The concept of flexibility in industrial electricity consumption is not new, but company managers tend to know little about its true value and how it can be monetized. Dynamic flexibility makes it possible to maximize self-consumption of on-site wind power. By extension, it can also serve other purposes, such as valorizing this flexibility on the energy market or maximizing self-consumption of other variable output renewable energy systems.
Two methods to assess the flexibility potential of industrial processes are discussed.
The first method – the ‘Flexibility Checklist’ – sets out ten criteria to assess the capacity of an industrial process to operate flexibly. Companies can score themselves against each criterion. The Flexibility Checklist provides a quick and easy assessment of potential problems that could arise when industrial processes are powered using on-site wind turbines, although it is not sufficiently rigorous to fully inform final decision-making.
The second method – the ‘Flexibility Audit’ – starts with a comprehensive assessment of an industrial site’s potential for flexibility and seeks to determine potential flexibilities right down to individual device level. The auditors adopt an open-minded approach so that they can uncover flexibility where it might not be anticipated. Data from the audit are combined with data on company power consumption and business processes to model optimum solutions. The Flexibility Audit requires greater commitment from the company, but delivers results that are built on tested data.
Researchers modeling with the Flexibility Checklist and the Flexibility Audit have identified strong business cases. From a technological point of view there are no insurmountable barriers to the concept and, if circumstances are favorable, flexible industrial processes powered by on site wind energy could be of real benefit to industrial companies daring to make the move.
(ECI Publication Cu0202)
Energy Management System Market: Increasing Demand for Energy Conservation an...AmanpreetSingh409
The energy management system has garnered adoption in commercial sectors across various business organizations. The use of energy management systems has helped the residential consumers to analyze a set of data collected from sensors planted at the site.
Read Report Preview: https://bisresearch.com/industry-report/energy-management-system-market.html
A global and regional analysis of the advanced space composites marketsidbisresearch
Many industrialised and developing countries have focused their efforts on various space programmes and advances in space research.
for more info. visit: https://bisresearch.com/industry-report/advanced-space-composites-market.html
Agenția Internațională a Energiei Regenrabile a anunțat recent că prețurile energiei regenerabile vor deveni competitive în următorii doi ani. Potrivit experților IRENA, până în 2020, vom plăti mai puțin pe orice formă de energie regenerabilă decât pe energia obținută prin arderea combustibililor fosili.
Energy efficiency self assessment in industryLeonardo ENERGY
Industrial companies seeking ways to reduce energy consumption often call upon external advisors to assess the energy efficiency of a plant. While this is generally a good idea, it is unwise to leave this task entirely up to the external advisor. Identification of promising opportunities for saving energy requires thorough insight into the plant’s processes and a profound knowledge of the process design. Plant engineers and operators generally have a much greater insight into their plant than external advisors. It is therefore a good idea to begin the process with an energy efficiency self-assessment, either as a prelude or as a complement to an external assessment.
Where should a self-assessment begin? This paper presents a step-by-step approach for conducting an energy-efficiency self-assessment, from the definition of the scope to the implementation of the action plan. Energy-related data must be collected and analysed, energy conservation measures identified, and associated benefits and costs estimated. Along the way, we discuss a number of real-life cases from various industrial sectors, showing examples of both easily applied measures and capital-intensive solutions.
Energy Management System Market: Increasing Demand for Energy Conservation an...AmanpreetSingh409
The energy management system has garnered adoption in commercial sectors across various business organizations. The use of energy management systems has helped the residential consumers to analyze a set of data collected from sensors planted at the site.
Read Report Preview: https://bisresearch.com/industry-report/energy-management-system-market.html
A global and regional analysis of the advanced space composites marketsidbisresearch
Many industrialised and developing countries have focused their efforts on various space programmes and advances in space research.
for more info. visit: https://bisresearch.com/industry-report/advanced-space-composites-market.html
Agenția Internațională a Energiei Regenrabile a anunțat recent că prețurile energiei regenerabile vor deveni competitive în următorii doi ani. Potrivit experților IRENA, până în 2020, vom plăti mai puțin pe orice formă de energie regenerabilă decât pe energia obținută prin arderea combustibililor fosili.
Energy efficiency self assessment in industryLeonardo ENERGY
Industrial companies seeking ways to reduce energy consumption often call upon external advisors to assess the energy efficiency of a plant. While this is generally a good idea, it is unwise to leave this task entirely up to the external advisor. Identification of promising opportunities for saving energy requires thorough insight into the plant’s processes and a profound knowledge of the process design. Plant engineers and operators generally have a much greater insight into their plant than external advisors. It is therefore a good idea to begin the process with an energy efficiency self-assessment, either as a prelude or as a complement to an external assessment.
Where should a self-assessment begin? This paper presents a step-by-step approach for conducting an energy-efficiency self-assessment, from the definition of the scope to the implementation of the action plan. Energy-related data must be collected and analysed, energy conservation measures identified, and associated benefits and costs estimated. Along the way, we discuss a number of real-life cases from various industrial sectors, showing examples of both easily applied measures and capital-intensive solutions.
Electric motor performance testing and reliability assessmentLeonardo ENERGY
At the heart of a Motor Management Reliability Programme (MMRP) is the use of cost effective Condition Monitoring. The benefits are that this:
reduces the risk of unexpected or premature failures;
facilitates maintenance to be scheduled at the most appropriate and least disruptive times; and
helps minimise the cost and impact of unnecessary maintenance interventions.
Condition monitoring of a motor can range from undertaking occasional but regular tests to continuous real-time monitoring. Central to determining what level of condition monitoring is appropriate is the need to understand the criticality of each motor – what is the likelihood of failure, and how severe are the consequences? The starting point for this is a careful review of each motor on site. Related to this is the question of what to do when a motor fails; should it be replaced or repaired?
This report also considers how the many benefits of condition monitoring and maintenance should be balanced against the increased failures that may occur due to the infant mortality of replacement components, or from the mistakes that might occur during any intrusive intervention.
The second part of this application note acts as a guide to the selection of equipment and monitoring methods, and the frequency at which they should be employed. The tests reviewed include temperature monitoring, vibration monitoring, oil analysis and various electrical tests. This allows the selection of test equipment and methods in line with budget and in house skills.
The goal of energy management is similar to the Trias Energetica concept and aims to reduce energy waste, increase energy-efficiency of remaining energy consumers and increase the share of renewable energy. These days companies are confronted with ever more reasons to implement energy management: from legislative issues and stakeholder pressure to corporate vision and global competition. Energy costs money and represents risk and therefore needs to be properly managed.
Probably the biggest problem regarding energy consumption and its related costs is the so-called invisible nature of energy. Since electricity and gas always seem to be available yet usually not physically visible, people tend not to think about it and take energy for granted. This in turn explains the common lack of even a basic insight into the various streams of energy and their related costs. Logically, a lack of insight also leads to a lack of priority and/or commitment and to a lack of resources dedicated to addressing the issue. Nevertheless, more and more companies (especially multinationals in energy-intensive industries) have taken to implementing the international ISO50001 standard for energy management. In a similar manner to other quality system standards, this standard is aimed at structurally embedding energy management within the entire organization.
While a certified energy management system certainly has value, it may be overkill for many organizations. A simplified and pragmatic approach may even lead to quicker results and higher levels of enthusiasm among the staff. Management commitment however is a must, since resources will be needed to gain insight into the energy streams and to implement optimization projects. Understanding where, when, how much, why and at what cost energy is being consumed will require many people in various departments and functions to work together.
The goal of energy management is similar to the Trias Energetica concept and aims to reduce energy waste, increase energy-efficiency of remaining energy consumers and increase the share of renewable energy. These days companies are confronted with ever more reasons to implement energy management: from legislative issues and stakeholder pressure to corporate vision and global competition. Energy costs money and represents risk and therefore needs to be properly managed.
