DNV Acquires Smarter Power Solutions To Build One Of APAC’s Largest Grid-Connection Engineering Teams As Australia’s High-Renewables Market Surges

DNV, the independent energy expert and assurance provider, has announced the acquisition of Smarter Power Solutions Pty Ltd (SPS), an established Australian power systems engineering consultancy known for its expertise in advanced grid-connection services. This acquisition marks a major step in strengthening DNV’s capabilities across the Asia-Pacific region, positioning the company as one of the leading global consultancies in power grids and grid-connection engineering. Smarter Power Solutions brings a team of highly specialized power system engineers with deep experience in complex grid-connection studies, advanced modelling, commissioning, and regulatory compliance.

Founded in 2021 and headquartered in Melbourne, with additional presence in Brisbane, Sydney, and New Zealand, the company has built a strong track record in supporting next-generation energy technologies. Their notable achievements include securing early approvals from the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) for grid-forming and hybrid battery projects—technologies that are crucial to the future of renewable-dominated power systems. This integration aligns with DNV’s latest Energy Transition Outlook 2025, which emphasizes that power grids have become both the critical enabler and the main bottleneck of the global energy transition.

As nations accelerate renewable energy development, rapid reinforcement, digitalization, and expansion of transmission and distribution networks will be essential to accommodate large-scale renewables, battery storage, and electrified loads. Ditlev Engel, CEO of Energy Systems at DNV, stated that the addition of Smarter Power Solutions will significantly enhance DNV’s ability to guide customers through increasingly complex grid-connection challenges. He noted that SPS’s deep engineering expertise will help streamline grid-connection processes, support smarter and more resilient network designs, and advance decarbonization efforts without compromising system reliability. Engel also expressed pride in welcoming more than 35 experts from SPS, acknowledging their technical depth and innovative approach within one of the world’s most advanced grid environments.

Known for its digital-first methodologies, Smarter Power Solutions uses automation, high-performance computing, and process-driven engineering to deliver high-quality modelling and faster connection approvals. These capabilities will integrate with and elevate DNV’s global power systems business, broadening its support for customers navigating the growing complexity of renewable integration and compliance requirements. This acquisition follows DNV’s purchase of Amplitude Consultants in November 2025, reinforcing the company’s strategy to expand its power grids advisory services across the Asia-Pacific region. With this continued growth, DNV is moving toward building one of the largest independent global grid consultancy practices in APAC.

The broader industry context illustrates the importance of such capabilities. Globally, transmission connection queues continue to lengthen, delaying renewable deployment and prolonging reliance on fossil fuel generation. As grid operators introduce more complex modelling requirements to manage unprecedented amounts of inverter-based resources and storage, the need for technical expertise grows. Australia stands out as a global testbed for these challenges. With renewable penetration reaching a record 78.6% on the main grid in September 2025 and rapid growth in battery storage, the country is recognized as one of the fastest-transforming power systems in the world.

Dr. Lena Landsmann, Vice President and Regional Director APAC, Energy Systems at DNV, explained that Australia’s advanced standards and high-renewables environment provide a blueprint for future power systems globally. With AEMO’s draft 2026 Integrated System Plan forecasting 24 GW of battery energy storage by 2030, she emphasized that the partnership with SPS strengthens DNV’s commitment to supporting Australia’s transition toward 100% renewable energy. The combined expertise will offer enhanced modelling capabilities, digital tools, and engineering depth to ensure grid stability, resilience, and long-term performance. These insights will also strengthen DNV’s advisory services in rapidly evolving markets such as the Middle East and Latin America.

Barry O’Connell, Managing Director of Smarter Power Solutions, said the decision to join DNV reflects deep alignment in values and a shared mission to advance global energy systems. He highlighted Australia’s role as a leader in integrating renewables into weak grids and developing mega-scale renewable projects. Over the past five years, SPS has supported hundreds of generation connections, building what is now Australia’s leading team in generator grid-connection engineering. O’Connell emphasized that SPS’s rigorous engineering processes, combined with cutting-edge computing technologies and collaborative project management, have enabled smoother delivery, faster approvals, and stronger client trust. By joining forces with DNV, he said, the organizations are positioned to build the world’s best power systems engineering team and continue driving innovation across global markets.