Smart Grid Goes Flexible: Methods for Cost Reduction by Efficient Resource Utilization of Operating Equipment*

Abstract

The growing dynamic in energy transition by grid integration of flexible power generations and loads as well as novel operating equipment, must be considered as new challenges in terms of power grid planning and operation. Therefore, system operators must develop new tools and concepts in order to use all available technologies consciously and efficiently. In particular, this challenge addresses power grid operators as well as other system operators who have to face these new requirements in the near future, e.g., driven by sector coupling. The main contribution of this paper is the basic research for a holistic model that integrates and exploits flexibilities for efficient planning and operating smart grids. In contrast to normally used flexibilities, a definition of grid flexibility is introduced and a motivating example for grid flexibilities based on real-world datasets to underline the corresponding benefits, requirements and constraints is given.