The Oldenburg Energy Cluster OLEC e.V., the largest cross-technology energy network in north-west Germany, is celebrating its 20th anniversary. Since the idea was born at a lunch in 2004, initiated by the then Lord Mayor of Oldenburg, Dietmar Schütz, the network has developed into a key player in the energy transition and the promotion of innovation far beyond the borders of Oldenburg. Around 50 players from the OLEC network came together this Wednesday at the invitation of Lord Mayor Jürgen Krogmann in Oldenburg's town hall to celebrate the anniversary.

Oldenburg's Lord Mayor Jürgen Krogmann: ‘Oldenburg has an impressive number of people who shed light on the topic of energy from a wide variety of perspectives. The energy transition was an issue early on, but only gradually became the centre of attention. The energy network has remained vital to this day, continues to provide new impetus and is open to ideas from outside. The city of Oldenburg is behind OLEC and is happy to support this commitment. Networking creates synergies that are becoming ever stronger. Energy has a special significance for Oldenburg and the region - and this will only increase in the future.

Powerhouse North gives the region a modern image, strengthens the skilled labour base and the provision of public services. Sustainable energy is a key factor here, and OLEC has been a driving force right from the start. A strong tree has grown from a small seed, and together we are continuing to work on creating an entire forest. We look forward to many more years of successful collaboration and new impetus.’

Quote from Lower Saxony's Minister for the Environment, Energy and Climate Protection Christian Meyer: ‘The north-west has long since become the powerhouse of the energy transition - a vision that was still in its infancy 20 years ago. Back then, only 6% of the grid was powered by renewable energies, but today the figure in our region is an impressive 200%. The OLEC platform brings together all the key players here and is also a powerhouse of the hydrogen economy.

Companies are investing heavily in the region, which is predestined for hydrogen. With a pipeline leading to the north-west, 50 % capacity share, 80 % storage capacity and 50 % of the core pipelines through Lower Saxony, the infrastructure is ideally positioned. Oldenburg has developed into the solar capital and both the federal and state targets for solar expansion in Lower Saxony have been achieved. Storage technologies have been greatly expanded and are now affordable.

Particularly pleasing: grid fees are falling significantly in regions with a high proportion of renewable energies - an important and correct step, especially for the north-west. OLEC has always brought the region along with it through transparent communication and innovative approaches and has set standards as a pioneer and driver of innovation. The state government continues to support OLEC and stands firmly behind this network - a true pioneer of the energy transition.’

A success story for the north-west energy transformation
OLEC was founded with the vision of creating a strong network for the renewable energy sector. ‘OLEC has provided a platform that enables interdisciplinary collaboration and technology transfer between business, science and politics. This was still a pipe dream in 2004, but is now a significant locational advantage for the region,’ emphasised Roland Hentschel, who has headed OLEC as Chairman since the association was officially founded.

As a dialogue platform, OLEC supports the exchange between stakeholders at local, national and international level. The focus is on the further development of the energy system through the use of innovative renewable energy technologies.

‘Through its work, OLEC has made a significant contribution to positioning north-west Germany as a centre of innovation for energy and climate protection technologies and has also established itself internationally as an important partner, especially through close cooperation with our partners from the Netherlands,’ Hentschel continued.

Future-oriented goals
Looking to the future, OLEC wants to further expand its role as an operational network that creates concrete added value for its members in addition to networking and knowledge exchange. The aim is to accelerate the integration of renewable energies into the energy system of the future and to establish north-west Germany as a pioneer for climate-friendly technologies.

In doing so, the cluster can rely on the expertise and commitment of its members under the common vision: ‘Climate neutral. The north-west leads the way! Together we are boldly and interdisciplinarily shaping the energy system of the future. decarbonised. diversified. decentralised. digital.’

About OLEC
The Oldenburg Energy Cluster OLEC e.V. sees itself as an innovation incubator and platform for the networking of business, science and politics. With a cross-technology approach, the cluster promotes sustainable solutions for energy supply and contributes to the energy transition in Lower Saxony and beyond. With around 60 members, including companies, universities, local authorities and institutions, OLEC is driving forward the integration of renewable energies and the transformation of the energy system.