Probably the biggest problem regarding energy consumption and its related costs is the so-called invisible nature of energy. Since electricity and gas always seem to be available yet usually not physically visible, people tend not to think about it and take energy for granted. This in turn explains the common lack of even a basic insight into the various streams of energy and their related costs. Logically, a lack of insight also leads to a lack of priority and/or commitment and to a lack of resources dedicated to addressing the issue. Nevertheless, more and more companies (especially multinationals in energy-intensive industries) have taken to implementing the international ISO50001 standard for energy management. In a similar manner to other quality system standards, this standard is aimed at structurally embedding energy management within the entire organization.
While a certified energy management system certainly has value, it may be overkill for many organizations. A simplified and pragmatic approach may even lead to quicker results and higher levels of enthusiasm among the staff. Management commitment however is a must, since resources will be needed to gain insight into the energy streams and to implement optimization projects. Understanding where, when, how much, why and at what cost energy is being consumed will require many people in various departments and functions to work together.
Environmental Impact Assessment of Prototype Greenhouse Installation_draftAntonis Antoniou
Recent intensification of agriculture, and the prospects of future intensification, will have major impacts on the nonagricultural terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems of the world (Tilman, 1998). The doubling of agricultural food production during the past 35 years was associated with a 6.87-fold increase in nitrogen fertilization, a 3.48-fold increase in phosphorus fertilization, a 1.68-fold increase in the amount of irrigated cropland, and a 1.1-fold increase in land cultivation (Tilman, 1998).
Around half the EU's land is farmed. Farming is important for the EU's natural environment. Farming and nature influence each other (EC, 2012):
Farming has contributed over the centuries to creating and maintaining a unique countryside. Agricultural land management has been a positive force for the development of the rich variety of landscapes and habitats, including a mosaic of woodlands, wetlands, and extensive tracts of an open countryside.
The ecological integrity and the scenic value of landscapes make rural areas attractive for the establishment of enterprises, for places to live, and for the tourist and recreation businesses.
The links between the richness of the natural environment and farming practices are complex (EC, 2012). Many valuable habitats in Europe are maintained by extensive farming, and a wide range of wild species rely on this for their survival (EC, 2012). However, inappropriate agricultural practices and land use can also have an adverse impact on natural resources, such as (EC, 2012):
pollution of soil, water and air,
fragmentation of habitats and
loss of wildlife.
The Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) has identified three priority areas for action to protect and enhance the EU's rural heritage (EC, 2012):
Biodiversity and the preservation and development of 'natural' farming and forestry systems, and traditional agricultural landscapes;
Water management and use;
Dealing with climate change.
Behind-the-meter energy storage systems for renewables integrationBruno De Wachter
This paper explores renewables-linked behind-the-meter energy storage systems. It explores applications which can be performed with such systems, including the business model behind such applications and the duty cycle requirements of such applications. It also explores siting and technology choices, including battery types, inverter classifications and other purchasing and installation considerations.
Satellite Electric Propulsion Market to reach $1,027.3 million in 2032. Satellite Electric Propulsion Industry technology companies have witnessed the demand from the growing commercial industry.
Read Report Overview: https://bisresearch.com/industry-report/satellite-electric-propulsion-market.html
Get Free Sample: https://bisresearch.com/requestsample?id=1358&type=download
A new generation of instruments and tools to monitor buildings performanceLeonardo ENERGY
What is the added value of monitoring the flexibility, comfort, and well-being of a building? How can occupants be better informed about the performance of their building? And how to optimize a building's maintenance?
The slides were presented during a webinar and roundtable with a focus on a new generation of instruments and tools to monitor buildings' performance, and their link with the Smart Readiness Indicator (SRI) for buildings as introduced in the EU's Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD).
Link to the recordings: https://youtu.be/ZCFhmldvRA0
Addressing the Energy Efficiency First Principle in a National Energy and Cli...Leonardo ENERGY
When designing energy and climate policies, EU Member States have to apply the Energy Efficiency First Principle: priority should be given to measures reducing energy consumption before other decarbonization interventions are adopted. This webinar summarizes elements of the energy and climate policy of Cyprus illustrating how national authorities have addressed this principle so far, and outline challenges towards its much more rigorous implementation that is required in the coming years.
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Similar to Assessing Flexibility for Wind Powered Industrial Processes
Electric motor performance testing and reliability assessmentLeonardo ENERGY
At the heart of a Motor Management Reliability Programme (MMRP) is the use of cost effective Condition Monitoring. The benefits are that this:
reduces the risk of unexpected or premature failures;
facilitates maintenance to be scheduled at the most appropriate and least disruptive times; and
helps minimise the cost and impact of unnecessary maintenance interventions.
Condition monitoring of a motor can range from undertaking occasional but regular tests to continuous real-time monitoring. Central to determining what level of condition monitoring is appropriate is the need to understand the criticality of each motor – what is the likelihood of failure, and how severe are the consequences? The starting point for this is a careful review of each motor on site. Related to this is the question of what to do when a motor fails; should it be replaced or repaired?
This report also considers how the many benefits of condition monitoring and maintenance should be balanced against the increased failures that may occur due to the infant mortality of replacement components, or from the mistakes that might occur during any intrusive intervention.
The second part of this application note acts as a guide to the selection of equipment and monitoring methods, and the frequency at which they should be employed. The tests reviewed include temperature monitoring, vibration monitoring, oil analysis and various electrical tests. This allows the selection of test equipment and methods in line with budget and in house skills.
The goal of energy management is similar to the Trias Energetica concept and aims to reduce energy waste, increase energy-efficiency of remaining energy consumers and increase the share of renewable energy. These days companies are confronted with ever more reasons to implement energy management: from legislative issues and stakeholder pressure to corporate vision and global competition. Energy costs money and represents risk and therefore needs to be properly managed.
Probably the biggest problem regarding energy consumption and its related costs is the so-called invisible nature of energy. Since electricity and gas always seem to be available yet usually not physically visible, people tend not to think about it and take energy for granted. This in turn explains the common lack of even a basic insight into the various streams of energy and their related costs. Logically, a lack of insight also leads to a lack of priority and/or commitment and to a lack of resources dedicated to addressing the issue. Nevertheless, more and more companies (especially multinationals in energy-intensive industries) have taken to implementing the international ISO50001 standard for energy management. In a similar manner to other quality system standards, this standard is aimed at structurally embedding energy management within the entire organization.
While a certified energy management system certainly has value, it may be overkill for many organizations. A simplified and pragmatic approach may even lead to quicker results and higher levels of enthusiasm among the staff. Management commitment however is a must, since resources will be needed to gain insight into the energy streams and to implement optimization projects. Understanding where, when, how much, why and at what cost energy is being consumed will require many people in various departments and functions to work together.
The goal of energy management is similar to the Trias Energetica concept and aims to reduce energy waste, increase energy-efficiency of remaining energy consumers and increase the share of renewable energy. These days companies are confronted with ever more reasons to implement energy management: from legislative issues and stakeholder pressure to corporate vision and global competition. Energy costs money and represents risk and therefore needs to be properly managed.
Probably the biggest problem regarding energy consumption and its related costs is the so-called invisible nature of energy. Since electricity and gas always seem to be available yet usually not physically visible, people tend not to think about it and take energy for granted. This in turn explains the common lack of even a basic insight into the various streams of energy and their related costs. Logically, a lack of insight also leads to a lack of priority and/or commitment and to a lack of resources dedicated to addressing the issue. Nevertheless, more and more companies (especially multinationals in energy-intensive industries) have taken to implementing the international ISO50001 standard for energy management. In a similar manner to other quality system standards, this standard is aimed at structurally embedding energy management within the entire organization.
