Renewable Energy Systems with EnergySharing
: A Model-Based Approach

  • Pascal Dietrich

Student thesis: Master's Thesis

Abstract

Conventional energy systems, dependent on non-renewable sources, are major contributors to global CO2  emissions. Additionally, these systems limit consumer energy independence, as they tie consumers to utility rates from energy providers.
This thesis explores the capabilities and benefits of renewable energy systems incorporating photovoltaics (PV), electric vehicle charging stations, and energy storage within renewable energy communities (RECs) in Austria. Through detailed simulations and comparative analyses, the study evaluates these systems for energy independence and cost-efficiency compared to conventional grid-supplied configurations. The research emphasizes the role of these systems in contributing to renewable energy metrics within the context of a climate and energy model region, aligning with sustainability targets of the European Union.
A model-based approach is utilized to simulate various system configurations. The findings indicate that systems with PV have the lowest net present cost, while adding battery storage enhances autarky by an average of 4.2% in the configurations considered.
Further, the feasibility of RECs is evaluated through simulations at three levels: within one building, local and regional. The study reveals that energy sharing within RECs can significantly reduce costs and improve energy independence. At the regional level the greatest benefits are observed as autarky increases by 19% and associated savings of 11 167 € annually are demonstrated. Moreover, static and dynamic energy allocation strategies are analyzed, proving a substantial increase in shared energy with dynamic allocation.
Regarding PV capacity, two expansion stages are compared. The second stage increasing shared energy by 67% against the first stage. Energy sharing savings are dissected by tariff structures and reduced fees based on grid level, highlighting the financial variability of RECs.
This research concludes that energy sharing within RECs offers substantial benefits for energy independence and cost efficiency, while also promoting local renewable energy generation. Future work should focus on further validating these findings and exploring the implications of energy sharing on grid infrastructure and demand-side management.
Date of AwardSept 2024
Original languageEnglish
SupervisorGerald Steinmaurer (Supervisor)

Cite this

'