Technologies enabling evolution of Integrated Local Energy Communities

Abstract

Integrated local multi-energy systems are recognized as a promising bottom-up alternative to achieve the ambitious energy and climate goals set by the European Commission for 2030. The nature of integrated multi-energy systems presumes a very complex interaction of different aspects from various energy sectors, which historically functioned more or less independently. Therefore, configuration and development of an integrated local energy system under the energy community concept is an extremely demanding task, requiring a sound interdisciplinary knowledge base. The present study shares results from an activity in H2020 project eNeuron aiming to cover this gap, by introducing the Integrated Local Energy Community definition and providing a deep-dive review of multiple factors influencing the future development of these emerging systems, reviewing the three levels: political priorities, technical overview and limitations plus barriers.

Innovative Industrial Solutions for Improving the Technical/Economic Competitiveness of Concentrated Solar Power

“…The development of RES integrated with high-efficiency systems is essential since they are usually characterized by low environmental impacts and contribute to increasing the penetration of distributed generation and cogeneration systems within traditional networks. Furthermore, renewable technologies can also be seen as the main driver for accelerating the development of smart grids and Energy Communities (ECs) [4][5][6][7].…”

An innovative toolbox for the optimal design and operation of integrated local energy communities

“…Similarly, combined heat and power can locally exploit the waste heat from power generation processes for buildings' thermal demand, increasing the efficiency in energy resource use. At the local level, sector coupling fits well in the concept of the integrated local energy community (ILEC), that refers to a set of energy users coordinating operation of their electricity, thermal, and storage technologies to both satisfy their energy needs and maximize the benefits that can be derived from this collegial approach via optimized management of energy flows [3]. By representing collectively organised energy systems, ILECs can effectively integrate different energy systems while fulfilling the multi-energy demand of the communities' users by providing important benefits such as reducing primary energy consumption, improving environmental conditions and increasing resilience of energy supply [4].…”