Photovoltaics overtakes coal: 2025 was the first year in which EU countries produced more electricity from solar energy than from lignite and hard coal. The growing share of renewable energies – above all from the sun and wind – is changing the structure of the electricity system. More feed-in and different load flows require solutions that coordinate grid capacity with the generation and demand of electricity more successfully. Hybrid PV systems can help provide flexibility and tap into market potential.
The solar industry is therefore shifting towards hybrid PV plants, i.e. the combination of PV and battery storage and/or wind power. This allows renewable electricity to be fed into the grid as needed, and in a way that supports the grid while maximizing yields. At the same time, multiple use can create efficiency effects, for example for surface areas and grid connection points, diversifying assets and boosting their profitability.
To do justice to the fact that these setups are particularly important for the energy system while being especially complex, The smarter E Europe has been increasingly focusing on hybrid PV installations.
Knowledge, orientation and practical tips for decision makers and practitioners
Hybrid power plants integrate multiple technologies, markets and regulatory aspects. This creates a wide variety of questions concerning all parts of the project value chain. The smarter E Europe bundles relevant know-how and brings together all players who are vital for the success of hybrid power plants.
In Munich: Join us as we Move Into a Future-Proof Energy World
The smarter E Europe, Europe’s largest alliance of exhibitions for the energy industry, brings together around 2,800 exhibitors and over 100,000 visitors. The event presents the latest solutions and products that will enable tomorrow’s integrated energy system – hybrid power plant are one of the key applications that show how a 24/7 renewable energy supply can become a reality. Go to exhibitor list
In 2026, The smarter E Europe conferences and the exhibition forums at the alliance of exhibitions will offer an extensive selection of presentations covering hybrid PV plants, that will help you gain knowledge, learn about best practices and develop solutions for hybrid energy projects.