Journal and Conference Papers

JOURNAL PAPERS

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Colak, I; Bayindir, R.; Fulli, G.; Tekin, I; Demirtas, K; Covrig, C.F.; Smart grid opportunities and applications in Turkey, 2014, Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews NEW

Abstract

A smart grid is a system that uses information and communication technologies to integrate, in an intelligent way, all users connected to the electrical power system considering their behaviour and actions. For this purpose, information about the electrical network, such as the current, the voltage or the power, is gathered together over time so that the behaviour of suppliers and consumers can be observed and automatically coordinated. Smart grids are becoming a significant part in the configuration of future electrical power systems. A lot of research has been done on using smart grids to achieve highly efficient and user-friendly electrical power systems. Many new methods have been introduced to solve the difficulties energy providers face when transforming conventional electrical networks into smart grids. These difficulties include the integration of renewable energy and different grid systems at national and international levels due to changes in frequency, voltage and in the synchronisation mechanism. This paper provides an outline of the European smart grid projects and gives an overview of the current infrastructure and smart grid applications of the Turkish Electricity Production System Operator (EUAS), Turkish Electricity Transmission System Operator (TEIAS), and Turkish Electricity Distribution System Operator (TEDAS). In this paper the feasibility of the further steps required is described and some assessments are made and suggestions given on smart grid developments in general.

Han, B.; Bompard, E.; Huang, T.; Profumo, F.; Xia, Q.; Paths toward Smart Energy: A Framework for Comparison of the EU and China energy policy, 2014, IEEE Transactions on Sustainable Energy NEW

Abstract

National decisions and behaviors are strictly interdependent and each of them may affect the whole planet; hence, the harmonization and coordination of the policy are key issues. Particularly in the energy sector, where scarce resources, presently unevenly shared by the various nations with possible arising of conflicts, need to be allocated to keep the pace with economic growth and in a manner compatible with the preservation of the environment. In this paper we use the concept of “Smart Energy”as a way to embrace the target to meet commitments to the worlds sustainability, and a comparison of the energy policies of two key-world players the EU and China is undertaken in this context. A framework for quantitatively assessing effectiveness of various specific policy tools is proposed. The policies are defined and analyzed with reference to the general goals, the tools to pursue those goals and their outcomes, possibly in a quantitative manner resorting to a set of meaningful metrics.

Bompard, E.; Huang, T.; Wu, Y.; Cremenescu, M.; Classification and trend analysis of threats origins to the security of power systems, 2013, International Journal of Electrical Power and Energy Systems

Abstract

This paper presents a framework to classify threats to power system secure operation. Threats have long been recognized; however, there lacks a categorical classification of them due to various individual perspectives from different organizations. The power system is evolving to a smart, super, and clean grid, accompanied by interior diversified and emerging threats. Furthermore, threats from exterior factors, intentional and non-intentional, conventional and new-born, to power systems have become more severe than ever before. Therefore, a distinct catalogue, description, and possible impact of these threats are proposed to meet the need of preventing power system from dangers. Using the proposed classification, a quantitative trend analysis of more than a hundred representative historic blackouts is performed to figure out the principal threats and the changing trend of threats over time.

Gracceva, F.; Fulli, G.; Ardelean, M.; Masera, M.; Energy Security – European Perspective and Policy Challenges, 2013, The European Journal of Critical Services and Infrastructure Protection

Abstract

Given the challenges to European energy security, a comprehensive and coherent approach to energy policy is essential. A major task, both for policymakers and policy oriented research, is to select economically rational strategies for energy security and to assess the interactions of different energy strategies. This will require adopting a rigorous, robust and transparent approach to assess the future energy security challenges, not only to verify that the implementation of EU policies is not self-defeating, but also to identify new opportunities for synergy between policy domains.

Bompard, E.; Masera, M.; Nuttal, W.J.; Technology: New electricity grids must develop in sync, 2013, Nature, correspondence

Abstract

Future US and European electricity systems will depend on the harmonious evolution of low- and medium-voltage 'smart' grids with high-voltage 'super' grids. Without care, these two developments could undermine, rather than reinforce, one another.

