Usage and Application of Energy Data

The combination of ICT methods and procedures leads to improved and innovative applications. The Fraunhofer Energy Alliance also deals with the effects of flexible, fluctuating tariffs on electricity suppliers and their energy procurement strategies. Experts at Fraunhofer develop solutions for a comprehensive energy data management. Demand-side management systems play an important role in this context, as the energy consumption in these systems is controlled intelligently. Demand-response systems, in the form of Smart Energy Gateways, which allow for a decentralized optimization of use via predictive methods are also of great importance.

With regard to the growing grid requirements within the deregulated energy market, experts at Fraunhofer offer market players TÜV-proven (German organization for technical safety and certification) and comprehensive IT solutions for power usage and accounting grid management. At grid level, the institutes realize field trials on real grids for their national and international partners, which can be complemented by simulations. Energy management systems use the collected data to control different generators, storages and loads within the grid.

Virtual power plants are used for an integrated operational management of decentralized energy sources. These power plants aggregate many decentralized generators, storages and loads to one flexible power plant which sells the generated energy at the best price. During these processes, we closely collaborate with energy suppliers who pursue innovative business models.

Due to the high level of complexity, the rapid and precise condition assessment of networked infrastructures is more important than ever and will gain further importance in the future. New methods, which are based on linear algorithms, ensure faster and more precise results than conventional algorithms for a minimum investment.

The Fraunhofer Energy Alliance also offers trainings on the topic “Digitization of the energy world”.