As part of the effort, since 2017, Centrica has been leading a pioneering trial of so called Local Energy Market (LEM) in Cornwall, which is a £19m ERDF programme to explore flexible, smart solutions for the UK. The aim of the trial is to test the use of flexible demand, generation and storage across both domestic and business sectors, while Cornwall offers one of the best climate conditions for the renewable technology penetration, such as wind and solar.
Procure flexibility through a auction-based market platform
Today, and for the first time, Western Power Network, the local Distribution System Operator and National Grid ESO, the local Transmission System Operator, are to procure flexibility from homes and businesses simultaneously through Centrica’s auction-based market platform. LEM programme features solar and battery systems installed into some 100 homes but more than 120 businesses, have also flexible, low carbon energy technologies and monitoring equipment installed. And how does it work? When there is too much renewable energy generation, consumers will be incetnivized to use it or store it for later. On the other hand, if there is too much demand or not enough generation, consumer can save money by using less or even make money by selling energy they do not need back to the market. So in fact, they act as prosumers.
Redefine electric vehicle ownership
Recently, Centrica has entered another pioneering trial with Lotus, which is to redefine electric vehicle ownership. The aim of the trial is to develop a new model of connected vehicles, connected homes and connected customers, but also a new, flexible platform design to power a future emobility lifestyle. There is no doubt, electric vehicles become, along renewable energy sources an essential part of electrical grid integration and can also act as virtual powerplants, themselves. Centrica has already entered an activity with Ford, while developing smart electrical cars charging points. Smart in this case means, that cars will help smooth electricity usage from the National Grid, Slauka, consultant at EREVITA says. (hcn)
EREVITA
