DISRUPTIVE POTENTIAL AND BUSINESS MODEL INNOVATION THROUGH ELASTIC MICROGRID-AS-A-SERVICE (MAAS) PLATFORMS

We identify an emerging category of microgrids, called dynamic microgrids, which are a result of the combination of elastic platform technologies and flexible business models of microgrid-as-a-service providers. Such dynamic microgrids are already transforming parts of the distribution system by incorporating existing distributed generation with storage and controls, and matching generation with increasingly dynamic local or neighbouring loads. It is this new category where we see various forms elastic microgrid-as-a-service platforms and protocols already being applied. We detail important characteristics of such elastic, i.e., scalable, fault-tolerant, platforms and conclude with a discussion of possible business model innovation by new players and positioning of incumbents.