Despite differing perspectives, many expert discussions revealed a remarkable degree of consensus on the key areas for action in the years ahead.

Accelerating and Streamlining Grid Connections

The growing demand for grid connections presents significant challenges for the industry. As demand is increasing much faster than available network capacity, discussions focused in particular on Flexible Connection Agreements (FCAs), the prioritization of grid connection requests, and the German government’s grid connection package.

One key takeaway emerged: transparent procedures, reliable data, and practical processes are essential to efficiently deliver new grid connections and support the transformation of the energy system.

Building Resilient and Future-Proof Energy Networks

Resilience, critical infrastructure protection (KRITIS), and risk management were also prominent topics. Participants discussed how energy networks can be better prepared for crisis situations and exceptional events, as well as what level of protection is both politically and economically appropriate and achievable.

The discussions highlighted that, alongside technical measures, effective regulatory frameworks and practical cost recovery mechanisms are essential prerequisites for developing resilient infrastructure.

Regulation as a Key Enabler of Investment and Transformation

Another major focus was the further development of the regulatory framework. Discussions emphasized that the challenges of the energy transition are fundamentally manageable. However, this requires investments that can be implemented quickly while remaining financially viable over the long term.

Without such investments, rising redispatch costs and limitations on the integration of new generation and consumption assets are likely. As a result, robust, practical, and legally sound solutions are needed. At the same time, it became evident that the industry is often developing new concepts more quickly than regulatory and European frameworks can adapt, particularly in the area of grid connection regulations.

Energy Storage as a Key Building Block of the Energy Transition

There was also broad agreement on the importance of energy storage. Grid operators, investors, and storage providers alike view storage technologies as a vital component of future energy systems. However, their integration must be aligned with the needs of the grid.

Dynamic network tariffs alone will not solve the existing challenges. Instead, a balanced mix of instruments is required, combining measures that can be implemented in the short to medium term and closely coordinated with developments in the grid connection framework.

Collaboration Remains the Key Success Factor

One theme ran through nearly every conversation and discussion: the energy transition can only succeed if grid operators, regulatory authorities, service providers, and market participants work even more closely together.

Treffpunkt Netze 2026 demonstrated that the industry is not only clearly identifying the challenges ahead but is also actively developing concrete solutions. The strong willingness to collaborate, combined with the high level of expertise across all stakeholder groups, shows that the necessary transformations can be successfully achieved together.

Our sincere thanks go to the BDEW, and especially to the organizing team, for delivering a successful event and facilitating valuable professional exchange.