Bompard, E.; Han, B.; Market-Based Control in Emerging Distribution System Operation, 2013, IEEE Transactions on Power Delivery

Abstract

In emerging electrical distribution systems, a multitude of self-interested individual decision makers interacts among themselves and with the power grid. The optimal operation of the grid, according to a set of predefined technical and economic targets, can be achieved by influencing the behaviors of the decision makers with appropriate market signals. The technical feasibility and performance of the system, for example, in terms of line flow limits, network losses, and appropriate voltage profile, can thus be controlled to a certain extent, by market signals. In this paper, we present a conceptual framework for “Market-based Control” for the operation of emerging distribution systems. Characterized by distributed and adaptive control signals over prosumers, market based control needs to make prosumer benefits aligned with regulator/DSOs concerns, thus satisfying the requirements from both sides. By applying market-based control in network charging, both network and market performances can be improved. The complexity in the environment and in the interactions among players prompt techniques to be derived from complex systems theory. A multiagent model was built up for testing the market control strategies strategy. The concept and applications are illustrated with reference to a standard CIGRE medium-voltage distribution network.

Verzijlbergh, R.A.; Brancucci Martínez-Anido, C.; Lukszo, Z.; de Vries, L.J.; Does controlled electric vehicle charging substitute cross-border transmission capacity?, 2013, Applied Energy

Abstract

Objective: The objective of this paper is to analyse the extent to which electric vehicle (EV) charging control substitutes the needs for cross-border electricity transmission investment. Method: EUPowerDispatch, a minimum-cost unit commitment dispatch model, is used to compare the impacts of controlled EV charging and cross-border transmission for different levels of variable renewable energy sources penetration in two case studies: a conceptual two-node system and the European power system. Results: Results show how both controlled EV charging and cross-border transmission capacity reduce electricity dispatch costs, curtailment of variable renewable energy sources (RES), storing energy by utilising pumped hydro, and unserved load. The paper shows that when the demand for arbitrage is low, controlled EV charging can substitute for a certain volume of cross-border transmission capacity. When demand for arbitrage becomes higher due to higher volumes of RES, the two increasingly complement one another with respect to reducing dispatch costs. The main reason for this is that cross-border transmission capacity is needed to transport power to where electric vehicles can absorb it. Conclusion: Demand response, in this case EV charging control, is not only a competitor of cross-border electricity transmission. In the presence of a high volume of RES, they can complement one another. Practical implications: The study presented in this paper provides insights about potential investment decisions that Europe will have to face in order to meet the decarbonisation goals set by the European Commission by 2050. Transmission planners should take into consideration that while demand response and cross-border transmission capacity may substitute each other at a limited share of intermittent renewable energy, at a higher share their interactions become more complex as their beneﬁts become dependent on each other.

Brancucci Martinez-Anido, C.; Vandenbergh, M., de Vries, L.; Alecu, C.; Purvins, A.; Fulli, G.; Huld, T.; Medium-Term Demand for European Cross-Border Electricity Transmission Capacity, 2013, Energy Policy

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to analyse the need for investment in electricity interconnectors in Europe between 2010 and 2025. We evaluate the impact of cross-border transmission capacity on curtailment needs for renewable energy sources (RES), on hydro storage utilisation and on security of supply (in terms of energy not served). The analysis is performed with EUPowerDispatch, a minimum cost dispatch model of the European electricity transmission network. For the evolution of the electricity generation portfolio and electricity consumption we use the Scenario Outlook and Adequacy Forecast of the European Network of Transmission System Operators for Electricity (ENTSO-E). The model results show that, between 2010 and 2025, cross-border transmission capacity will not be a significant cause for curtailing variable RES. CO₂ emissions from electricity generation will decrease by only 0.6 % because demand growth offsets the reduction in carbon intensity. The planned expansion in cross-border transmission capacity will be needed to maintain the current level of security of supply. More RES and lower growth in electricity demand will be needed to meet EU climate policy goals. In addition, our study shows how hydro pumping and storage and electricity transmission are at least partly complementary technologies.

