Exide Technologies and Vrijopnaam Collaborate to Bolster Renewable Energy Storage in the Netherlands

Exide Technologies and Vrijopnaam have joined forces to implement an advanced energy storage system aimed at improving renewable energy access in the Netherlands. The project, based in Rijen, integrates Exide Technologies’ expertise in energy storage with Vrijopnaam’s solar energy production, creating a more efficient and flexible energy distribution model. As demand for sustainable energy increases, this collaboration highlights how technology and energy providers can meet the needs of consumers while supporting the country’s energy transition.

Founded in 2015, Vrijopnaam has established itself as a key player in renewable energy through its delivery of 100% solar electricity and CO2-compensated gas. Its innovative ‘Paneelopnaam’ concept allows customers to purchase individual solar panels from dedicated solar parks. Each panel has a capacity of 250 Wp and is owned for nine years. Customers benefit from guaranteed annual production of 250 kWh per panel, which is directly deducted from their electricity bills. The initiative not only helps consumers lower their energy expenses but also enables them to actively contribute to the growth of renewable energy.

In its effort to optimize its energy distribution and storage, Vrijopnaam selected Exide Technologies’ Customized Energy Systems (CES) to implement an advanced storage solution. The project focuses on integrating solar power into the existing grid while maintaining reliability during fluctuations in energy production. The system utilizes Exide’s Solition Mega Three, a 3.4 MWh liquid-cooled energy storage unit designed to regulate power usage and ensure a stable energy supply. With both ‘in-front-of-the-meter’ and ‘behind-the-meter’ functionalities, the solution provides flexibility for energy consumption and grid support, allowing customers to better manage their energy needs and reduce dependence on external supplies.

Commenting on the project, Bas Wijnen, founder and co-owner of Vrijopnaam, explained that the decision to collaborate with Customized Energy Systems was driven by their innovative energy storage capabilities, stating, “We chose Customized Energy Systems to be our installation partner for this project because, with the liquid-cooled energy storage system Solition Mega Three, they offered the most innovative solution.”

Jeroen van Hapert, Sales Director at CES, emphasized the strategic importance of the collaboration, saying, “Our partnership with Vrijopnaam has demonstrated how Customized Energy Systems’ innovative solutions, particularly in energy storage and grid management, can drive meaningful progress in the renewable energy sector. Together, we have overcome operational challenges, and Vrijopnaam and Dutch citizens are now able to benefit from this sustainability drive.”

This partnership serves as a blueprint for energy companies seeking to adapt to growing demands for renewable energy while ensuring sustainable access for consumers. By combining solar energy production and advanced storage technologies, the project offers a scalable model for future energy collaborations.