The energy world is changing. A new distributed system encourages a more democratized and efficient usage of energy where power is removed from generation and the grid to the customer. In future, it’s the customer who will occupy the driver’s seat. This means that businesses will need to have evolved from how they currently operate in the following five areas.  

1. Convergence 

It will be difficult finding a way to bundle distributed energy resources and accompanying services into one customer-centric solution. 

2. Disruption 

The commoditization of energy and hardware will require the introduction of integrated energy and e-mobility services, as well as the gradual replacement of today's entire business model. 

3. Security 

The integration of distributed energy resources into grids will need to be secured, all while achieving a more reliable and stable grid operation. 

4. Speed 

To adapt to ever-changing consumer behavior, utilities and original equipment manufacturers will need to perform product and business model innovation at scale. 

5. Regulation 

Businesses will need to reduce risk by ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements. 
 

The European energy industry is progressing towards a subsidy-free market, giving more power to the end user. This means that numerous business models will have to shift from hardware sales to energy services, as there will be appetite to embrace this emerging market on an industrial, commercial and residential level. A good example can be seen in the rising number of PV system providers who generate recurring revenues by also supplying their customers with insights on their energy usage. 

The energy future resembles something quite different to before, with more sharing and caring than we’re used to.