EP 8: Why Battery Optimisation Is the Next Competitive Advantage for Independent Power Producers

Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) are transforming Europe’s electricity system, but simply owning a battery is no longer enough to maximize its value.

At Intersolar Europe, Aneri spoke with Marco Svetina, Founder and Chief Product Officer at BMZ Solar, about why Independent Power Producers (IPPs) need to think beyond hardware and focus on optimization, agility, and market access.

As Europe’s electricity markets become more dynamic, the real competitive advantage is no longer just battery capacity—it’s knowing how to use that capacity.

The hidden challenge for Independent Power Producers

According to Marco, one of the biggest barriers facing many IPPs isn’t technology—it’s access.

Large utilities have spent decades participating across multiple electricity markets, allowing them to optimize assets and respond to changing market conditions. Many newer market entrants simply don’t have the same level of access or experience.

Without the ability to participate across multiple revenue streams, battery owners risk leaving significant value on the table.

As battery storage becomes more widespread, understanding market participation will be just as important as selecting the right technology.

Optimization is about more than today’s revenue

A common question for battery owners is whether they should maximize short-term profits or preserve battery life for the future.

Marco argues that the answer isn’t necessarily choosing one over the other.

Instead, success depends on understanding how electricity markets evolve over time. The value of flexibility changes rapidly, and operators need to anticipate where opportunities will emerge rather than relying on a single revenue source.

This requires not only market knowledge, but also sophisticated forecasting and optimization tools that can respond to changing price signals.

Agility is becoming a critical asset

One of the most interesting insights from our conversation was Marco’s emphasis on agility.

Historically, energy assets were designed around long-term forecasts and relatively stable markets.

Today’s energy system looks very different.

As renewable generation increases and electricity markets become more dynamic, battery operators need the flexibility to adapt quickly. That means being able to move between different market opportunities, respond to regulatory changes, and optimise performance in real time.

Rather than committing to one market for the life of an asset, operators need the ability to pivot as conditions change.

Software is unlocking the full value of batteries

Battery storage is unique because it can respond almost instantaneously to changes in the electricity system.

But unlocking that value depends on intelligent software.

Marco highlighted the growing role of optimization platforms and artificial intelligence in helping operators determine where and when batteries should participate. These tools can analyze market conditions, automate decision-making, and maximize the value generated by a single asset.

In other words, the future of battery storage isn’t just about better batteries—it’s about smarter operation.

Final Thoughts

As Europe’s energy transition accelerates, battery storage will play an increasingly important role in balancing renewable energy and supporting grid stability.

But this conversation serves as an important reminder that success won’t be determined by hardware alone.

The next generation of competitive advantage will come from intelligent optimization, access to diverse electricity markets, and the agility to adapt as the energy landscape evolves.

For Independent Power Producers, that shift may prove just as important as the batteries themselves.

🎥 Watch the full interview to hear Marco Svetina explain why optimization, agility, and smarter market participation are becoming essential for battery storage owners in Europe’s rapidly evolving energy market.