Lopes Ferreira, H.; Garde, R.; Fulli, G.; Kling, W.; Pecas Lopes, J.; Characterisation of electrical energy storage technologies, 2013, Energy

Abstract

In the current situation with the unprecedented deployment of clean technologies for electricity generation, it is natural to expect that storage will play an important role in electricity networks. This paper provides a qualitative methodology to select the appropriate technology or mix of technologies for different applications. The multiple comparisons according to different characteristics distinguish this paper from others about energy storage systems. Firstly, the different technologies available for energy storage, as discussed in the literature, are described and compared. The characteristics of the technologies are explained, including their current availability. In order to gain a better perspective, availability is cross-compared with maturity level. Moreover, information such as ratings, energy density, durability and costs is provided in table and graphic format for a straightforward comparison. Additionally, the different electric grid applications of energy storage technologies are described and categorised. For each of the categories, we describe the available technologies, both mature and potential. Finally, methods for connecting storage technologies are discussed.

Gangale, F.; Mengolini, A.; Onyeji, I.; Consumer engagement: an insight from smart grid projects in Europe, 2013, Energy Policy

Abstract

This paper provides an insight into consumer engagement in smart grid projects in Europe. Projects analysed are those included in the catalogue annexed in the JRC Report “Smart Grid projects in Europe: lessons learned and current developments”. The analysis suggests an increase in the interest in consumer engagement projects at European level and a strong focus on the residential sector, and emphasises the key importance of public funding to support these projects. The study also reveals that projects involving consumers are characterised by the pursuit of two main objectives: gaining deeper knowledge of consumer behaviour (observing and understanding the consumer) and motivating and empowering consumers to become active energy customers (engaging the consumer). The paper reviews the main activities undertaken to obtain these objectives and highlights trends and developments in the field. Finally, the paper discusses obstacles to consumer engagement and the strategies adopted by the projects surveyed to tackle them, highlighting the need to build consumer trust and to design targeted campaigns taking into consideration different consumer segments. The conclusions are in line with findings and analyses presented in the literature and underscore the need for further research and action at European level.

Brancucci Martínez-Anido, C.; L’Abbate, A.; Migliavacca, G.; Calisti, R.; Soranno, M.; Fulli, G.; Alecu, C.; de Vries, L.J.; Effects of North-African electricity import on the European and the Italian power systems: a techno-economic analysis, 2013, Electric Power Systems Research

Abstract

Several European initiatives consider the electrical integration of the Euro-Mediterranean region a key priority for meeting future European Union (EU) energy policy goals. Ambitious plans include the development of Renewable Energy Sources (RES) in the region as well as transmission interconnectors between the two shores of the Mediterranean Sea. The success of such initiatives, in addition to several technoeconomic, political, environmental, regulatory and financial obstacles, depends on the ability of the European electricity network to suitably accommodate large electricity imports from North Africa. In order to address the issue, this paper, based on the combination of two methodologies, presents a first techno-economic analysis of the effects of electricity imports from North Africa on the European and the Italian power systems in 2030. Within a common framework, the adopted approach has proved its feasibility with coherent results showing a decrease in electricity prices in Europe. The European study shows how net electricity exchanges tend to follow the direction from South to North. The impact of North-African electricity on the Italian system is relevant. Also, Italy’s potential of becoming a Mediterranean electricity hub is emphasised. National internal grid congestion results to be a crucial issue for the Euro-Mediterranean electrical integration.

