Pioneering: New hybrid power plant in Zerbst starts operations!

Pioneering: New hybrid power plant in Zerbst starts operations!

On November 12, 2025, a new hybrid power plant not far from Zerbst officially began operation. This impressive project, realized by the Norwegian company Statkraft, combines clean energy production through photovoltaics with modern battery storage. With a total investment of a whopping 45 million euros, the 41 hectare plant is the largest power plant of its kind in Germany and is expected to generate almost 50,000 megawatt hours of green electricity annually. This will be able to supply around 14,000 households with energy, underlining the company's plans for a sustainable energy future.

Essential to the success of the system is the battery storage, which temporarily stores excess solar power and releases it into the power grid as needed. This enables much more efficient use of solar-generated energy and is a step in the right direction to reduce the burden on the power grid. Meanwhile, the 73,000 solar modules in the solar park make a crucial contribution to sustainability.

A win for the community

Statkraft has not only invested in the technology, but also plans to pay the municipality of Zerbst a voluntary municipal tax of a maximum of 100,000 euros per year. These funds could be used for critical infrastructure projects, strengthening local economies and providing critical resources for the community.

Industry experts like Sönke Rogalla from the Fraunhofer Institute are convinced of the combination of solar energy and storage. He describes this development as a “dream team” that is not only environmentally friendly, but can also work cost-efficiently. Carsten Körnig, head of the Federal Solar Industry Association, emphasizes that small hybrid power plants are already commonplace in private homes and calls for this to also be promoted for large open-space photovoltaic systems. This could reduce installation costs and ease the burden on network expansion.

A look at the importance of technology

The commissioning of this hybrid power plant not only brings new technology to Zerbst, but also sets new standards for future projects. Industry representatives agree that the combination of solar energy and storage will shape the future of energy production. This development could be an essential step in driving the transition to more sustainable energy production.

With the official connection on November 12th and feed-in since October, the power plant not only meets technical requirements, but also sets an example for climate protection in Germany. It remains to be seen how such innovative models will spread in the coming period and what positive financial effects they will have for communities.