While a certified energy management system certainly has value, it may be overkill for many organizations. A simplified and pragmatic approach may even lead to quicker results and higher levels of enthusiasm among the staff. Management commitment however is a must, since resources will be needed to gain insight into the energy streams and to implement optimization projects. Understanding where, when, how much, why and at what cost energy is being consumed will require many people in various departments and functions to work together.
Environmental Impact Assessment of Prototype Greenhouse Installation_draftAntonis Antoniou
Recent intensification of agriculture, and the prospects of future intensification, will have major impacts on the nonagricultural terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems of the world (Tilman, 1998). The doubling of agricultural food production during the past 35 years was associated with a 6.87-fold increase in nitrogen fertilization, a 3.48-fold increase in phosphorus fertilization, a 1.68-fold increase in the amount of irrigated cropland, and a 1.1-fold increase in land cultivation (Tilman, 1998).
Around half the EU's land is farmed. Farming is important for the EU's natural environment. Farming and nature influence each other (EC, 2012):
Farming has contributed over the centuries to creating and maintaining a unique countryside. Agricultural land management has been a positive force for the development of the rich variety of landscapes and habitats, including a mosaic of woodlands, wetlands, and extensive tracts of an open countryside.
The ecological integrity and the scenic value of landscapes make rural areas attractive for the establishment of enterprises, for places to live, and for the tourist and recreation businesses.
The links between the richness of the natural environment and farming practices are complex (EC, 2012). Many valuable habitats in Europe are maintained by extensive farming, and a wide range of wild species rely on this for their survival (EC, 2012). However, inappropriate agricultural practices and land use can also have an adverse impact on natural resources, such as (EC, 2012):
pollution of soil, water and air,
fragmentation of habitats and
loss of wildlife.
The Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) has identified three priority areas for action to protect and enhance the EU's rural heritage (EC, 2012):
Biodiversity and the preservation and development of 'natural' farming and forestry systems, and traditional agricultural landscapes;
Water management and use;
Dealing with climate change.
Behind-the-meter energy storage systems for renewables integrationBruno De Wachter
This paper explores renewables-linked behind-the-meter energy storage systems. It explores applications which can be performed with such systems, including the business model behind such applications and the duty cycle requirements of such applications. It also explores siting and technology choices, including battery types, inverter classifications and other purchasing and installation considerations.
Satellite Electric Propulsion Market to reach $1,027.3 million in 2032. Satellite Electric Propulsion Industry technology companies have witnessed the demand from the growing commercial industry.
Read Report Overview: https://bisresearch.com/industry-report/satellite-electric-propulsion-market.html
Get Free Sample: https://bisresearch.com/requestsample?id=1358&type=download
A new generation of instruments and tools to monitor buildings performanceLeonardo ENERGY
What is the added value of monitoring the flexibility, comfort, and well-being of a building? How can occupants be better informed about the performance of their building? And how to optimize a building's maintenance?
The slides were presented during a webinar and roundtable with a focus on a new generation of instruments and tools to monitor buildings' performance, and their link with the Smart Readiness Indicator (SRI) for buildings as introduced in the EU's Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD).
Link to the recordings: https://youtu.be/ZCFhmldvRA0
Addressing the Energy Efficiency First Principle in a National Energy and Cli...Leonardo ENERGY
When designing energy and climate policies, EU Member States have to apply the Energy Efficiency First Principle: priority should be given to measures reducing energy consumption before other decarbonization interventions are adopted. This webinar summarizes elements of the energy and climate policy of Cyprus illustrating how national authorities have addressed this principle so far, and outline challenges towards its much more rigorous implementation that is required in the coming years.
Auctions for energy efficiency and the experience of renewablesLeonardo ENERGY
Auctions are an emerging market-based policy instrument to promote energy efficiency that has started to gain traction in the EU and worldwide. This presentation provides an overview and comparison of several energy efficiency auctions and derives conclusions on the effects of design elements based on auction theory and on experiences of renewable energy auctions. We include examples from energy efficiency auctions in Brazil, Canada, Germany, Portugal, Switzerland, Taiwan, UK, and US.
A recording of this presentation can be viewed at:
https://youtu.be/aC0h4cXI9Ug
Energy efficiency first – retrofitting the building stock finalLeonardo ENERGY
Retrofitting the building stock is a challenging undertaking in many respects - including costs. Can it nevertheless qualify as a measure under the Energy Efficiency First principle? Which methods can be applied for the assessment and what are the results in terms of the cost-effectiveness of retrofitting the entire residential building stock? How do the results differ for minimization of energy use, CO2 emissions and costs? And which policy conclusions can be drawn?
This presentation was used during the 18th webinar in the Odyssee-Mure on Energy Efficiency Academy on February 3, 2022.
A link to the recording: https://youtu.be/4pw_9hpA_64
How auction design affects the financing of renewable energy projects Leonardo ENERGY
Recording available at https://youtu.be/lPT1o735kOk
Renewable energy auctions might affect the financing of renewable energy (RE) projects. This webinar presents the results of the AURES II project exploring this topic. It discusses how auction designs ranging from bid bonds to penalties and remuneration schemes impact financing and discusses creating a low-risk auction support framework.
This presentation discusses the contribution of Energy Efficiency Funds to the financing of energy efficiency in Europe. The analysis is based on the MURE database on energy efficiency policies. As an example, the German Energy Efficiency Fund is described in more detail.
This is the 17th webinar in the Odyssee-Mure on Energy Efficiency Academy.
Recordings are available on: https://youtu.be/KIewOQCgQWQ
(see updated version of this presentation:
https://www.slideshare.net/sustenergy/energy-efficiency-funds-in-europe-updated)
The Energy Efficiency First Principle is a key pillar of the European Green Deal. A prerequisite for its widespread application is to secure financing for energy efficiency investments.
This presentation discusses the contribution of Energy Efficiency Funds to the financing of energy efficiency in Europe. The analysis is based on the MURE database on energy efficiency policies. As an example, the German Energy Efficiency Fund is described in more detail.
This is the 17th webinar in the Odyssee-Mure on Energy Efficiency Academy.
Recordings are available on: https://youtu.be/KIewOQCgQWQ
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During the first year of the H2020 project streamSAVE, multiple activities were organized to support countries in developing savings estimations under Art.3 and Art.7 of the Energy Efficiency Directive (EED).
A fascinating output of the project so far is the “Guidance on Standardized saving methodologies (energy, CO2 and costs)” for a first round of five so-called Priority Actions. This Guidance will assist EU member states in more accurately calculating savings for a set of new energy efficiency actions.
This webinar presents this Guidance and other project findings to the broader community, including industry and markets.
AGENDA
14:00 Introduction to streamSAVE
(Nele Renders, Project Coordinator)
14:10 Views from the EU Commission and the link with Fit-for-55 (Anne-Katherina Weidenbach, DG ENER)
14:20 The streamSAVE guidance and its platform illustrated (Elisabeth Böck, AEA)
14:55 A view from industry: What is the added value of streamSAVE (standardized) methods in frame of the EED (Conor Molloy, AEMS ECOfleet)
14:55 Country experiences: the added value of standardized methods (Elena Allegrini, ENEA, Italy)
The recordings of the webinar can be found on https://youtu.be/eUht10cUK1o
This webinar analyses energy efficiency trends in the EU for the period 2014-2019 and the impact of COVID-19 in 2020 (based on estimates from Enerdata).
The speakers present the overall trend in total energy supply and in final energy consumption, as well as details by sector, alongside macro-economic data. They will explain the main drivers of the variation in energy consumption since 2014 and determine the impact of energy savings.
