WP2

Scenarios and pathways toward future intelligent distribution grids

Objectives

The objective of this work package is to define plausible scenarios for future intelligent active distribution systems’ development on the European market This will set the scope of the research and demonstration activities for UNITED‐GRID.

To reach there the work package collects and describes a baseline of current regimes – including existing network data, designing, planning and operating distribution networks. It also depicts plausible pathways for a transition to intelligent distribution networks.

Integration of renewable energy sources (RES), digitalisation that make the grid operation more complex and electrification drives the needs for active distribution networks. Development of viable business models together with appropriate design of regulations, policies and standards are necessary for successful deployment.

The scenarios include possible evolution in the following areas:

• Market design.
• Regulatory and policy schemes.
• Actor roles and responsibilities.
• Development and emerging standards in information and communication technology (ICT).
• Power technologies (e.g., electric vehicles, batteries, heat pumps).
• Consumer engagement for the markets in France, Netherlands and Sweden.

With this parameter space, the baseline and scenarios can be quantitatively assessed and compared against each other.

The scenarios include developments in regulatory and policy frameworks, viable business models for distribution system operators (DSOs) and standards in micro EMS (electronics manufacturing services), BEMS (building energy management systems) and smart homes.