Purvins, A.; Papaioannou, I.; Debarberis, L.; Application of battery-based storage systems in household-demand smoothening in electricity-distribution grids, 2013, Energy Conversion and Management

Abstract

This article analyses in technical terms the application of battery-based storage systems for household-demand smoothening in electricity-distribution grids. The analysis includes case studies of Denmark, Portugal, Greece, France and Italy. A high penetration of photovoltaic systems in distribution grids is considered as an additional scenario. A sensitivity analysis is performed in order to examine the smoothening effect of daily demand profiles for different configurations of the battery system. In general, battery-storage systems with low rated power and low battery capacity can smooth the demand sufficiently with the aid of a simple management process. For example, with 1 kW of peak demand, a 30–45% decrease in the variability of the daily demand profile can be achieved with a battery system of 0.1 kW rated power and up to 0.6 kW h battery capacity. However, further smoothening requires higher battery-system capacity and power. In this case, more elaborate management is also needed to use the battery system efficiently.

Carbone, A.; Ajmone-Marsan, M.; Axhausen, K.; Batty, M.; Masera, M.; Rome, E.; Complexity aided design. The FuturICT technological innovation paradigm, 2012, Eur. Phys. J. Special Topics 214

Abstract

In the next century, planet earth will don an electronic skin. It will use the Internet as a scaffold to support and transmit its sensations. This skin is already being stitched together. It consists of millions of embedded electronic measuring devices: thermostats, pressure gauges, pollution detectors, cameras, microphones, glucose sensors, EKGs, electroencephalographs. These will probe and monitor cities and endangered species, the atmosphere, our ships, highways and fleets of trucks, our conversations, our bodies–even our dreams ....What will the earth’s new skin permit us to feel? How will we use its surges of sensation? For several years–maybe for a decade–there will be no central nervous system to manage this vast signaling network. Certainly there will be no central intelligence...some qualities of self-awareness will emerge once the Net is sensually enhanced. Sensuality is only one force pushing the Net toward intelligence. These statements are quoted by an interview by Cherry Murray, Dean of the Harvard School of Engineering and Applied Sciences and Professor of Physics. It is interesting to outline the timeliness and highly predicting power of these statements. In particular, we would like to point to the relevance of the question “What will the earth’s new skin permit us to feel?” to the work we are going to discuss in this paper. There are many additional compelling questions, as for example: “How can the electronic earth’s skin be made more resilient?”; “How can the earth’s electronic skin be improved to better satisfy the need of our society?”;“What can the science of complex systems contribute to this endeavour?

Ajmone-Marsan, M.; Arrowsmith, D.; Breymann, W.; Fritz, O.; Masera, M.; Mengolini, A.; Carbone, A.; 2012, The emerging energy web, Eur. Phys. J. Special Topics 214

Abstract

There is a general need of elaborating energy-effective solutions for managing our increasingly dense interconnected world. The problem should be tackled in multiple dimensions -technology, society, economics, law, regulations, and politics- at different temporal and spatial scales. Holistic approaches will enable technological solutions to be supported by socio-economic motivations, adequate incentive regulation to foster investment in green infrastructures coherently integrated with adequate energy provisioning schemes. In this article, an attempt is made to describe such multidisciplinary challenges with a coherent set of solutions to be identified to significantly impact the way our interconnected energy world is designed and operated.

Carcano, A.; Coletta, A.; Guglielmi, M.; Masera, M.; Fovino, I.N.; Trombetta, A.; A Multidimensional Critical State Analysis for Detecting Intrusions in SCADA Systems, 2012, IEEE Transactions on Industrial Informatics

Abstract

A relatively new trend in Critical Infrastructures (e.g., power plants, nuclear plants, energy grids, etc.) is the massive migration from the classic model of isolated systems, to a system-of-systems model, where these infrastructures are intensifying their interconnections through Information and Communications Technology (ICT) means. The ICT core of these industrial installations is known as Supervisory Control And Data Acquisition Systems (SCADA). Traditional ICT security countermeasures (e.g., classic firewalls, anti-viruses and IDSs) fail in providing a complete protection to these systems since their needs are different from those of traditional ICT. This paper presents an innovative approach to Intrusion Detection in SCADA systems based on the concept of Critical State Analysis and State Proximity. The theoretical framework is supported by tests conducted with an Intrusion Detection System prototype implementing the proposed detection approach.