Speakers:
Laura Sudries, Senior Energy Efficiency Analyst, Enerdata
Bruno Lapillonne, Scientific Director, Enerdata
The recordings of the presentation (webinar) can be viewed at:
https://youtu.be/8RuK5MroTxk
Energy and mobility poverty: Will the Social Climate Fund be enough to delive...Leonardo ENERGY
Prior to the current soaring energy prices across Europe, the European Commission proposed, as part of the FitFor55 climate and energy package, the EU Social Climate Fund to mitigate the expected social impact of extending the EU ETS to transport and heating.
The report presented in this webinar provides an update of the European Energy Poverty Index, published for the first time in 2019, which shows the combined effect of energy and mobility poverty across Member States. Beyond the regular update of the index, the report provides analysis of the existing EU policy framework related to energy and transport poverty. France is used as a case study given the “yellow vest” movement, which was triggered by the proposed carbon tax on fuels.
Watch the recordings of the webinar:
https://youtu.be/i1Jdd3H05t0
Does the EU Emission Trading Scheme ETS Promote Energy Efficiency?Leonardo ENERGY
This policy brief analyzes the main interacting mechanisms between the Energy Efficiency Directive (EED) and the EU Emission Trading Scheme (ETS). It presents a detailed top-down approach, based on the ODYSSEE energy indicators, to identify energy savings from the EU ETS.
The main task consists in isolating those factors that contribute to the change in energy consumption of industrial branches covered by the EU ETS, and the energy transformation sector (mainly the electricity sector).
Speaker:
Wolfgang Eichhammer (Head of the Competence Center Energy Policy and Energy Markets @Fraunhofer Institute for Systems and Innovation Research ISI)
The recordings of this webinar can be watched via:
https://youtu.be/TS6PxIvtaKY
Energy efficiency, structural change and energy savings in the manufacturing ...Leonardo ENERGY
The first part of the presentations presents the energy efficiency improvements in the manufacturing sector since 2000, and the role of structural change between the different branches and energy savings. It will compare the improvements in Denmark and other countries with EU average. This part is based on ODYSSEE data.
The second part of the presentation presents the development in Denmark in more detail, and it will compare the energy efficiency improvement, corrected for structural change, with the reported savings from the Energy Efficiency Obligation Scheme.
Recordings of the live webinar are on https://youtu.be/VVAdw_CS51A
Energy Sufficiency Indicators and Policies (Lea Gynther, Motiva)Leonardo ENERGY
This policy brief looks at questions ‘how to measure energy sufficiency’, ‘which policies and measures can be used to address energy sufficiency’ and ‘how they are used in Europe today’.
Energy sufficiency refers to a situation where everyone has access to the energy services they need, whilst the impacts of the energy system do not exceed environmental limits. The level of ambition needed to address energy sufficiency is higher than in the case of energy efficiency.
This is the 13th edition of the Odyssee-Mure on Energy Efficiency Academy, and number 519 in the Leonardo ENERGY series. The recording of the live presentation can be found on https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jEAdYbI0wDI&list=PLUFRNkTrB5O_V155aGXfZ4b3R0fvT7sKz
The Super-efficient Equipment and Appliance Deployment (SEAD) Initiative Prod...Leonardo ENERGY
The Super-efficient Equipment and Appliance Deployment (SEAD) Initiative Product Efficiency Call to Action, by Melanie Slade - IEA and Nicholas Jeffrey - UK BEIS
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Our project explains about the student management. This project mainly explains the various actions related to student details. This project shows some ease in adding, editing and deleting the student details. It also provides a less time consuming process for viewing, adding, editing and deleting the marks of the students.
Hierarchical Digital Twin of a Naval Power SystemKerry Sado
A hierarchical digital twin of a Naval DC power system has been developed and experimentally verified. Similar to other state-of-the-art digital twins, this technology creates a digital replica of the physical system executed in real-time or faster, which can modify hardware controls. However, its advantage stems from distributing computational efforts by utilizing a hierarchical structure composed of lower-level digital twin blocks and a higher-level system digital twin. Each digital twin block is associated with a physical subsystem of the hardware and communicates with a singular system digital twin, which creates a system-level response. By extracting information from each level of the hierarchy, power system controls of the hardware were reconfigured autonomously. This hierarchical digital twin development offers several advantages over other digital twins, particularly in the field of naval power systems. The hierarchical structure allows for greater computational efficiency and scalability while the ability to autonomously reconfigure hardware controls offers increased flexibility and responsiveness. The hierarchical decomposition and models utilized were well aligned with the physical twin, as indicated by the maximum deviations between the developed digital twin hierarchy and the hardware.
CFD Simulation of By-pass Flow in a HRSG module by R&R Consult.pptxR&R Consult
CFD analysis is incredibly effective at solving mysteries and improving the performance of complex systems!
Here's a great example: At a large natural gas-fired power plant, where they use waste heat to generate steam and energy, they were puzzled that their boiler wasn't producing as much steam as expected.
R&R and Tetra Engineering Group Inc. were asked to solve the issue with reduced steam production.
An inspection had shown that a significant amount of hot flue gas was bypassing the boiler tubes, where the heat was supposed to be transferred.
R&R Consult conducted a CFD analysis, which revealed that 6.3% of the flue gas was bypassing the boiler tubes without transferring heat. The analysis also showed that the flue gas was instead being directed along the sides of the boiler and between the modules that were supposed to capture the heat. This was the cause of the reduced performance.
Based on our results, Tetra Engineering installed covering plates to reduce the bypass flow. This improved the boiler's performance and increased electricity production.
It is always satisfying when we can help solve complex challenges like this. Do your systems also need a check-up or optimization? Give us a call!
Work done in cooperation with James Malloy and David Moelling from Tetra Engineering.
More examples of our work https://www.r-r-consult.dk/en/cases-en/
Welcome to WIPAC Monthly the magazine brought to you by the LinkedIn Group Water Industry Process Automation & Control.
In this month's edition, along with this month's industry news to celebrate the 13 years since the group was created we have articles including
A case study of the used of Advanced Process Control at the Wastewater Treatment works at Lleida in Spain
A look back on an article on smart wastewater networks in order to see how the industry has measured up in the interim around the adoption of Digital Transformation in the Water Industry.
Overview of the fundamental roles in Hydropower generation and the components involved in wider Electrical Engineering.
This paper presents the design and construction of hydroelectric dams from the hydrologist’s survey of the valley before construction, all aspects and involved disciplines, fluid dynamics, structural engineering, generation and mains frequency regulation to the very transmission of power through the network in the United Kingdom.
Author: Robbie Edward Sayers
Collaborators and co editors: Charlie Sims and Connor Healey.
(C) 2024 Robbie E. Sayers
Final project report on grocery store management system..pdfKamal Acharya
In today’s fast-changing business environment, it’s extremely important to be able to respond to client needs in the most effective and timely manner. If your customers wish to see your business online and have instant access to your products or services.
Online Grocery Store is an e-commerce website, which retails various grocery products. This project allows viewing various products available enables registered users to purchase desired products instantly using Paytm, UPI payment processor (Instant Pay) and also can place order by using Cash on Delivery (Pay Later) option. This project provides an easy access to Administrators and Managers to view orders placed using Pay Later and Instant Pay options.
In order to develop an e-commerce website, a number of Technologies must be studied and understood. These include multi-tiered architecture, server and client-side scripting techniques, implementation technologies, programming language (such as PHP, HTML, CSS, JavaScript) and MySQL relational databases. This is a project with the objective to develop a basic website where a consumer is provided with a shopping cart website and also to know about the technologies used to develop such a website.
This document will discuss each of the underlying technologies to create and implement an e- commerce website.
