Case study: Energy communities: how to evaluate digital technologies
2. Factsheet
Central to making informed decisions about digital tools and technologies is the evaluation process. Digital tools do not operate in isolation – they shape the way energy communities function, collaborate, and evolve over time. In this fact sheet you will:
- Find out why evaluating digital technologies is important.
- Explore key criteria for evaluating digital technologies.
- Consider two examples of digital technology use within the European context.
Go deeper! Explore some examples of digital technologies supporting European energy communities:
Smart meters
Smart meters provide real-time data on energy flows, enabling detailed monitoring and management of energy consumption and production. Smart meters can also facilitate the integration of renewable energy sources, allowing for more efficient distribution and balancing of energy within the community. One example is highlighted by the Maakjemeterslim.be [BE] website, a resource created by Flux50, the Environment Department, Fluvius, and Volta.
Data Analytics Platforms
Data analytics platforms play a crucial role in processing the vast amounts of data generated by smart meters and other sources within energy communities.
These platforms employ algorithms and models to identify patterns, predict energy demand, and optimise energy distribution. By analysing energy consumption trends, these platforms can help communities integrate renewable energy sources more effectively, ensuring that locally generated solar or wind power is used efficiently and minimising reliance on external sources. As seen on the factsheet, one example is Flux50's work on Energy Cloud Platforms which supports a system where energy data can be shared securely and used to develop intelligent applications that further optimise energy management within communities.
Blockchain
Blockchain technology offers a secure and transparent way to facilitate peer-to-peer (P2P) energy trading within energy communities. In a P2P energy trading system, community members can buy and sell energy directly from each other, often using locally generated renewable energy. Blockchain's decentralised and immutable nature ensures that these transactions are recorded accurately and transparently, fostering trust among participants and reducing the need for intermediaries. Research by Collective Energy Coop (COEN) has explored the economic benefits of such local energy markets, demonstrating the potential for blockchain to enhance the feasibility of renewable energy investments and provide cost savings for community members.
Community Energy Management Systems
Community energy management systems are software platforms that coordinate the various aspects of energy production, storage, and distribution within an energy community.
These systems integrate data from smart meters, renewable energy sources, and energy storage devices to optimise energy flows, balance supply and demand, and enable energy sharing among members. By managing energy collectively, communities can maximise the use of locally generated renewable energy, reduce energy costs, and increase energy resilience. COEN's involvement in projects like DECODIT showcases how data-driven approaches and community energy management systems can optimise renewable energy usage and improve the overall efficiency of energy cooperatives.