evolvDSO: Assessment of the future roles of the DSOs, future market architectures and regulatory frameworks for network integration of DRES

The implementation of an Active Distribution System Management approach will be of key importance to facilitate and support energy markets. DSOs can empower consumers to support the system. Consumers/prosumers could bring flexibility, originating from DG units and/or flexible loads, to the system through competitive and transparent mechanisms. This flexibility can help to integrate generation based on intermittent renewable sources. This paper illustrates, by means of the role model, the potential (evolving and new) future roles envisioned at distribution system level which paves the way for the implementation of such approach. These roles will provide a level playing field by handling the increasing management complexity of the distribution system, so that an optimal use of flexibilities connected at distribution system level could lead to the provision of services the system requires. By adopting these roles the DSO will facilitate and support current and potential new energy markets in the smart grid environment, thus bringing value for all the stakeholders. The research leading to these results has received funding from the European Community’s Seventh Framework Programme (FP7/2007-2013) under Grant Agreement n.608732.