The energy landscape is transforming from centralised, large-scale power generation to a decentralised network of independent energy producers and consumers. This transition is driven by market deregulation, increased renewable energy and the departure from carbon-based fuels.
With many new players joining the established participants, the energy system is changing into a more heterogeneous structure in which new market participants are aiming to take advantage of the new business models offered by this trend. This means that there are new customer types and therefore new customer needs to be fulfilled in areas such as energy consumption, generation, aggregation, forecasting and trading. On the technology side, the increase in efficient and affordable small-scale power generation solutions – including renewable energy, combined heat and power (CHP), and storage solutions – reinforces this shift.
Siemens is addressing this trend by delivering customer-specific applications and services and meeting customer needs for e.g. energy efficiency, grid fee reduction, autonomy, resilience, reduced CO₂ emissions and much more. New opportunities also expose customers to increasing technical complexity and business risks. This has led to the creation of new business models that diverge from traditional investment structures.
The solution scope ranges from single bespoke projects to completely outsourcing the clients’ energy operations. Advanced business models such as rental and leasing contracts, performance contracting, and own-and-operate models – resulting in Energy as a Service due to the high degree of digitalisation – help reduce complexity and business and integration risks for our customers.
Siemens strives for technological leadership in fields of technology and innovation that are of overriding importance to the company. These Core Technologies are crucial to the long-term success of Siemens and its customers. Experts from the global research department of technology and the various businesses work together here, consolidating the company's R&D activities.