Intelligent networking of actors and digitalised technical systems for a cost-efficient and resilient energy system transformation

The advanced energy system transformation and the cross-industry trend towards intelligent networking of technical systems, i.e. digitalisation, have achieved considerable successes, but are still to be put to the test. Due to the energy system transformation, cost and complexity of integrating higher shares of fluctuating and decentralised generation are increasing. In the area of the much-vaunted Internet of things, not only technically possible but also economically profitable and secure innovations are in demand.

Based on the smart meter gateway architecture and the legal framework for communication between energy industry players and technical systems, possibilities for the resilient design of information and payment flows are to be investigated. A central project goal is to identify ways of integrating decentralised and fluctuating power generation as far as possible in such a way that phases of power oversupply and deficits are compensated for in a cost-efficient manner. Also, the intelligent use of ICT allows the networks to be expanded and operated in a targeted and thus cost-efficient manner, particularly with regard to the additional loads caused by electromobility and sector coupling. The research project SynergieQuartier Walldorf aims to research and demonstrate this next stage of energy system transformation, albeit in a limited space, but with all the key players and energy technologies. Key aspects of today's markets and regulations will be further developed and finally applied and evaluated on a pilot basis, so that valid results can be derived for economic efficiency, security and acceptance of a market and grid-oriented flexibility provision by households and commercial enterprises. The "systemic character" of the project is to be emphasised since only the linked consideration of many individual elements makes the transition towards a decentralised energy system based entirely on renewable energy possible.