Interoperability: a key aspect of the AES

HARTING is playing a vital role in the vision of the All Electric Society, creating nothing less than the link to a more sustainable future. Our innovative connectivity solutions enable the interaction between electrification, digitalisation and decarbonisation. We are promoting the integration of renewable energies and boosting the efficiency of energy supplies. In this context, HARTING is engaging closely with partners from various sectors to overcome challenges in networks and ensure genuine interoperability.

In our interview, Jörg Scheer explains why we at HARTING are tackling these tasks with a good measure of confidence.

Jörg Scheer: The All Electric Society is of decisive importance to HARTING, as it serves as the technological key to a sustainable future. The electrification of society not only opens up new business opportunities, but also makes active contributions to environmental protection. Providing our connectivity solutions, are we supporting innovative strengths in the sector and meeting the demands of an increasingly electrified world. HARTING is concentrating on three central elements: Electrification, digitalisation and automation – and always with the aim of ensuring that these elements contribute to decarbonisation. This combination is reflected in our product portfolio and is part and parcel of our DNA and our vision.

Jörg Scheer: Our product portfolio comprises connectors and cable systems that are essential for renewable energies, particularly in wind power and hydrogen technology scenarios. With our solutions, we promote efficient energy conversion and transmission so that the green energy generated can be utilised smoothly and seamlessly. Innovative designs reduce installation and maintenance costs.

Jörg Scheer: Efficiency, as well as grid stability, is of central importance in the supply of energy, and HARTING is making decisive contributions here. Our connectors minimise contact resistance. That’s how we reduce power loss at the respective connection points and maximise efficiency throughout the entire energy chain.

At the same time, HARTING is fielding a convincing portfolio in terms of robustness and quality, which is elementary for stable networks. We are constantly striving to improve our products and integrate technologies that meet the latest efficiency standards.

Jörg Scheer: The mobility and agricultural engineering sectors present particular challenges as they rely on traditional technologies. In the mobility sector, there are economic hurdles that are slowing down the use of electric solutions – and many companies are reluctant to invest in the necessary infrastructure. The situation is similar in agricultural technology, where farmers often adhere to tried and tested solutions. HARTING is meeting these challenges with customised, economically and technically viable solutions. We engage and work closely with our partners to understand the specific requirements of the respective industries and sectors.

Jörg Scheer: Interoperability is a key aspect of the All Electric Society. Our connectors are designed so as to be seamlessly integrated into various applications. By standardising our products, we enable convenient integration into existing systems, which is particularly important for Industry 4.0. We are continuously investing in research and development to ensure that our solutions meet the latest technical requirements.

Jörg Scheer: In recent years, we have made significant progress in charging infrastructure and data and energy transmission. For example, we have developed an extensive portfolio of charging plugs for electric vehicles that are suitable for AC and DC fast charging. We have also developed special connectors for railway technology and power supply solutions for data centres.

Jörg Scheer: One example is our collaboration with a leading wind farm operator, where the use of our connectors and cable systems has significantly raised the efficiency of energy transmission. Another example is the implementation of our solutions in the charging infrastructure for electric vehicles in urban areas, which has helped to reduce CO₂ emissionsand enhance mobility.

Jörg Scheer: Collaboration is decisive in realising the vision of the All Electric Society. HARTING cannot achieve everything on its own, so the exchange of knowledge and resources is an essential factor.

We are working with partner companies, research institutions and political players to develop standardised solutions and drive innovative projects forward. These collaboration activities enable us to pursue approaches that extend beyond our own capabilities.

Jörg Scheer: We expect electrification to continue to advance in many areas. The shift towards more networking technologies that enable the efficient use of energy is a key trend here. Consequently, experts should monitor Industry 4.0 developments and their influence on new applications and production processes. Innovative connectivity solutions will facilitate and support this transition and open up new business opportunities.

Jörg Scheer: I am convinced that the All Electric Society will usher in far-reaching changes that will not only promote technological progress, but also drive more environmentally friendly practices forward. This shift will create new business opportunities. Early adapting companies that develop innovative solutions can benefit from the competition. HARTING perceives itself as shaping and designing this future, in which the connection of energy and data is an essential factor. We want to make decisive contributions to the realisation of the All Electric Society through innovative products and strategic cooperation activities. The challenges are complex, but I am decidedly optimistic about the prospects.