Hybrid optimization of pumped hydro system and solar- Engr. Abdul-Azeez.pdffxintegritypublishin
Advancements in technology unveil a myriad of electrical and electronic breakthroughs geared towards efficiently harnessing limited resources to meet human energy demands. The optimization of hybrid solar PV panels and pumped hydro energy supply systems plays a pivotal role in utilizing natural resources effectively. This initiative not only benefits humanity but also fosters environmental sustainability. The study investigated the design optimization of these hybrid systems, focusing on understanding solar radiation patterns, identifying geographical influences on solar radiation, formulating a mathematical model for system optimization, and determining the optimal configuration of PV panels and pumped hydro storage. Through a comparative analysis approach and eight weeks of data collection, the study addressed key research questions related to solar radiation patterns and optimal system design. The findings highlighted regions with heightened solar radiation levels, showcasing substantial potential for power generation and emphasizing the system's efficiency. Optimizing system design significantly boosted power generation, promoted renewable energy utilization, and enhanced energy storage capacity. The study underscored the benefits of optimizing hybrid solar PV panels and pumped hydro energy supply systems for sustainable energy usage. Optimizing the design of solar PV panels and pumped hydro energy supply systems as examined across diverse climatic conditions in a developing country, not only enhances power generation but also improves the integration of renewable energy sources and boosts energy storage capacities, particularly beneficial for less economically prosperous regions. Additionally, the study provides valuable insights for advancing energy research in economically viable areas. Recommendations included conducting site-specific assessments, utilizing advanced modeling tools, implementing regular maintenance protocols, and enhancing communication among system components.
Hybrid optimization of pumped hydro system and solar- Engr. Abdul-Azeez.pdf
Assessing Flexibility for Wind Powered Industrial Processes
1. APPLICATION NOTE
ASSESSING FLEXIBILITY FOR WIND POWERED
INDUSTRIAL PROCESSES
Aedan Kernan and Greenwell Consulting
March 2019
ECI Publication No Cu0202
Available from www.leonardo-energy.org
3. Publication No Cu0202
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CONTENTS
Summary ........................................................................................................................................................ 1
Introduction.................................................................................................................................................... 2
Multiple advantages...............................................................................................................................................2
Self-generation with self-consumption ..................................................................................................................2
Microgrids...............................................................................................................................................................3
Flexibility checklist.......................................................................................................................................... 4
General aspects ......................................................................................................................................................4
Energy efficiency ......................................................................................................................................5
Efficient energy storage ...........................................................................................................................5
Time behaviour ........................................................................................................................................5
Partload-ability.........................................................................................................................................5
Overload-ability........................................................................................................................................6
Synchrony.................................................................................................................................................6
Adaptation in short timescales.................................................................................................................6
Adaptation over longer timescales ..........................................................................................................6
Activation effort .......................................................................................................................................6
Is the concept proven?.............................................................................................................................6
Points for consideration .........................................................................................................................................7
Energy storage is a primary concern ........................................................................................................7
Partload-ability is also key........................................................................................................................7
Flexibility audit............................................................................................................................................... 9
Identification ..........................................................................................................................................................9
Quantification.........................................................................................................................................................9
Time..........................................................................................................................................................9
Power .......................................................................................................................................................9
Energy.....................................................................................................................................................10
Frequency...............................................................................................................................................10
Valorization...........................................................................................................................................................10
Implementation....................................................................................................................................................10
Points for consideration .......................................................................................................................................10
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Quantification.........................................................................................................................................11
Energy-efficient storage .........................................................................................................................11
Frequency...............................................................................................................................................11
Unexpected discoveries .........................................................................................................................11
Cost of adaptation..................................................................................................................................11
Revenue-generating opportunities ........................................................................................................12
The value of process flexibility ...............................................................................................................12
Flexibility in business clusters...............................................................................................................................12
Conclusion .................................................................................................................................................... 14
References.................................................................................................................................................... 15
5. Publication No Cu0202
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SUMMARY
The concept of flexibility in industrial electricity consumption is not new, but company managers tend to know
little about its true value and how it can be monetized. A familiar and straightforward example of flexibility
involves permanently adapting the electricity consumption of industrial processes to the hour-by-hour
differences in electricity prices or feed-in-tariffs. The flexibility discussed in this Application Note, however,
relates to more advanced measures that enable loads to be automatically adapted based on the moment-by-
moment conditions. Such dynamic flexibility makes it possible to maximize self-consumption of on-site wind
power. By extension, it can also serve other purposes, such as valorizing this flexibility on the energy market or
maximizing self-consumption of other variable output renewable energy systems.
Two methods to assess the flexibility potential of industrial processes are discussed.
The first method – the ‘Flexibility Checklist’ – sets out ten criteria to assess the capacity of an industrial process
to operate flexibly. Companies can score themselves against each criterion. The Flexibility Checklist provides a
quick and easy assessment of potential problems that could arise when industrial processes are powered using
on-site wind turbines, although it is not sufficiently rigorous to fully inform final decision-making.
The second method – the ‘Flexibility Audit’ – starts with a comprehensive assessment of an industrial site’s
potential for flexibility and seeks to determine potential flexibilities right down to individual device level. The
auditors adopt an open-minded approach so that they can uncover flexibility where it might not be
anticipated. Data from the audit are combined with data on company power consumption and business
processes to model optimum solutions. The Flexibility Audit requires greater commitment from the company,
but delivers results that are built on tested data.
Researchers modeling with the Flexibility Checklist and the Flexibility Audit have identified strong business
cases. From a technological point of view there are no insurmountable barriers to the concept and, if
circumstances are favorable, flexible industrial processes powered by on site wind energy could be of real
benefit to industrial companies daring to make the move.
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INTRODUCTION
This Application Note discusses two methods for company decision-makers to test whether their industrial
processes are suitable to be powered by on-site wind power. Both methods depend on a company’s ability to
operate flexibly in response to fluctuations in power supply because of the intermittent nature of wind.
In Europe’s energy-intensive industries, a potential for approximately 68 GW of on-site wind power has been
identified [1], and this figure is only the beginning.
MULTIPLE ADVANTAGES
Most of the lifecycle costs of a wind turbine are incurred at the time of installation. Consequently, a wind
turbine owner can predict with relative certainty the cost of the power that will be generated over the lifetime
of the turbine. This is in contrast to the unpredictability of future wholesale electricity market prices and
future fossil fuel costs. By generating power from wind on site, companies can meet some or all of their own
power needs. They can avoid charges for grid services as well as the costs and taxes associated with the
purchase of electricity.
The use of non-polluting fuels can also bring reputational benefits to the company.
SELF-GENERATION WITH SELF-CONSUMPTION
As the cost of wind power generation drops, European governments have reduced the level of feed-in tariff
they are prepared to pay. This encourages increased self-consumption.
When feed-in tariffs are higher than the cost of grid power, companies are incentivized to sell all their wind
power to the grid and to purchase all their consumption needs back from the grid. As feed-in tariffs move
closer to wholesale market prices, some self-consumption combined with load management becomes the best
economic choice. When the cost of grid power is greater than the feed-in tariff, maximum consumption of on-
site wind power is the most rational option.
Consumption of wind energy close to the point of generation reduces both the energy demands on the grid
and the levels of potentially destabilizing intermittent supply entering the grid. Until now, there has been little
incentive for transmission and distribution companies to encourage self-generation and consumption, but that
situation may evolve with the increasing penetration of renewables on the grid. Some parties are considering
charging renewable energy generators for the right to feed electricity into the grid when supply levels are high
and demand low.
Flexible industrial energy consumption can also create revenue-generating opportunities. Companies able to
provide or consume power in response to Balancing Responsible Parties’ requests may be able to charge for
that service.
The tools to manage wind-integrated industrial processes already exist. Demand Side Management (DSM) has
become increasingly familiar to companies with energy-intensive processes. The same DSM software tools that
allow companies to manage their power demand in response to market price signals can also be used to
manage demand in response to weather signals.
The first question for any company contemplating a move to wind-integrated industrial processes is whether
they have the process flexibility to exploit these opportunities. This Application Note discusses two methods
that will help answer that question.
