Although local power generation by renewable sources is increasing, it has not yet had a real impact on radical decarbonisation of the energy sector, Changes need to be made by unlocking the potential of the prosumer. This project proposes a community-based Virtual Power Plant (cVPP), a novel model that can help organise & significantly boost renewable energy production & distribution at a local level.

Taking the VPP a step further

A virtual power plant (VPP) refers to a cluster of dispersed generator units, controllable loads & storage systems, aggregated to operate as a unique power plant. It enables integration of renewables & flexibility in demand in energy markets. Several VPP designs exist on the market developed by various organisations, however, implementation remained limited due to a top-down focus on technical parameters. The community-based version of a VPP is bottom-up and focusses on sustainability issues, by organizing a form of Collective Power, that is increasing the level of participation and control of the local community. The cVPP thus aims at taking the development of the VPP a step further.

Empowering prosumers - raising awareness - facilitate upscaling

The concept offers a community the opportunity to provide its energy needs with small-scale, distributed low-carbon technologies with participation from individual consumers, local energy companies or SMEs. It can empower prosumers and contribute to the democratisation of energy markets. This process spurs awareness & public engagement in the energy transition. By doing so, it facilitates upscaling of low-carbon energy community-driven initiatives that have, so far, missed critical mass to trigger the energy transition.

This project will…

jointly conceptualise & test cVPP in 3 different markets of BE, NL, IRL with an aim to maximise interconnectedness of the cVPPs, joint influence & learning about different institutional contexts influencing implementation of cVPP;

co-create a Mobilisation& Replication (MoRe) model based on practical lessons from realisation of different cVPP designs in 3 locations & cultures, supported by theoretical insights & interviews. MoRe aims to enable the propagation of cVPP to other territories by accounting for local preferences & aims and by provision of guidance to communities on how to address emerging barriers to cVPP implementation in their areas;

Test & assess the MoRe by replicating in follower communities that will be identified & actively engaged in the process. After its end, the project will contribute to further roll-out of the cVPP to other NEW & European areas by dissemenation of business plans & guidance.

Long Term aspirations

In 10 years, the investments will stimulate the development of ca 50 new cVPPs in Europe, motivating environmental (450 KT CO2 emission reduction), social (4500 jobs) & economic (25000 houses with improved energy classification) effects that will proliferate further into the future. This replication will form the basis for the establishment of the EU cVPP network.

Partners:

• Tipperary Energy Agency (TEA)
• Stichting Duurzame Projecten Loenen (DPL)
• EnerGent
• Gemeente Apeldoorn (GA)
• Kamp C
• Templederry Renewable energy Supply Limited. T/A Community Renewable energy supply (CRES)
• Tipperary County Council (TCC)
• Sub-Partner 1 (TU/e): Duneworks
• Sub-Partner 2 (TEA): Friends of the Earth Ireland (FOEI)
• Sub-Partner 3 (DPL): Alliander
• Sub-Partner 4 (DPL): USEF
• Sub-Partner 5 (EnerGent): Ecopower
• Sub-Partner 6 (CRES): Claremorris and western District Energy Cooperative Ltd
• Sub-Partner 7 (CRES): Limerick Community Grocery Ltd (The Urban Co-Op)
• Sub-Partner 8 (CRES): Energy Communities Tipperary Cooperative Ltd
• Sub-Partner 9 (CRES): Aran Islands Energy Cooperative
• Sub-Partner 10 (CRES): Smart M Power Ltd

Start date: 2017 - End date: 2020