Renewable energies and its associated technologies (a.k.a., CleanTech) are a diverse and highly dynamic field. On the one hand much has yet to be discovered, but on the other hand, many can be the rewards. As some of these technologies are relatively new, there may not yet be standardized guidelines for designing, for example, large-scale facilities in hydrogen electrolysis or battery technology. Nevertheless, solutions can usually be found for these challenges, Oliver explains. His approach: always engage in dialogue, leverage extensive experience, and consistently consider the security infrastructure in a comprehensive manner. 

The physicist and business economist works as a Global Business Development Manager for Dräger. And “Global” is definitely the key word that fits because it takes Oliver all over the world; “There are virtually no regions on the globe where renewable energy is currently not a topic." And countries that have not yet embraced this topic, feel the necessity to catch up with emerging cleantech strategies, as more and more businesses are putting sustainability at the forefront. 

In this context, Asia's role is already so significant that Dräger has established a strong presence in the area. Our presence in India has been led by a growing demand for clean energy solutions, as an example, a 64-member team based in Mumbai includes major corporations from the steel and energy industries among our clients. All operating globally and with commitment to sustainability. Currently, there are more than 1,500 projects worldwide along the entire value chain where Dräger contributes its expertise in cleantech. That’s more than promising—that’s proof we’re on the right track. 

What exactly is cleantech? Simply put, it stands for clean technology and its aim is to promote cleaner alternatives to help preserve our environment. Among many areas, it includes the production and logistics of green hydrogen and its derivatives, as well as the construction and operation of wind turbines and the dynamically growing battery industry. Additionally, for those keeping up with current news, the emergence of green steel production is a pivotal development in CleanTech. 

However, for Oliver, the essence of cleantech is not confined to isolated innovations; it's defined by its variety and the speed of evolution across different industries. He sees cleantech as a dynamic journey of transformation, touching every sector with its promise of a more sustainable future. From Oliver’s perspective, “When it comes to green hydrogen for example, a lot is happening beyond its production, in areas ranging from shipping to urban technology.” As an expert, he is convinced of the future potential of this environmentally friendly energy source and its derivatives: “If we look around at what renewable energy sources are available besides green electricity, then we're talking about green hydrogen and derived substances like green methanol and green ammonia.” 

In this rapidly evolving landscape of clean technologies, safety remains a key component as businesses seek comprehensive and reliable solutions to meet their needs. No matter the scenario, whether it's a large electrolyzer or a workshop for fuel cell vehicles, customers require safety concepts, gas measurement technology, as well as other solutions and services from Dräger's offerings for their respective applications. However, Oliver notes that what operators primarily seek is the expertise and know-how of professionals who are familiar with the market segment, its risks, and challenges. "Our customers continuously express their gratitude: In each country, we hear how much they value the guidance our team provides and its incredible benefits," he shares. And he would know best, seeing as one of his own tasks is about "Sales Enablement," which primarily involves establishing contact with customers. After establishing and getting to know the customer’s specific needs, the respective sales teams begin to implement the projects. A key focus lies on stationary gas measurement technology and the subsequent services provided by our Dräger colleagues worldwide, who are experts in their field and support customers on-site.

Oliver, together with colleagues from the "Safety & Emergency Management" team, develops safety concepts specifically for companies in the hydrogen and energy sectors. Personally, he finds satisfaction in being able to present a solution to a challenge. "If the customer leaves the conversation with a smile, then it was time well spent for both of us," he says. Interestingly enough, insurance companies and authorities are also increasingly seeing Dräger as an important advisor on the subject. 

Change is a dynamic and vital part of the cleantech market. Therefore, Dräger is continuously developing products and solutions that adapt to this change.  In the area of firefighting, for example, fire and gas mapping will strengthen the use of ultrasonic sensors and flame detectors as part of their safety concepts. These offer particularly good options for leak detection in hydrogen-conducting systems. Such new applications inspire Oliver: “I am a very curious person, which is why I also studied physics.” However, his work also requires endurance and perseverance. Because change is not a sprint, but a marathon. And it not only affects the flagship projects of the energy industry such as new processes in refineries, but also impacts numerous sectors. This also includes the infrastructure from large storage facilities to tank containers and pipelines. “This is about the safe logistics of the derivatives of green hydrogen, especially green methanol and green ammonia,” Oliver says as he reemphasizes the relevance of these energy sources. Here, safety concepts, measuring and protective equipment are definitely in demand. 

Oliver is certain that the large fleets of municipal commercial vehicles will also be a huge issue in the coming years due to the switch to emission-free vehicles: In contrast to passenger cars, not only battery-electric solutions are being pursued here, but the hydrogen-powered fuel cell as an energy converter will play an important role. This means setting up and operating appropriate infrastructure for the supply and service of garbage trucks, buses and trucks. 

Driven by a vision for a more sustainable world, Oliver’s dedication to the field of cleantech is rooted in a profound belief. He is deeply convinced that cleantech is a key topic for the future of society: “We contribute to making the transformation safe for everyone involved. The topic of renewable energy is inspiring. It brings me joy when I get up in the morning.” On a different note, he is quite critical of his generation's slow response to climate change and the urgent need to transform the energy industry. “That’s why what we’re doing today is so important – our children and grandchildren will feel the difference that we are making today.”