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MICROGRIDS
A potentially interesting solution to improve the level of flexibility required for on-site wind integration in
industrial environments is a microgrid combining generation, consumption and storage with the possibility of
connecting or disconnecting to the grid at each instant. However, the current robustness of the European
electricity grid does not encourage the development of microgrids, since the benefits are not yet apparent to
distribution or transmission system operators. This also means that microgrid installations do not yet offer
attractive returns in most cases. Although a mature market of flexibility through microgrids has not yet been
achieved, EU-funded projects aim to lay the foundations for the future development of the concept.
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FLEXIBILITY CHECKLIST
GENERAL ASPECTS
The first flexibility-testing method to be outlined in this Application Note is the Flexibility Checklist. It can
identify issues very quickly, but it is not a final decision-making tool. It does not investigate the company’s
processes in depth.
Prior to using the Flexibility Checklist, two questions should be addressed:
1. What is the cost of on-site wind energy generation compared to the cost of power purchase from the
local grid? That establishes whether on-site wind power generation would provide an adequate
return to justify investment.
2. Should the power generated by the wind turbine be consumed on site or sold to the grid? To assess
that question a comparison is needed between the feed-in tariff paid for electricity sales to the grid
and the cost of power purchases from the grid.
If the outcome of that investigation is a finding that it would be best to consume the electricity on site, the
next question is whether the processes are flexible enough to cope with variability of power supply. This can
be addressed using the Flexibility Checklist, which consists of 10 characteristics that are placed in a checklist
matrix and given a ‘traffic light’ score. Green, if it adds high flexibility, Orange if it provides medium flexibility
or if the assumed flexibility is untested, and Red if it is a barrier to process flexibility.
The Flexibility Checklist was originally designed to assess the suitability of large-scale energy-intensive
industrial processes for on-site wind power. The 8-point checklist omitted two key issues: how efficiently
companies used energy and how efficiently they stored energy. The original checklist assumed that the
industrial processes consumed as little power as possible, and that all thermal storage units, such as cold
stores, are well-insulated to minimize energy loss. However, for smaller-scale processes or for businesses
where energy is not such a crucial element in total costs, the energy efficiency and efficient thermal storage of
processes cannot be assumed, because they may not be as closely scrutinized. Therefore, two extra points
have been added to the Flexibility Checklist.
The 10 characteristics are placed in a checklist matrix and given a ‘traffic light’ score. Green, if it adds high
flexibility, Orange if it provides medium flexibility or if the assumed flexibility is untested, and Red if it is a
barrier to process flexibility.
The matrix below shows the scoring for some of Europe’s largescale industrial sectors. Below the matrix, the
10 characteristics are explained in greater depth:
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Energyefficiency
Energystorage
Timebehaviour
Overload-ability
Partload-ability
Synchrony
Powergradient-Short
timescale
Powergradient-Long
timescale
Activationeffort
Developmentstate
Overallscore
Chlorine-
Alkali
production
High High Continuous High High Yes Low High Low Proven High
Aluminium
production
High High Continuous Medium Medium Yes High Medium Low Conceptual Medium
E-steel
making
High High Batch Low High
No
(material)
Medium High Medium Conceptual Low
Cold storage High High
Continuous
/ Batch
Medium Medium Yes High Medium Low Conceptual Medium
Desalination High High Continuous High High Yes Medium High Low Demo High
Table 1 – The flexibility checklist for a few major, largescale industrial sectors in Europe.
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
The starting point for any flexibility investigation should be to analyze whether the process operates with as
little energy consumption as possible. Minimum energy consumption will prevent installation of an over-
capacity of renewable energy alternatives. It will also help minimize energy costs.
EFFICIENT ENERGY STORAGE
To operate flexibly, many industrial processes will need stores or buffers to enable processing to continue at
times when little power is available. Those buffers could take a range of forms. It might be a requirement to
store heat, to keep areas cold, or to store gases or liquid under pressure, for example. Losses of heat, cold or
pressure by those stores will need to be replaced and the supply of replacement energy is a cost that needs to
be taken into account when assessing the value of a move to flexible operation. For example, a well-insulated
(and therefore energy-efficient) cold storage unit can be operated flexibly at lower cost than poorly insulated
units, because it can be kept within its temperature limits more easily during power supply variations.
If improvements in energy storage will be needed for viable flexible operation, the capital costs of storage
improvements will need to be added as a cost, when calculating whether flexible operation would offer the
required return on investment.
TIME BEHAVIOUR
Some industrial processes can be slowed or speeded up easily, while others do not offer the same flexibility.
Continuous processes tend to be more appropriate for power by wind than batch processes, because the
energy demand of a continuous process is more uniform and could be matched more easily to the fluctuating
power supply. However, the line separating continuous from batch processes is not always clear.
PARTLOAD-ABILITY
A process is partload-able if it is technically possible to run the core process below nominal operation levels in
response to dips in energy supply.
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If a process is not partload-able, it may be possible to get around the difficulty by splitting it into two or more
smaller-scale processes that can be run in parallel when there is sufficient power available to operate at full
load.
OVERLOAD-ABILITY
The ability to operate an industrial process temporarily at higher rates when excess power is available provides
considerable scope for flexible operation with on-site wind power.
Many industrial processes offer overload-ability at a price. Nominal operating conditions are decided by
balancing operational costs against the value of the output. Therefore, increases in output would be
acceptable where operational costs can be lowered. On-site wind power can often provide those lower
operational costs, because it provides electricity that is effectively free.
According to the Confederation of European Paper Industries, investment in additional electrically powered
boilers and drying processes would enable the European pulp and paper industries to provide considerable
overload-ability. Where capital investment would be needed to provide overload-ability, any reductions in
energy costs that result from the investment also need to be taken into account.
Overload-ability in upstream or downstream processes can provide an opportunity to create buffers around an
inflexible central process during periods of high power availability. Those buffers may enable the central
process to continue to operate at a constant rate during periods of low power availability.
SYNCHRONY
If upstream and downstream processes can smoothly and automatically adapt to variations in the rate of the
core process, the process provides synchrony. High levels of synchrony make a process well-suited to wind-
power.
ADAPTATION IN SHORT TIMESCALES
A process’s ability to adapt in minutes or seconds to fluctuations in available power makes it highly suitable to
be supplied by on-site wind power. In practice, the ability to adapt rapidly implies overload- or partload-ability.
ADAPTATION OVER LONGER TIMESCALES
To gain maximum benefit from the available wind power, it is necessary to bring the time-series of power
generation and power consumption into line. A process that can adapt continuously to long-term and larger-
scale changes through overload- or partload-ability is more advantageous than processes where flexibility is
only possible in discrete adaptations.
The power output function of a wind turbine is a priori a continuous one, therefore the optimal power
consumption function will be continuous as well. In other words, a process that can only adapt in steps will
normally not adapt as closely as a continuous one.
ACTIVATION EFFORT
The activation effort required to start up a process or to shut it down will affect the adaptability of the process
to wind power supply.
IS THE CONCEPT PROVEN?
If a process has been proven to operate flexibly, it should be given greater weight by the decision-maker than a
process that has merely a theoretical potential to adapt to intermittent power. There is no substitute for
proven experience.
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POINTS FOR CONSIDERATION
The Flexibility Checklist has been used to identify previously unconsidered opportunities to install 68 GW of
new wind power serving five major energy-intensive industrial sectors in Europe [
1
(see ‘Flexible Industrial
Processes: a valuable tool to accommodate big scale variable renewables’).
The checklist, as set out here, is not sufficiently thorough to support a final decision to invest in on-site wind
power. However, it can act as a ready guide when a project is being scoped. It will highlight some potential
barriers to process flexibility.
