Siemens has launched Gridscale X Flexibility Manager to empower distribution system operators (DSOs) to maximise the use of existing grid capacity and accelerate grid connections for distributed energy resources (DERs) and data centres in a flexible way.
DSOs continue to face the increasing challenges of grid congestion and capacity constraints. At the same time, electrification is seen as the most feasible way to achieve net zero energy systems, but it is held back by inadequate grid infrastructure. In a recent study, 74% of energy executives said that smart grids and grid software are crucial enablers for the energy transition. In distribution grids in particular, digital technologies are crucial to gain insights and visibility over the grid, so that grid operators can effectively monitor, predict, and manage the flow of electricity.
“Unlocking the potential of flexibility for grid planning and operations is a game-changer for DSOs navigating the energy transition,” said Sabine Erlinghagen, CEO of Siemens Grid Software. “With Gridscale X, utilities can maximise the use of existing infrastructure, accelerate renewable integration and data centre connections and make smarter investments to deliver a more resilient energy future. It’s not just about managing today’s grid but shaping tomorrow’s autonomous energy landscape.”
Gridscale X is a software platform that paves the way for autonomous grid management. It is part of Siemens Xcelerator, an open digital business platform. Gridscale X Flexibility Manager empowers operators to forecast potential grid congestion and proactively manage flexible resources. It complements traditional grid reinforcement efforts by unlocking existing network capacity and enhancing operational stability.
The software integrates with DSO systems to continuously monitor grid conditions and forecast potential overloads. When constraints are predicted, it identifies available flexibility options from distributed resources — such as electric vehicles, heat pumps, batteries, or distributed generation — and supports operators in selecting and activating the most effective measures via connected market or operator platforms to balance the grid. By using the software, DSOs can increase grid capacity utilisation by up to 20% and save up to 40% in grid investment costs by strategically leveraging flexibility.
Flexible management case study: Kärnten Netz (KNG)
With the rapid growth of distributed generation, the Austrian utility, KNG, is currently preparing to operate an increasingly complex and dynamic grid. By 2030, photovoltaic installed capacity in Carinthia (an Austrian state with 9,500 km2 and a population of 570,000 inhabitants) is expected to nearly double (+1.1GW), creating new challenges of congestion and voltage stability, particularly in rural valley areas with long distribution lines prone to voltage violations. At the same time, Austrian regulation is moving toward a market-based flexibility framework, requiring DSOs like KNG to explore new operational and digital capabilities. Anticipating this, KNG joined forces with Siemens to co-innovate a solution, culminating in the launch of Flexibility Manager.
“We are facing a new and increasingly complex regulatory framework, combined with massive challenges in system operations as we transition to a cleaner energy future,” says Robert Schmaranz, Head of Operations at KNG. “Collaborating with Siemens, we were able to address real network challenges while preparing for the upcoming market-based flexibility framework. The collaboration also gave us the opportunity to exchange experiences with other European DSOs, sharing best practices as we collectively shape the next phase of flexibility implementation.”
Gridscale X Flexibility Manager has been developed in close collaboration with other DSOs including Alliander, Areti, and Elvia.
