At the invitation of Bitkom, our colleague Dr. Baris Özalay participated as a speaker in the joint meeting of the Data Center Working Group and the Smart Grids Working Group, held at Equinix in Frankfurt on May 5, 2026.
The event focused on a key question of the energy transition:
How can data centers, as rapidly growing electricity consumers, be integrated into the energy system in a way that is resilient, grid-compatible, and supportive of overall system stability?
Data centers are increasingly evolving from pure energy consumers into active participants in the energy system. In the future, they can contribute to system stability through the provision of flexibility, the integration of storage solutions, and innovative grid connection concepts. This is precisely where E-Bridge’s consulting and analytical work comes in.
E-Bridge Insights
In his presentation, Dr. Baris Özalay addressed the following key topics:
- Challenges and solution approaches for connecting data centers to the grid
- Innovative connection and capacity concepts, in particular Flexible Connection Agreements (FCA)
- E-Bridge’s consulting services for project developers, investors, operators, and grid operators
Holistic Support for Data Center Projects
E-Bridge supports data center projects from initial concept to grid connection, covering all relevant project phases—from site and grid connection assessments, technical connection concepts, and regulatory classification to the development and negotiation of Flexible Connection Agreements (FCA).
The aim is to develop robust and practical solutions that meet both the requirements of project developers and the systemic needs of the energy system.
We also greatly appreciated the cross-industry exchange and the joint discussion on how to shape a resilient, sustainable, and competitive digital and energy landscape in Germany.


