Name
John Alexander
Job title
Managing Director Large Scale & Projects
Organisation
SMA
Speaker biography
John Alexander is Managing Director Large Scale & Projects at SMA Australia, where he drives the growth and innovation of large-scale renewable energy projects across Australia and New Zealand, strengthening SMA’s market leadership.
With over 35 years of experience in the energy sector, John brings a comprehensive background in renewable energy operations, project finance, and corporate banking. He has a proven track record of leading high-performing teams, creating innovative solutions, and optimizing stakeholder returns while fostering a culture of accountability, fiscal discipline, and transparency. His expertise positions him well to navigate industry dynamics and contribute to SMA's commitment to sustainability and grid stability through advanced grid-forming technology.
With over 35 years of experience in the energy sector, John brings a comprehensive background in renewable energy operations, project finance, and corporate banking. He has a proven track record of leading high-performing teams, creating innovative solutions, and optimizing stakeholder returns while fostering a culture of accountability, fiscal discipline, and transparency. His expertise positions him well to navigate industry dynamics and contribute to SMA's commitment to sustainability and grid stability through advanced grid-forming technology.
Speaking At
Presentation title
New Markets and Services Based on Energy Storage: Unlocking the Next Phase of Grid Stability
Presentation summary
As coal and gas generators retire, markets and policymakers are increasingly turning to inverter-based resources with energy storage to deliver essential services to the electricity system. This session will explore the regulatory frameworks, emerging market opportunities, and new technologies required to ensure grid stability. As traditional synchronous generators like coal and gas retire, the electricity system must evolve—fast. This session explores how inverter-based technologies paired with energy storage are not just replacing but redefining how we deliver critical system services like inertia, voltage control, and frequency regulation. We’ll delve into how regulatory frameworks are shifting to accommodate new technical capabilities, and where current gaps may be slowing the transition. The session will also unpack global case studies and forward-looking market design initiatives—from synthetic inertia procurement to grid-forming requirements—highlighting opportunities for both investors and operators. Whether you're a policymaker, project developer, or market participant, this session will show how battery energy storage systems (BESS) are becoming the backbone of a secure, decarbonised grid—and how new services and revenue streams are emerging as a result.
