Energy storage and grid flexibility are crucial for energy security, but they must be managed responsibly to avoid potential risks. If mismanaged or placed in the wrong hands, they can become a threat rather than a benefit. While many developers and investors focus only on price, the long-term impact of storage on the grid, such as interoperability, cybersecurity, and control of assets, must be a key consideration, said Jason Howlett, CEO of GivEnergy, at the conference “International Approach: Catalyzing Romania’s energy future”, organised by Energynomics in London.

“Grid flexibility is a very powerful tool, but in the wrong hands, it can become a weapon. One of the key ways we have differentiated ourselves, and something we have been discussing in the Romanian market for the past two or three years, is the question of who controls the asset after implementation. I still see many subsidized assets being deployed to the grid,” he said.

Howlett highlighted that many subsidized assets are being deployed without proper oversight, raising security concerns. He referred to a European Defense Association report discussing threats from deployed assets on the grid and stressed the responsibility that comes with energy storage solutions.

Additionally, he mentioned that regulatory frameworks, such as upcoming UK legislation in 2027, are lagging behind the pace of deployment. He also called on investors to assess the ethical implications of their investments in energy storage and avoid solutions that could harm grid stability in the future.

The conference “International Approach: Catalyzing Romania’s energy future” was organised by Energynomics in London with the support of our partners AJ Brand, Elektra Renewable Support, Adrem Asset Management, Enexus, Nofar Energy, Parapet, Wiren.