focusing on power-to-heat, power-to-mobility, and power-to-hydrogen. We'll discuss their role in converting surplus renewable energy into usable forms and their implications for decarbonization. Join us to delve into the opportunities and challenges of utilizing renewable power through power-to-X pathways.

moderator

Pritil Gunjan

Guidehouse Insights

Christian Pho Duc

Smartenergy

Maria Trinidad Navarro

Groenvermogennl

Session Topics:

14:50

The role of Innovative Grid Technologies in Decarbonising Europe's Energy Grid

presentation

20 min.

As Europe advances toward its energy transition goals, the need for substantial power grid expansion becomes critical. By 2040, approximately 2,000 GW of renewable energy capacity will need to be integrated into the grid. This will require transmission networks to expand by 20-50% and distribution networks by 20-65%. Innovative Grid Technologies (IGTs) play a pivotal role in enabling this growth. This presentation will explore how IGTs can increase grid capacity by up to 40%, reduce conventional grid expansion costs by 35%, and accelerate deployment timelines by several years. However, various regulatory, financial, and operational barriers impede widespread adoption of these technologies. This session will address these challenges and provide insights into the necessary policy adjustments and incentive structures required to overcome these hurdles, ensuring Europe’s power grid is prepared for a decarbonized future.

Ewan Ramsey

CurrENT

Session Topics:

15:10

Closing Remarks

presentation

10 min.

Janine Mehner

JanineMehner

Session Topics:

15:20

Closing Drinks

Session Topics:

Need any help?

We got you. Send out an email to our team and we are here to help.

Nicola Belafatti
Project Manager

For practical questions regarding our activities:

[email protected]

Tor Jörgensen
Business Developer

For practical questions regarding our activities:

[email protected]

Audrey Wolff
Project Coordinator

For practical questions regarding our activities:

[email protected]