Interfaces between End-Users and the Smart Energy Grid

The objective of this study was to assess the influence of user behaviour on the Smart Grid performance and to identify possible interfaces between end-users and the energy network. In order to get an image of the electricity customers attitude to Smart Grids and energy-efficiency, a questionnaire was conducted as a first step. Afterwards, a combination of thermal building simulations and the derivation of a load optimization algorithm on the building scale allowed to assess and quantify the impact of user behaviour. Subsequently, the findings were transferred to the integrated assessment of a fictive energy grid consisting of 100 residential buildings. Summarizing, the study has shown that domestic end-users indicate flexibility and willingness to adjust their energy consumption behaviour, although expressing some reservations. In general, the results of the simulations identified a noteworthy impact of user behaviour on the Smart Grid performance. Hence, especially an adjustment of the space conditioning systems set-points and the grade of the occupants’ time-of-use flexibility turned out to be influential parameters. All in all, this study implies that buildings occupants might play a significant role within a future smart energy network. Nonetheless, in order to achieve the aspired goals, an active user engagement is required to overcome present social barriers and enhance a further development and promotion of the Smart Grid idea. (Less)