Digitalization with artificial intelligence, decarbonization through optimization, grid fees, and battery storage. In addition to these topics, the October issue of et-magazine also addresses decentralized storage solutions. In his article, science journalist Dr. Thomas Isenburg explores metals as energy carriers and their potential for the production of hydrogen, electricity, and heat. Alongside project partners from Clean Circles, researchers from ETH Zurich and companies such as Ambartec (Dresden) and Rift (Eindhoven) also share their perspectives.