The Flexibility Checklist should be used carefully. It appears to rank and assess its ten characteristics equally. In
fact, some are more important than others.
ENERGY STORAGE IS A PRIMARY CONCERN
If flexible operation at reasonable cost requires major investment in energy storage, flexible operation may
not be possible. Therefore it is vital to consider at an early stage what energy storage a flexible process will
require, whether that energy storage will need capital investment, and whether that capital investment is so
high that it nullifies the gains from flexible operation.
PARTLOAD-ABILITY IS ALSO KEY
Partload-ability should also be a priority consideration. It is extremely difficult to build in flexibility to a process
that cannot be operated at partload. However, there may be ways around an apparent lack of partload-ability.
For example, some processes can be broken down into smaller scale processes running in parallel. When
available power reduces, one or more of the smaller-scale processes can be shut down.
The Flexibility Checklist criteria were applied in an assessment of some of the largest energy-intensive
industries in Europe. The method identified the highest potential in chlorine-alkali-electrolysis by membrane
cells. This continuous process is already variably operated because the process capacity depends on the
demand and market prices of chlorine, caustic soda and hydrogen, as well as the grid electricity tariff. The
process can be operated in partload and to some extent in overload. Other processes identified that showed
potential were desalination, primary aluminium production, and cold storage.
Electro-steelmaking provided the lowest potential of the processes studied. It is mostly operated as a batch
process with no potential for overload-ability. Electro-steelmaking requires significant effort for activation
(adjusting the supply and preparation of the raw materials and of the post-processing of the variable flow of
molten metal). In order to achieve a high yield from the expensive electric arc furnaces, the process is usually
operated at maximum capacity (therefore, no overload-ability). Assuming appropriate measures for control of
the arc voltage and arc resistance (length), the alteration of power consumption is possible but it would
require significant modifications to the furnace and electrode actuation in order to allow highly automatic and
energy-efficient processing.
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Figure 1 – Applying the Flexibility Checklist to a business site.
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FLEXIBILITY AUDIT
The Flexibility Audit is a very different tool to the Flexibility Checklist. The Flexibility Checklist provides a quick,
top-down overview of an organization’s suitability to the demand side flexibility that is needed for Wind-
Integrated processes. The Flexibility Audit, on the other hand, is a detailed investigation of the energy
flexibility of a particular industrial site (or sites). The Flexibility Audit starts with the individual machine,
individual processes, energy account centers… building a picture from the ground up.
Flexibility is not normally included or identified in standard energy audits. The following four-step Flexibility
Audit to identify a company’s ability to manage its power flexibly is unique. The method was developed as part
of a project to investigate the potential for a switch to on-site wind power in some of the largest ports of
Northern Europe.
The four steps in the flexibility audit are: (a) Identification; (b) Quantification, (c) Valorization; and (d)
Implementation.
IDENTIFICATION
The audit begins with a detailed technical investigation of energy consumption and energy needs across the
organization. The investigation measures energy need and energy consumption, right down to the device level,
across the organization. Active and close involvement of local staff is encouraged – their insights and
knowledge of the device or installation under investigation will add value to the auditing process.
The flexibility auditors look at issues such as energy efficiency, energy storage and overload-ability. But they
must also remain open to the unexpected. For example, the auditors will remain attentive for over-powered
processes or under-used sources of power generation as well as the cost-management of energy resources.
QUANTIFICATION
The aim of the Quantification process is to translate the technical properties identified during the on-site
investigations into values that are independent of the type of installation: Time; Energy; Power; and
Frequency,
TIME
The key ‘time’ question is for how long, and how easily, could a facility be switched off or operated at reduced
power without exiting its ‘comfort zone’. The definition of ‘comfort zone’ is the point where the reduction in
power consumption places a major constraint on normal operations.
During Flexibility Audits at the Port of Antwerp, comfort zones were found to vary widely. Some devices could
operate on reduced power for only a few minutes, others could be switched off for days before normal
operations were constrained.
The level of business activity needs to be considered when calculating the boundaries of a comfort zone.
Therefore, it may not be possible to identify a single ‘Time’ figure. For example, a well-insulated cold store
might be able to operate without power for 24 hours during a quiet weekend, but the same cold store might
only be able to switch off the power for short periods during a busy work day when the doors are being
opened very often and product at a range of temperatures is being moved in and out.
POWER
The definition of Power in a flexibility audit is the answer to the question: “How much power can you really
switch off over a given time period?” The answer to that question should be a kW figure. The complication, of
course, is that the kW figure will vary depending on the definitions of ‘comfort zone’ and ‘time’.
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ENERGY
The energy saved is a multiple of the power saved over a given time (-kW x time = -kWh).
However, because of the wide range of variables that have some effect on power usage in a busy industrial
setting, the effects of power reductions have to be examined carefully. For example a facility could reduce its
power consumption by 2 MW for half-an-hour. However, if power was reduced by just 1 MW, the same plant
might continue within its ‘comfort zone’ for between 4 and 7 hours.
FREQUENCY
How frequently can an energy-saving event – such as switching off energy-consuming devices or moving to
partial load – take place? The more frequently such an event can occur, the more valuable it will be. If events
can only be repeated at low frequency, it may not justify the time and resources needed to enable the
flexiblity.
Ideally, the Quantification process would deliver ‘flexibility factors’ in hours, kW, kWh and frequency per year.
But, as stated above, such a definitive outcome is not possible, because the quantification is dependent on
variables such as the boundaries of the business’s energy “comfort zone”. That is a matter of business
judgment, not scientific measurement.
VALORIZATION
The outcomes from the Quantification process are fed into a series of business models. The aim is to see
whether the implementation of each flexibility factor delivers value to the business. The research team that
developed and undertook the first flexibility audit used a complex Preference Ranking Evaluation methodology
to benchmark competing energy strategies (including self-consumption of on-site wind power). The business
model delivering the highest value was identified for implementation.
IMPLEMENTATION
The original flexibility audit in the Port of Antwerp identified some major opportunities to deliver energy
savings and flexible operation in support of on-site wind power.
A facility processing sludge dredged from the Port of Antwerp’s channels offered a combination of large scale
storage and pumping overcapacity that created opportunities for energy shutdowns that could last days at a
time. Without load management, 60% of the produced wind energy from an on-site turbine could be used on-
site in this energy-intensive process. With load management, almost 80% of the wind energy could be used
locally, resulting in an overall energy cost reduction of almost 20%.
POINTS FOR CONSIDERATION
The Flexibility Audit has a number of strengths. Its conclusions are built on actual measurements at the site.
That provides solid data for analysis. It can also result in the discovery of unexpected opportunities for
flexibility. And it allows assumptions about potential flexibility to be tested.
For example, chemical processing companies often consume energy at a steady rate, 24 hours per day, 7 days
per week. However, investigations at one of the largescale chemicals plants in the Port of Antwerp discovered
that there was considerable opportunity for demand management, due to both partload- and overload-ability.
Power consumption could vary across a 10% range (+4% to -6%) for long periods without risking exiting the
chemical plant’s ‘comfort zone’.
On the other hand, assumed flexibility can disappear on investigation. It was discovered that forklift trucks at a
fruit logistics company were being charged during the late afternoon. Delaying charging to take advantage of
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the cheaper night tariffs promised considerable cost savings. However, on further investigation, it was
discovered that delayed charging risked interference with the company’s core business. The forklift trucks
needed to be available in cases where cargoes of fruit arrived ahead of schedule. Night charging was ruled out.
QUANTIFICATION
Quantification of the economic benefits from flexibility is not easy. The kW, kWh and time savings cannot be
combined to deliver a single ‘flexibility factor’. Quantification relies on simplified versions of often complex
processes for its business models.
