Our key: grid state variables
Grid state variables such as frequency or energy flow reflect the current grid situation, such as balance of supply and demand or grid infrastructure load. We translate such technical information into price signals that are easy to receive, understand and convert into action by all grid participants. On behalf of their owners, device controllers optimize both the desired function and energy cost, e.g. by shifting appliance operation to low price times. At the same time, they help ensure stable and reliable grid operation.
- Manage complex systems in easy, decentral and stable way
- Minimize amount and cost of energy storage and communication infrastructure (save CAPEX and OPEX)
A typical price signal is the “Balance Indicator” (BI). It is derived from a physical signal that depends on the balance of supply and demand, such as energy flow into or out of a grid area, or grid frequency in the case of isolated grids. BI will indicate lower prices when the sun shines and wind blows, so flexible consumers benefit if they shift operation to these times. As a result, they consume more energy when this is abundant and less otherwise: They support the grid as low cost “virtual batteries”. By converting the BI into dynamic energy tariffs for end customers, grid operators and energy companies can easily implement smart energy systems.
Another price signal that can be used is the “Congestion Indicator” (CI). It indicates that infrastructure (transformers, lines) is reaching physical operation limits (e.g. power load).
Local markets massively reduce system management complexity. Our technology enables grid operators to introduce much simpler and more reliable decentral energy management. As it can manage such systems in real time (seconds) with resulting benefits of more stable grid operation (security of supply), integration of higher shares of volatile renewables (cleaner energy), and reduced energy cost for end customers by lower infrastructure cost allocations.