SolarPower Europe has officially launched the Battery Storage Europe Platform, a major new initiative aimed at accelerating the business case and regulatory environment for battery storage across the European Union. The platform will advocate for the sector at EU level and promote battery storage as a cornerstone of the continent’s clean energy transition.

Appointed to lead the new initiative, Juhi Dion Sud, Head of the Battery Storage Europe Platform, said: “Battery storage is no longer optional – it is essential. Without urgent action, the EU risks stalling its energy transition. We are calling for a tenfold increase in battery storage by 2030. This is vital to sustain the rapid growth of solar and other renewables, and to ensure the EU’s energy security, resilience, and competitiveness.”

Currently, the EU has just over 50 GWh of battery energy storage systems (BESS). To remain on track for the 2030 renewable energy targets, this capacity must grow to between 500 and 780 GWh within five years.

The Battery Storage Europe Platform is set to fill a critical gap in the specific representation of battery storage companies at the EU level. It will facilitate engagement with policymakers and support the development of coherent trade, legislative and investment frameworks for battery storage manufacturing and deployment.

Launched with the support of strategic founding partners including Renewable Energy Insurance Broker, Statkraft, and SUNOTEC, the platform held its hybrid kick-off strategy day in Brussels, bringing together over 50 representatives from leading battery storage companies.

SolarPower Europe, already recognised as the leading EU voice for solar – the technology driving much of the demand for battery storage – will leverage its extensive network and market insight to ensure the platform's success. The initiative also builds on the success of SolarPower Europe’s European Market Outlook for Battery Storage, a key reference in the sector.

Walburga Hemetsberger, CEO of SolarPower Europe, commented: “Solar and storage are the perfect pair. As solar installations surge across Europe, battery storage must expand at the same pace. We are thrilled to welcome Juhi Dion Sud to lead this platform – she brings over two decades of legal and strategic experience, with a strong track record in EU and international trade policy.”

Membership of the Battery Storage Europe Platform is open to all members of SolarPower Europe. Strategic partnership opportunities are also available for organisations keen to play a leading role in shaping the future of battery storage in Europe.