Annual event of the Energy Efficiency and Climate Protection Networks Initiative

On 13 December 2024, the annual event of the Energy Efficiency and Climate Protection Networks Initiative took place in Berlin under the motto '10 years of corporate networks - pioneers and reliable companions in the transformation'. The event brought together industry representatives, policy makers and experts to celebrate the Initiative's achievements and discuss strategies for a sustainable and energy-efficient future.

The initiative promotes collaboration between companies to increase energy efficiency and drive climate action. By sharing knowledge and developing joint solutions, participants benefit from innovative approaches, scalable concepts and valuable synergies. The networks are important drivers of change and support companies in overcoming the challenges of the energy transition.

The ZVEI supports the initiative as an effective tool to promote industrial innovation and the transition to sustainable energy systems. Especially in the electrical and digital industry, networks are a crucial lever for developing practical solutions and promoting best practices. We see this as a great opportunity to achieve climate goals while securing the competitiveness of German industry.

A key topic of the event was the presentation by Hartwig Stammberger (Eaton) and Dominik Maihöfner (ZVEI) entitled 'The DC factory: Why the factory of the future runs on direct current'. We showed how DC grids can provide the basis for a more efficient and sustainable industry. Another presentation focused on how artificial intelligence can help make operational energy systems more flexible and accelerate transformation in companies.

It was clear from the discussions that best practice is a key driver for innovative solutions. Success stories from existing networks provide inspiration and guidance for companies looking to achieve their sustainability goals. The Open Direct Current Alliance (ODCA) has already realised pioneering projects in this area and demonstrated how collaboration can drive the energy transition forward.