Innovating for a Sustainable Future

The energy sector is facing a paradigm shift: innovative projects and technologies are setting new standards and shaping the future of energy generation and utilisation sustainably and efficiently. From self-sufficient buildings that generate and store their own energy to revolutionary direct current factories, future-proof heat pumps and sustainable battery storage systems: We show how the pioneers of energy technology are shaping the world of tomorrow and which ground-breaking solutions are already a reality today.

Imagine if your home could generate and store its own energy all year round - completely without fossil fuels. Infener AG and OHS GmbH have developed a groundbreaking solution with EVRON ECORE. This all-in-one solution integrates state-of-the-art hydrogen technology, PV connections, heat pumps, electrolyzers, H2 storage, fuel cells, electric charging stations, and an energy management system in a compact design. This makes energy independence a reality - safe and efficient.

Photovoltaic systems could be much more efficient if they were to directly use the generated direct current without converting it into alternating current. That's exactly what the NExT Factory by Schaltbau does. This fully electrified factory utilizes direct current and efficiently connects solar cells, battery storage, and consumers. The NExT Factory is not only one of the first direct current factories worldwide but also produces 100% CO₂-neutral. A milestone that demonstrates how green technology can revolutionize our industry.

Batteries from electric vehicles do not have to end after their first life. The Aachen-based company Voltfang gives them a second chance. The Voltfang Outdoor 1.0 is an innovative second-life battery storage unit for outdoor use with a capacity of 130 kWh. Equipped with a bidirectional inverter, efficient climate control, integrated energy management, and plug-and-play grid connection, this storage unit is ideal for small businesses and retail chains. A solution that is not only sustainable but also demonstrates how existing resources can be optimally utilized.

Heat pumps are the future of heating technology. The Industrial **Line Air Cascade R32** by WATERKOTTE sets new standards. This heat pump uses air as a heat source and can be combined with up to ten outdoor units to meet a variety of requirements. Thanks to inverter technology, the output adjusts optimally to the heat demand, ensuring high efficiency and low operating costs. Even at extreme temperatures of -20 °C, the pump can still deliver flow temperatures of 45 °C. Additionally, it operates with the environmentally friendly refrigerant R32, making it particularly sustainable.