In 2026, the demands on installers in photovoltaics and battery storage are changing faster than ever. While conventional PV systems are coming under increasing price pressure, commercial storage, intelligent energy management systems (EMS) and flexible storage solutions are growing strongly.
Intersolar 2026 in particular makes it clear: the market is moving away from pure solar installations – towards intelligent energy systems.
In this article, we present the most important trends, opportunities and technologies that installers and specialist contractors should know about in 2026.
1. Commercial storage is growing faster than the home storage market
The German market for commercial and industrial battery storage is currently growing significantly faster than conventional home storage. Particularly in demand are systems for:
- peak shaving
- self-consumption optimisation
- dynamic electricity tariffs
- charging infrastructure
- backup solutions
For installers, this means larger projects with higher margins.
2. Modular battery storage systems are becoming the standard
More and more customers are asking for flexible storage solutions that can be expanded later.
Particularly in demand:
- scalable high-voltage storage systems
- modular battery systems
- 40–140 kWh storage solutions
- containerised BESS
This makes it easier for installers to plan projects and tailor them individually.
3. EMS & intelligent control are becoming decisive
In 2026, a storage system on its own is no longer enough.
Intelligent energy management systems (EMS) control:
- charging times
- electricity prices
- PV generation
- e-mobility
- grid import
With commercial customers in particular, EMS is becoming the key selling point.
4. Battery storage + EV charging are being combined
The combination of battery storage and DC charging solutions will grow massively in 2026.
As a result, installers benefit from:
- larger projects
- additional sources of revenue
- greater customer loyalty
Business parks, logistics and industry in particular are increasingly relying on combined storage and charging infrastructure.
5. Containerised BESS solutions are gaining in importance
Container-based battery storage systems enable:
- fast installation
- high scalability
- industrial applications
- peak shaving
- grid services
Solutions from 500 kWh upwards for industry and commerce are particularly interesting.
6. Customers are asking more about cost-effectiveness than just capacity
In 2026, customers no longer simply buy “more kWh”.
What is becoming decisive:
- ROI
- electricity cost optimisation
- dynamic tariffs
- energy self-sufficiency
- backup function
Installers therefore need to take a more advisory approach.
7. Installers are looking for simple & reliable systems
A major topic at Intersolar 2026:
Installers want less complexity.
What is in demand:
- all-in-one systems
- pre-configured storage systems
- fast commissioning
- reliable support
- compatible EMS solutions
This is exactly where the greatest competitive advantages are currently emerging.
Conclusion
In 2026, the storage market is clearly moving towards:
- commercial storage
- intelligent EMS systems
- modular battery storage systems
- EV integration
- scalable BESS solutions
For installers, this means:
Those who embrace these developments early can secure long-term competitive advantages and deliver more profitable projects.
