Project description
New management platform for the modern grid
Modern power grids are moving away from centralised, infrastructure-heavy transmission system operators (TSOs) towards distribution system operators (DSOs) that are flexible and more capable of managing diverse renewable energy sources. DSOs require new ways of managing the increased number of producers, end users and more volatile power distribution systems of the future. The EU-funded PlatOne project is using blockchain technology to build a platform to meet the needs of modern DSO power systems, including data management. The platform is built with existing regulations in mind, and will allow small power producers to be easily certified so that they can sell excess energy back to the grid. The platform will also incorporate an open-market system to link with traditional TSOs.
Objective
To manage energy transition, DSOs require innovative tools. Volatile renewable energy sources in combination with less predictable consumption patterns call for higher levels of observability and exploitation of flexibility. While these two challenges are traditionally treated with separate means, PlatOne proposes an innovative approach to a joint data management for both. Fully respecting the existing regulatory framework, a layered set of platforms will allow to meet the needs of system operators, aggregators and end users. A blockchain based platform is the access layer to generators’ and customers’ flexibilities able to break traditional access barriers by providing certified measures to all the players. In conjunction, certified data and signals will be used for an innovative DSO platform to locally maintain system integrity fostering confidence in flexibility operations. An upper layer will implement a new concept of blockchain-based open market platform to link the local system to the TSO domains and enhance the overall system cost efficiency. Because flexibility means customer involvement, PlatOne puts the grid users at the centre, investigates their needs and expectations and uses the underlying blockchain to unlock the potentials of higher dynamics of response. The platforms will be tested in 3 large pilots in Europe and analysed in cooperation with a large research initiative in Canada. Thanks to strategic partnerships and a unique consortium structure with an excellent network, PlatOne can offer an unprecedented effort of dissemination and exploitation with focus on DSO experts and final users.
Fields of science
Programme(s)
Funding Scheme
IA - Innovation actionCoordinator
52062 Aachen
Germany