As energy demands soar and the integration of distributed energy resources (DERs) becomes more prevalent, the quest for efficient load management within energy communities has never been more critical. A recent study led by Dimitra G. Kyriakou from the School of Electrical and Computer Engineering at the Technical University of Crete sheds light on a promising strategy: effective, constraint-aware load shifting within microgrid-based energy communities.
The research, published in the journal ‘Energies’, presents an innovative approach aimed at flattening the electrical load profile of a High-Voltage (HV)/Medium-Voltage (MV) power transformer. This transformer not only serves the community but also supports surrounding areas, making its load profile crucial for grid stability. The study highlights a dual focus: managing the diverse and fluctuating electrical and thermal demands of buildings while also addressing the broader energy landscape supplied by the local substation.
Kyriakou states, “Our methodology allows for the strategic shifting of non-critical loads, particularly those related to HVAC systems, to off-peak periods. This not only optimizes energy consumption but also enhances comfort for residents.” By redistributing energy use over time, the approach mitigates peak demand pressures that can strain local grids and lead to higher operational costs.
The researchers conducted detailed simulations, demonstrating that their method could shift 20% of electrical loads to off-peak periods while also adjusting HVAC energy consumption by 2.1% for cooling and 0.6% for heating. This level of load shifting is significant, especially in areas where energy efficiency is paramount. Moreover, the innovative use of auxiliary generators facilitated an additional 10% redistribution of energy demand, smoothing out fluctuations that often challenge grid operators.
The implications for the energy sector are profound. As energy communities continue to evolve, the ability to manage and optimize load profiles will be essential for balancing supply and demand, particularly with increasing reliance on renewable energy sources. This research not only paves the way for enhanced operational flexibility but also aligns with the growing emphasis on sustainability and resilience in energy systems.
Looking ahead, Kyriakou envisions further developments: “Future research could focus on maximizing the shifted energy of HVAC loads while maintaining occupant comfort. Additionally, incorporating user preferences and electricity pricing into the load-shifting strategy could enhance the overall efficiency of these systems.”
This work underscores the potential for innovative load management strategies to transform the way energy communities operate, optimizing both economic and environmental outcomes. As the energy landscape continues to shift, the findings from this study may well serve as a blueprint for future advancements in the field of energy management.
