Periodic Reporting for period 1 - ElGrid (The Tool Supporting (r)Evolution In Forecasting and Optimizing Power Distribution Networks)
Reporting period: 2016-10-01 to 2017-03-31
ElGrid addresses the very up-to-date challenge related to projected growth of population of electric vehicles (EVs), abundance renewable energy source (RES), presence of distributed generation (DG) & co-generation, presence of prosumers, smart meters, and the advent of residential energy storage. This rapid change in in the consumer’s profile affects distribution networks operated by the Distribution System Operators (DSOs). If left unresolved, it may limit the pace of EVs introduction due to their dependence on charging infrastructure. Considering the planned investments of €400 Bn in the power distribution sector in Europe by 2020 we see the great market potential and an attractive business opportunity which can be exploited more efficiently with the Phase 2 funding.
The conducted technology and market analysis demonstrated the viability of the technology to reach the market. Extensive collaboration with potential buyers (DSOs) helped as well as other representatives of the energy sector industry, university experts, ensured use on the existing market needs and relevant business opportunity. It truly contributes to the contemporary challenges which DSOs will be very soon facing. We elaborated Feasibility Study conducting both technological and market related assessment of the planned development identifying necessary steps (including evolved architecture of our application, resources and risks linked to bringing our solution to the market. Its viability has been also confirmed by several letters of interest signed by possible customers. We performed analysis of competitive solutions, conducted IPR analysis, and identified collaborators for the pilot trials to be performed as continuation of the Phase 1 project within planned Phase 2.
Our solution can assist DSOs in taking short, mid, and long term investment decision optimizing complex power networks with all types of RES, electric energy storage and EVs reducing loss of energy in distribution networks. With our application already proven by the conducted trial users will be able to conduct all necessary types of engineering calculations and achieve their business goals quickly and smoothly. Through conducted interviews and market research we confirmed on specific features highly needed by DSOs to mitigate loss, enable wider penetration of EVs, provide greater support for RES and DG, as well as to improve security and quality of energy supply to individual users meeting stringent legislation requirements.