The growing share of renewables means unstable electricity production, which cannot be regulated like a conventional power plant.
Flexible energy devices are therefore an indispensable element without which the integration of solar or wind power plants can’t go smoothly. They offer fast and precise regulation, allowing the grid to withstand sudden fluctuations in supply or consumption – and we can all be more confident that we can simply keep the lights on in the future without fear of outages.
Flexible energy devices serves as a “buffer” between unpredictable renewable generation (solar or wind power plants) and constantly fluctuating consumption (households, businesses). As soon as a surplus situation arises (e.g. during a sunny day), the flexible energy devices either reduces the output (CHP units, batteries) or removes the excess energy and stores it (batteries, thermal storage). Conversely, when electricity is scarce, production can be increased and the missing power can be fed into the grid.
Prediction and control systems are used to know exactly when the flexible energy devices should react. These evaluate data on actual and expected generation, consumption and electricity prices in the market. They react accordingly by increasing and decreasing power output or consumption. Smart management can help stabilise the electricity grid while fully meeting the power (electrical or thermal) demand itself.
The operator pays for the reserved capacity of the flexible energy devices (resources and appliances), and in addition rewards actual activation.
Flexible energy devices are an essential element of the modern energy industry. They enable grid stabilisation, the integration of renewables and secure electricity supplies well into the future.
