Together into the future – How the VDE is active worldwide

For more than 100 years, the abbreviation VDE stood for “Verband Deutscher Elektrotechniker” (Association of German Electrical Engineers). In 1998, it was decided to retain the abbreviation, but to rename the association “Verband der Elektrotechnik Elektronik Informationstechnik” (Association for Electrical, Electronic and Information Technologies). This was intended to make it clear that the VDE no longer exclusively represents traditional electrical engineering, but has a much broader thematic focus. What went largely unnoticed during the name discussion at the time was that the association was also quietly moving away from its national roots – and not without reason. Although the VDE remained a German “registered association,” it set out to become a globally active, internationally networked organization. “I am not aware of any other German associations that are as internationally positioned as we are,” says Ansgar Hinz, Chairman of the VDE Group.

This starts with the scientific societies within the VDE, which have long since ceased to operate solely at the national level. The VDE also builds bridges across national borders through EUREL, the umbrella organization of European associations for electrical engineering, electronics, and information technology, which was founded in 1972.

At the same time, it has a presence in the US. VDE Americas was founded in 2013. It quickly established itself as an important player in the North American market – especially in the field of renewable energies. A milestone was the acquisition of the Renewable Energy Test Center (RETC), which has positioned itself as a leading service provider in solar technology. With the recent acquisition of the renowned US testing laboratory SolarPTL by RETC, VDE Americas is further strengthening its presence.

At the same time, many young people, students, and young professionals are traveling around the world on behalf of or with VDE. 

In addition to the articles on our focus topic, this issue also includes: 

V2G for everyone: Using electric car batteries as energy storage is profitable for the grid and users.

In case of emergency: In order to become defensible, the innovative strength of the German Armed Forces and the defense industry must be increased.

We hope you enjoy reading this issue.
Your editorial team

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