Publicly accessible, elaborated grid datasets, i.e., benchmark grids, are well suited to publish and compare methods or study results. Similarly, developing innovative tools and algorithms in the fields of grid planning and grid operation is based on grid datasets. Therefore, a general methodology to generate benchmark datasets and its voltage level dependent implementation is described in this paper. As a result, SimBench, a comprehensive dataset for the low, medium, high and extra-high voltage level, is presented. Besides grids that can be combined across several voltage levels, the dataset offers an added value by providing time series for a whole year as well as future scenarios. In this way, SimBench is applicable for many use cases and simplifies reproducing study results. As proof, different automated algorithms for grid planning are compared to show how to apply SimBench and make use of it as a simulation benchmark.

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Investment and policy decisions in the context of sustainable development are classic application areas for multi-criteria decision analysis. Ranking various pathways, i.e. conversion routes, for biomass use in the energy sector is particularly challenging. Depending on how ecological, economic, and social criteria are weighed, a multi-criteria decision analysis can lead to significantly contrasting recommendations. In this paper, we present a decision support for eleven energy pathways using decision criteria drawn from all three sustainability dimensions-ecological, economical, and social. For the graphical presentation of the relatively large number of pathways and criteria weightings, we introduce a novel visualization approach that combines the results of both PROMETHEE I and II. This visualization approach permits stakeholders to quickly and intuitively gather insights about the result structure and the consequences of different input parameters, for instance different criteria weightings.

Purpose – The purpose of this study is to examine both the technical feasibility and the commercial viability of several demand-side integration (DSI) programs to utilize the charging flexibility of electric transport vehicles in a logistic facility. DSI is important for improving system reliability and assisting in integrating renewables into the energy system. Design/methodology/approach – A pre-assessment of several DSI programs is performed by considering effort for implementation, costs and economic potential. Afterward, the most promising programs are compared economically on the basis of optimization methods and economic analysis. The analysis is based on a comprehensive electric mobility project dealing with electric transport vehicles operating in container terminals. Findings – The pre-assessment of several potential DSI programs revealed that many of these programs are unsuitable, largely due to regulatory requirements. Although using DSI to optimize the company’s load is feasible, controlled charging based on variable prices is particularly advantageous because the implementation requires modest effort while identifying significant cost-saving potentials. Practical implications – Based on the analysis, other companies using electric transport vehicles have a foundation for identifying the most promising demand-side management program. Originality/value – While most research has focused on individually used electric vehicles, here commercial electric transport vehicles operating in closed systems were investigated as this area of application was found to be particularly suitable for participation in DSI programs.