How will the energy crisis change Europe? How will companies and households change their behavior during the upcoming winter months?
– Europe will undoubtedly face a very challenging period until it overcomes the energy crisis. Therefore, now more than ever, companies and households must adapt to the new situation. It is extremely important to evaluate one’s own energy resources and focus on maximizing energy efficiency. In this regard, we, as a leader in energy management and automation technologies, are ready to assist everyone in the best possible use of energy resources, which we do through our digital solutions that enhance efficiency and sustainability in construction, industries, data centers, and infrastructure.
It is important to emphasize that digitalization is the most significant driver of energy efficiency, starting from monitoring energy consumption and data analysis, which forms the basis for making informed decisions. The next step involves monitoring systems and solutions that enable automation. The primary goal is to reduce demand, or in other words, to decrease energy consumption in buildings, households, industrial facilities, and infrastructure. The fastest and most efficient way to save energy is achieved through the application of digital solutions.
How important will it be to invest in renewable energy sources?
– When it comes to combating the energy crisis, investments in renewable energy sources are extremely important. Such investments should be made in parallel with the establishment of comprehensive network monitoring, the application of predictive analytical tools, and the monitoring of demand (consumption) and supply (energy production) across all electrical networks to optimize and synchronize demand and supply while reducing peak loads.
Additionally, to manage distributed energy resources, which are primarily photovoltaic and wind power plants, we need flexible, smart solutions that can effectively manage the integration of such resources into the grid. I believe that electrification, for example, replacing gas boilers with heat pumps, along with smart technologies and renewable energy sources, is the best way to reduce our dependence on natural gas and the right direction towards achieving long-term sustainability and resilience in business.
What is the role of companies like Schneider Electric in all of this? How can you mitigate the effects of the crisis?
– Our position is unique because we are on both sides of the equation. On one hand, at Schneider Electric, we contribute through responsible behavior: constantly seeking potential savings and increasing efficiency in our own operations. For instance, we do this in our key headquarters: in our Smart Factory in Plovdiv, Bulgaria, and the Smart Distribution Center in Budapest, Hungary. The digital solutions I am talking about can be seen at these locations, and they bring positive effects that we report.
