The Future of Power Markets: What Lies Ahead for Batteries?
Mayur Andulkar
3 min read
The power markets are constantly evolving, reflecting shifts in technology, supply, demand, and regulatory frameworks. For battery operators and investors, understanding the future trajectory of these markets is essential for long-term planning and profitability. Let's take a closer look at how the energy markets are expected to develop over the next 2, 5, and even 20 years, and what this means for energy storage solutions like batteries.
In the short term (2-5 years), ancillary services such as Frequency Containment Reserve (FCR) and Automatic Frequency Restoration Reserve (AFRR) will remain important revenue streams for batteries. However, these markets are expected to reach saturation due to increasing competition as more battery and storage capacity enters the market. As a result, the potential for high revenues in these areas is likely to decline over time.
Instead, the focus is shifting toward wholesale markets, particularly intraday trading and, to a lesser extent, day-ahead trading. These markets offer increasing revenue potential, especially as the dynamics of renewable energy integration and price volatility continue to grow.
In the longer term (20+ years), ancillary services will still generate revenues, but their contribution to the overall revenue stack will diminish. Batteries will increasingly rely on wholesale trading opportunities to maximize returns. The driving force behind this trend is the interplay between opportunity costs and market spreads.
One of the main drivers of this shift is the growing supply of battery and storage capacity entering ancillary markets. Unlike traditional energy producers, batteries do not bid into these markets with marginal costs. Instead, they base their bids on opportunity costs, which depend on potential profits from other markets like intraday or day-ahead trading.
For instance, when wholesale market price spreads are large, the opportunity cost for a battery to participate in ancillary markets becomes very high. In such periods, batteries will place higher bids in ancillary markets, effectively pushing up the merit order and raising prices. This dynamic is reshaping the role and profitability of ancillary services.
Germany stands out as a highly developed and liquid power market, with batteries already playing an active role. Its intraday market, in particular, is one of the largest and most liquid in Europe, often serving as a hub for neighboring markets. This liquidity creates a wealth of opportunities for battery operators, especially in arbitrage trading and optimizing returns through continuous intraday trading.
However, Germany also has notable differences compared to other countries. Unlike markets with long-term contracted revenues, such as capacity markets, Germany relies entirely on merchant revenues. While this creates significant opportunities for agile and technologically advanced operators, it also increases exposure to market volatility.
Other European markets offer alternative revenue structures. For example:
Italy has auctions for long-term contracts, providing predictable income for battery operators.
Spain is planning similar auctions, signaling a shift toward hybrid revenue models.
Poland already has a functioning capacity market in place, ensuring stability for participants.
Germany's lack of a capacity market creates a more competitive environment where batteries must actively participate in power trading markets to secure revenues.
Despite the absence of long-term contracted revenues, Germany remains an attractive market for batteries for several reasons.
No Grid Fees: Batteries in Germany are exempt from paying grid fees, reducing operational costs and improving profitability.
Market Size and Liquidity: Germany's large power market inspires trust and confidence among investors and operators. The depth of the intraday market, in particular, provides significant trading opportunities.
Strategic Position: Germany's market often acts as a hub, connecting neighboring countries and creating additional opportunities for cross-border trading.
While challenges exist, such as heightened competition and reliance on merchant revenues, the advantages make Germany a highly lucrative market for batteries, provided operators can navigate its complexities.
As markets evolve, so too must the tools and strategies used by battery operators. The growing reliance on wholesale markets, coupled with the increasing complexity of trading, underscores the need for advanced technology solutions. Batteries will need to optimize their participation across multiple markets, from intraday trading to ancillary services, while carefully managing opportunity costs and market spreads.
At Re-Twin Energy, we understand the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for battery operators. Our solutions are designed to help navigate the complexities of evolving power markets, enabling operators to make data-driven decisions and maximize returns. By staying ahead of market trends and leveraging cutting-edge technology, we empower battery owners to thrive in a dynamic and competitive environment, ensuring they are prepared for the future of energy
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