Navigating the energy transition with DERMS: A key solution for a sustainable future

Sally Jacquemin

VP & GM, Power and Utilities, AspenTech

The year 2024 marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing saga of climate change and energy transition. As Europe reels from the devastating impacts of severe drought, floods, forest fires and heat waves, the need for innovative solutions in energy management has never been more urgent.

Scientists around the globe are united in their call for action, stating that achieving net zero by 2050 is no longer sufficient. Instead, we must pivot towards net negative strategies to safeguard our future.

In this critical scenario, Distributed Energy Resource Management Systems (DERMS) emerge as a beacon of hope for electric utilities to dynamically manage their grid.

AspenTech is at the forefront of this technological revolution and here, we delve into the top four ways our DERMS software solution can accelerate the energy transition journey in 2024 and beyond.?

1. Planning for Europe’s Energy Security

The energy crisis in Europe, exacerbated by the Russia war, low hydropower output in southern Europe and French nuclear shutdowns, highlighted the fragile state of our energy security. The European Union's response, which included reducing gas consumption by 15% between August 1st, 2022 and March 31st, 2023 and implementing demand control measures, was a temporary patchwork solution further underscored by the unpredictably warm autumn of 2022.

DERMS offers a more sustainable approach by enabling small-scale power generation and storage with dynamic load management through Distributed Energy Resources (DERs), such as rooftop solar, photovoltaic (PV) technologies, batteries, electric vehicles, smart thermostats and ?other smart home devices. These resources, when managed effectively, can alleviate pressure on national supplies, defer the need for additional generation plants or substation expansion and offer reliability, especially in remote or disaster-prone areas. By localizing power and optimally using these grid assets and load resources to balance the grid, DERMS transforms energy security from a game of chance to a well-orchestrated plan.?

2. Fueling the EV Market Growth

The Electric Vehicle (EV) market is booming, with an expected annual growth rate of 11.99% and a projected market volume of $288.9bn by 2028. The growing demand for EVs necessitates a robust infrastructure to manage the influx. Here, DERMS plays a pivotal role by intelligently managing EV battery charging and ensuring optimal grid utilization, thus preventing grid stress due to load fluctuations.?

3. Legislative Support for DERMS

Recognizing the importance of DERMS in the decarbonization journey, European governments and regulatory bodies are now framing policies to encourage its adoption. These incentives are designed to motivate utilities and businesses to invest in DERMS solutions, catalyzing a shift towards more sustainable energy practices. For instance, Spain’s decarbonization strategy and passage of its first climate law includes a net-zero target by 2050. Iberdrola , a renewable energy leader in Spain and dozens of countries around the world, is leveraging AspenTech OSI DERMS system to accelerate Spain’s move to a 100% renewable electric system.?

4. Integrating Distributed Energy Resources and Renewables

As we transition to a diversified energy mix that includes renewable sources like wind and solar, the unpredictability of these resources poses a unique challenge for grid operators. DERMS effectively orchestrates the integration of small-scale renewables, batteries, consumer demand response programs and market participation for utilities across their enterprise. It ensures improved coordination and control, especially during peak demand periods, thus enhancing grid stability and reliability.

Moreover, DERMS is crucial in enabling the grid to adapt swiftly to supply and demand fluctuations, mitigating the impact of outages or disruptions. This capability is essential in maintaining a reliable grid amidst the ever-changing and unpredictable weather patterns.

Looking to the future

The journey ahead in energy transition is one of innovation and adaptation, guided by the transformative power of digital technologies. DERMS stands out as a key solution, promising enhanced productivity and sustainability in the face of growing global energy demands.

As we navigate through this era of digital revolution, AspenTech remains committed to driving operational excellence, environmental responsibility and strategic foresight in the power and utility sector. The future of energy is not just about conservation; it's about smart management and efficient use of resources, where DERMS plays a central role. Let's embrace this new digital dawn and pave the way for a more sustainable and secure energy future.

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