Sometimes, major change begins in a small meeting room. A table, a few Post‑its, a briefing — and suddenly there's an idea on the table that is bigger than the preparation itself: the OpenEMS Association e.V.
An open platform that connects energy systems and prepares them for the future. An approach that fits Bertrandt perfectly. Dynamic. Sustainable. And above all: open.
OpenEMS is an open‑source energy management system. In short: a digital control center that intelligently manages energy storage systems, PV installations, and charging infrastructure — the operating system of the energy transition. Flexible. Transparent. Enhanced by a global community.
The major advantage: thanks to its open‑source approach and community‑driven development, OpenEMS can be flexibly expanded and adapted to different requirements. A strong building block for modern, digital energy‑management solutions.
OpenEMS became particularly exciting for us through a concrete project: in Mönsheim, a storage system made from second‑life batteries is currently being set up.
Batteries that were actually considered “at the end” are finding new use with us. After inspection and reconditioning, they are ready for their second round: reliable, resource‑conserving, and economically attractive. A real added value — both technically and ecologically.
The planned storage system at the Bertrandt site in Mönsheim is designed to enable peak shaving, among other things. This means that load peaks are deliberately reduced by having the storage system support high‑demand moments. This relieves the grid, reduces costs, and helps make energy flows more predictable and efficient. Especially in combination with a second‑life approach, this results in a solution that convincingly combines sustainability with technical benefit.
Initial interest quickly turned into real dialogue: we connected with a board member of the OpenEMS Association — and soon after decided to become a member.
For us, this is a strategic step: we don’t just want to be users. We want to connect within a strong network, gather impulses, and actively help shape the development of open energy‑management solutions.
Shortly after joining, a special opportunity arose: we were invited to host the general assembly and the OpenEMS Conference in Ehningen. A day full of conversations, new contacts, and inspiration. A space where ideas were not only presented, but pushed further. An experience that showed: when expertise, curiosity, and openness come together, progress happens.