For example, cold store flexibility depends on a wide range of factors including the insulation levels of the
building, the total thermal capacity of the stored goods, activity within the building, the temperature of the
goods on arrival and the length of time they are stored. When there are so many variables, accurate models
can be difficult to generate.
Yet, modelling exercises can identify considerable potential gains. Simulations using data from a cold store in
the Port of Antwerp suggested an on-site wind turbine and flexible power management could reduce energy
purchases at the expensive day tariff by up to 70%. Overall, energy costs could be reduced by 15%.
ENERGY-EFFICIENT STORAGE
The efficiency of energy storage – particularly thermal energy storage - is an important consideration in the
Flexibility Audit process (just as it is an important consideration in the Flexibility Checklist). It is virtually
impossible to store heat, or to store material under pressure, without some loss over time. If batteries are
used, there will always be loss of energy there too. In fact, it is usually simpler and cheaper to store product as
flexibility buffers, rather than to use stores that lose energy in one form or another over time. Storage of raw
materials, semi-finished goods or final product usually results in no, or very little, energy loss.
FREQUENCY
The more frequently a process can vary its power consumption without exiting its comfort zone, the easier it
can be integrated with on-site wind power. Frequency is an important factor when considering the value that
can be extracted from process flexibility.
UNEXPECTED DISCOVERIES
If the investigators remain open to all possibilities during the planning of an audit, completely unexpected
flexibility opportunities can emerge. For instance, diesel-electric cranes at the Port of Antwerp were
discovered as a potential power source. The cranes were in use only 25% of the time. Their generators could
be used to reduce the need for power from the grid during periods of peak – and expensive - demand.
In planning an audit, it is important that the investigations go ‘outside the box’. For instance, the Port of
Antwerp also contains thousands of refrigerated containers (known as ‘reefers’). Typically, the refrigeration
unit on a reefer will consume 10 to 15 kW of electricity per hour during its time in port. That level of power
consumption may be needed when the containers are loaded with fruit in tropical countries, but it is not
necessary to preserve the fruit in a North European port. The audit team established that the reefers could
meet refrigeration needs while consuming just 3-4 kW/hr. That would deliver an energy saving of up to 11
kWh per reefer.
COST OF ADAPTATION
The Flexibility Audit should form part of an ongoing process. It is common for the process to identify
opportunities for flexibility that would require considerable investment in retrofitting. The best time to
maximize process flexibility at least cost is often at the process design stage.
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REVENUE-GENERATING OPPORTUNITIES
Flexible industrial processes may enable on-site wind generation with self-consumption; alternatively it could
be used to provide balancing services to the local Transmission System Operator. The potential to deliver three
types of balancing service were investigated during the e-harbours project:
Frequency Containment Reserve (FCR) which requires automatic and very fast response (reaction
time <30 seconds), in return for an availability fee;
Automatic Frequency Restoration Reserve (aFRR) which requires a fast response time (30 seconds –
15 minutes), in return for a service fee;
Manual Frequency Restoration Reserves (mFRR) and Replacement Reserves (RR) which include slower
reserve products with varying reaction times and generally longer activation times, in return for an
availability fee, a fee for balancing provision, plus compensation for use of the reserve.
It is important to remark that today, not all those three markets are open to consumers in all EU countries. In
most EU countries – though not in all – electricity consumers can participate in the mFRR market. The aFRR
and FCR markets have more stringent requirements and in some EU countries, participation by consumers is
not permitted (e.g. Spain). Market design reforms should systematically open up the aFRR and even FCR
markets to the participation of consumers. [
2
On analysis, the provision of aFRR capacity offered greatest value to the companies. This could be an
alternative use of flexible industrial processes if the circumstances for on-site wind generation are not
favorable.
THE VALUE OF PROCESS FLEXIBILITY
Previous applications of the Flexibility Audit estimated that they could extract approximately 80% of the
theoretical value from flexibility initiatives with relative ease. Extracting the final 20% could be complex,
difficult, and at times expensive. For example, identifying the theoretical value that could be extracted based
on given past weather conditions has proven to be relatively easy. However, extracting the maximum value
through the accurate prediction of future wind conditions and market prices, is far more difficult.
The more complex the industrial operation, the more difficult the researchers have found it to estimate and
extract full theoretical value of the process flexibility. But even when extracting full value proved to be too
difficult, extracting only a part of it was often still worth doing, leading to a considerable revenue.
FLEXIBILITY IN BUSINESS CLUSTERS
Could a number of businesses combine their energy management in order to maximize their flexibility and the
consumption of local wind power, while minimizing their need for external power?
During the e-harbours project, an attempt was made to model a “Virtual Power Plant” joining the flexibility of
various industrial sites together.
The idea proved extremely complex to implement. It required the close collaboration of a cluster of companies
with transmission and distribution system operators. The companies in the cluster varied greatly in size and in
their patterns of activity. Three of the companies were connected to the distribution grid; a fourth –
consuming power on a much larger scale – was connected to the transmission grid. The regulatory and
contractual systems needed to support the idea were not in place. There was insufficient information available
for organizations to generate and test business cases for the provision of energy balancing services.
In short, the complications and information gaps made the concept of combined energy demand management
impractical – a step too far for the moment.
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Figure 2 – Possible outcomes from an Energy Flexibility Audit of port businesses.
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CONCLUSION
The flexibility of industrial electricity consumption is rarely measured as part of standard energy audits and its
potential value is often overlooked, even though it can be substantial. Researchers on the e-harbours project
found solid business cases for investment in wind-integrated industrial processes at sites where wind
conditions are suitable. Self-consumption of on-site wind power offers the prospect of energy at a competitive
price and with high cost certainty.
From a management and technological point of view, software tools that allow companies to respond flexibly
to weather signals are tested and proven. They were initially developed to allow companies to react to price
signals as part of smart grid and demand side management solutions. Whether companies react to weather
signals or market price signals, there is little difference. In theory, weather signals should be more predictable.
Weather is just one of many variables influencing market prices for energy on a grid where the penetration of
renewables is high.
Even small changes can significantly improve flexibility, but applying these changes can face practical barriers
such as split budgets between the team benefiting from on-site wind generation and the team carrying the
investment burden. The cost of retrofitting or re-organizing processes to maximize flexibility can also be a
disincentive. The most opportune moment to consider flexibility is – obviously – at the process design stage.
Other potential barriers include the need for construction permits, issues of accessibility to the grid, difficulty
creating commercial agreements with distribution or transmission system operators, and the cost of grid
connection.
Looking at the broader picture, the question is who will cope best with the variability of on-site wind
installations: the network or the self-consumer? With the relatively small share of renewables connected to
the network today, this variability does not yet pose a fundamental problem for system operators – the EU
network is very robust – while self-consumption deprives them of a part of their revenues. As a result, there
are only limited incentives or price signals for renewable self-consumption, and reluctance among industrial
companies to exploit flexibility opportunities for fear that they would interfere with their core business
prevails. This situation could change with the increasing penetration of intermittent renewable energy systems
on the grid, which could result in incentives for dynamic load management. When that moment comes, micro-
networks and, by extension, on-site wind will constitute attractive options for those industrial facilities with
scope for flexible electricity consumption.
That said, the e-harbours project demonstrates that on-site wind power with maximized self-consumption can
already be a profitable solution today. For companies already able to skew their demand in response to
market price signals, it can be a natural next step requiring no fundamental rethinking of the production
process.
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REFERENCES
[1] De Keulenaer, H. (ECI), Nuño, F. (ECI), Käufler, J. (Synlift Systems), Pohl, R. (Synlift Systems), & Deiringer, S.
(Synlift Systems), Flexible Industrial Processes: a valuable tool to accommodate big scale variable renewables,
Assessment of additional wind power integration by industrial demand side management, 2014.
[2] Leonardo Energy Application Note, Load Management of Industrial Systems, December 2016.
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