In the heart of Norway, a groundbreaking dataset is set to revolutionize how we think about integrated energy systems. Developed by Pratik Mochi and his team at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), the Norwegian Energy Community Dataset offers a comprehensive look at a local energy community in Porsgrunn, Norway. This dataset, recently published in the journal “Data in Brief” (which translates to “Data in Brief” in English), is poised to shape the future of energy modeling and optimization.
The dataset is a treasure trove of information, encompassing everything from electricity consumption and generation data to hydrogen demand and production. It includes hourly smart meter data for 400 electricity end users, ranging from residential to industrial consumers and prosumers, over a nine-month period. “This dataset is unique because it integrates both electricity and hydrogen systems, providing a holistic view of the energy landscape,” Mochi explains.
One of the standout features of the dataset is its inclusion of distributed energy resources. These include rooftop solar PV systems installed by 300 users, a 1.3 MW wind power plant, and battery energy storage systems for 250 users. The dataset also incorporates electricity market data, including hourly buy and sell prices for 2024.
On the hydrogen side, the dataset is equally impressive. It includes transport demand data from a real hydrogen-powered ferry operating in a northern Norwegian island and 15 synthetic hydrogen buses modeled using Norwegian specifications. Green hydrogen production is modeled using two electrolyzers (1.2 MW and 2.5 MW) along with associated hydrogen storage.
The potential commercial impacts of this research are significant. By providing a detailed and integrated view of energy systems, the dataset enables researchers to explore sector coupling, local energy market design, flexibility strategies, and cost optimization. “This dataset can help energy companies and policymakers make informed decisions about the future of energy systems,” Mochi notes.
The implications for the energy sector are far-reaching. As the world shifts towards renewable energy sources, the need for integrated energy systems that can efficiently manage both electricity and hydrogen becomes increasingly important. This dataset provides a valuable tool for researchers and industry professionals to model and optimize these systems, paving the way for a more sustainable and efficient energy future.
In the words of Mochi, “This dataset is a stepping stone towards a more integrated and sustainable energy system. It’s not just about the data; it’s about the possibilities it opens up for the future.” As the energy sector continues to evolve, the Norwegian Energy Community Dataset will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping its development.