eCells

The eCells research project focuses on ensuring efficient grid operation and influencing the grid expansion process to reduce costs. The challenges here are the enormous installed capacity of power plants and renewable energy systems (very high peak generation capacity) and the grid connection of new electricity consumers. The algorithms developed in eCells are intended to optimize distributed energy system accounting for operational restrictions (grid utilization and grid voltage) as well as economic aspects of flexibility (loads, generation plants and storage) in such a way that efficient operation of the electricity system is made possible at comparatively low grid costs. The work on technical innovations is flanked by a regulatory and economic classification.

Project Objectives

1. Development of a cloud-based platform designed to capture the existing flexibility in the grid and convert it into system services that support grid operations.
2. Demonstration and validation of the eCells concept by means of simulation, laboratory tests and field tests.
3. Identification of potential (regulatory) obstacles and possible business models in order to derive concrete recommendations for action.

EWI’s role in eCells

The project consists of seven work packages with both technical and non-technical issues. EWI is in charge of work package 2 and work package 7.

Work package 2: Energy economic concepts, business models and regulatory framework
First, the optimal consumption profile as well as the flexibility limits and potentials are determined. Strategies for market agility are developed on the basis of this flexibility analysis. In addition to the development and implementation of technical strategies, the main aim is to develop new market models. In addition, regulatory aspects of a restructuring of grid operation along the concept of cellular energy systems will be comprehensively examined.

Work package 7: Derivation of recommendations for action
In this work package, all the results and findings of the research project are analyzed with regard to possible recommendations for action. For example, regulatory recommendations will be developed on the basis of the investigation and obstacle analysis of the second work package. The overarching aim is to provide practical recommendations for network operators, manufacturers and regulatory institutions.