Buildings contribute to grid stability
Die Energieversorgung der Zukunft erfordert mehr als nur den Ausbau erneuerbarer Energien. Smarte Technologien müssen dafür sorgen, dass Energie effizient genutzt und ins Stromnetz integriert wird. Forschende der Empa haben einen Algorithmus entwickelt, der das Energiemanagement in Gebäuden optimiert, CO2-Emissionen senkt und Versorgungssicherheit gewährleistet.
The transformation of the energy sector brings challenges. Renewable energies such as photovoltaics do not provide a constant supply of electricity, but are subject to weather conditions and times of day. The power supply must therefore become more flexible in order to utilise production peaks and compensate for bottlenecks. This is precisely where automated building systems come in. They control consumption and feed-in intelligently and reduce the load on the grid.
Predictive control for maximum efficiency
An innovative algorithm developed by Empa analyses energy availability and user behaviour in order to optimally control energy consumption. For example, surplus solar energy is prioritised or stored instead of overloading the grid. At the same time, comfort is maintained. Hot water or heating are available exactly when they are needed.
Successful practical test in the NEST building
The algorithm was tested under real conditions in a pilot project in Empa’s NEST building. A photovoltaic system, battery storage, a heat pump and a charging station for electric vehicles were used. The results show that CO2 emissions were reduced by more than 10 per cent without compromising user comfort. The building was also able to communicate independently with the grid in order to absorb peak loads.
Digitalisation as a prerequisite for scalable solutions
The study shows that intelligent energy control is a key building block for a sustainable energy future. In order for such solutions to be used across the board, consistent digitalisation is required. At the same time, it must be ensured that the IT infrastructure remains sustainable. Empa researchers are therefore already investigating ways of using old smartphones as control units for building automation.
The future of energy supply lies in the networking of intelligent systems. Through predictive management, buildings can not only cover their own energy requirements, but also actively contribute to grid stability.