Zach Tuckwell

Zach Tuckwell questioned how Fluence Energy's products fit into data center requirements, particularly regarding ramp time and interactivity, and how the company plans to integrate data centers into its pipeline and backlog. He also sought clarification on the ASC ownership situation.

Answer

Julian Nebreda, President and CEO of Fluence Energy, highlighted Fluence's competitive advantages for data centers, including dense, safe, and reliable products with strong cybersecurity. He noted that while they have a roadmap for sub-10ms response times, current growth is driven more by 'speed to power' and 'bring your own generation' applications. Nebreda explained that providing specific guidance on data center pipeline conversion is difficult due to it being a new segment and competitive reasons. He clarified that ASC will resolve its PFE status independently, with Fluence remaining an offtaker, and emphasized the diversification of their domestic cell supply.

Zach Tuckwell asked about how Fluence's products align with data center requirements, particularly regarding ramp time and interactivity, and how the product roadmap might adapt. He also inquired about the process for explicitly including data centers in Fluence's pipeline and backlog. Additionally, he sought clarification on the ASC situation, specifically if it would remain a contracting relationship rather than an ownership outcome, and if Fluence would explore other domestic cell suppliers.

Answer

Julian Nebreda (President and CEO, Fluence Energy) highlighted Fluence's competitive advantages in dense, safe, reliable (99% last year), and cyber-secure products. He noted that current data center growth is driven more by 'speed to power' and 'bring your own generation' applications, rather than 'quality of power' (which requires sub-10ms response time, a roadmap item). He acknowledged that it's a new market segment, making pipeline/backlog guidance difficult, and emphasized competitive sensitivity. Regarding ASC, he confirmed Fluence would remain an offtaker, with ASC resolving the ownership issue independently. He also reiterated that Fluence has already added a second domestic supplier (EV lines converting to BESS) and is excited about the expanding U.S. market for battery cells.