Brancucci Martinez-Anido, C.; Bolado Lavin, R.; de Vries, L.; Fulli, G.; Vandenbergh, M.; Masera, M.; European power grid reliability indicators, what do they really tell?, 2012, Electric Power Systems research

Abstract

The European Network of Transmission System Operators for Electricity has been publishing network reliability data for major fault events in the European electricity transmission network since 2002. The work presented focuses on three reliability indicators provided for each major fault event: energy not supplied, total loss of power and restoration time. The purpose of this paper is to assess the usefulness of these indicators and to gain a better understanding of the impact of network topology on transmission network reliability. The topology is assessed in terms of network interconnectivity. For each indicator, the sum of the observed values and the Empirical Cumulative Distribution Functions (ECDF) are used to compare networks with different topologies. More interconnected grids have experienced a larger number of fault events. However, their impacts in terms of reliability indicators are significantly lower. In spite of the observed differences between network groups, results show significant sensitivity to reliability indicators’ data sets. The usefulness and significance of transmission network reliability indicators are discussed.

Giordano, V.; Fulli, G.; A business case for smart grid technology: a systemic perspective, 2012, Energy Policy

Abstract

The digitalization of the electricity grid opens the way to bundle value added services to the electricity commodity, and possibly shift business value to electricity services in line with the notions of efficiency, conservation and sustainability. In this context, market forces should be mobilized within the boundaries of energy policy goals to contribute to the massive investments that are required to fulfill the Smart Grid vision. In this paper, we present a systemic perspective aimed at establishing technical and economic synergies that may improve the business cases of individual different Smart Grid technologies and contribute to reverse the consumption-driven paradigm of the electricity sector. Our analysis is supported by evidence from applications in the electric vehicle and smart meter ecosystems. Throughout the paper, an EU (European Union) perspective is primarily considered.

Gangale, F.; Mengolini, A; CDM contribution to RES penetration in the power generation sector of China and India, 2011, The International Journal of Sustainable Development and World Ecology

Abstract

The clean development mechanism (CDM) could play an important role in the power generation sector of developing countries and emerging economies by providing additional revenue to support the diffusion of renewable energy sources (RES). This paper investigates the contribution of the CDM to deployment of renewable electricity projects in China and India, and highlights the main potentialities and limitations of this mechanism for their support. The outcome of our analysis shows many differences and similarities in the way and scale of CDM projects for renewable electricity generation have been implemented in the two countries. In both cases, the CDM has made a contribution to greening investments in the power generation sector, which is still largely dominated by subcritical coal-fuelled power plants. Nonetheless, some major problems still remain and they are mainly related to the distribution of projects across different technologies and to the environmental integrity of the mechanism. In view of the likely revision of the CDM in the post-Kyoto period, we find that the differentiation of the credit generation rate of different project categories could bring some level of improvement without significantly altering the current system functionality.

Purvins, A.; Wilkening, H.; Fulli, G.; Tzimas, E.; Celli, G.; Mocci, S.; Pilo, F.; Tedde, S.; A European supergrid for renewable energy: local impacts and far-reaching challenges, 2011, Journal of Cleaner Production

Abstract

This article assesses the impact of extensive deployment of indigenous and external renewable energy sources on a local electricity system (Sardinia Island) and discusses the main challenges faced by the European power grids in integrating high shares of renewable-based generation technologies. It presents the 2030 scenarios for the Sardinian power system and the results of steady-state analyses in extreme (renewable) generation and consumption conditions. These results are eventually combined with the assessment of key technology development trends to explain how this can affect the development of a European supergrid. In general, the article stresses that rendering the bulk-power system capable of accommodating high renewable energy penetration not only requires reinforcing the electricity highways but also demands carefully planning the architecture of and the interface with regional power systems.

Lopes Ferreira, H.; Costescu, A.; L'Abbate, A.; Minnebo, P.; Fulli, G.; Distributed Generation and Distribution Market Diversity in Europe, 2011, Energy Policy

Abstract

The unbundling of the electricity power system will play a key role on the deployment of distributed generation (DG) in European distribution systems evolving towards Smart Grids. The present paper firstly reviews the relevant European Union (EU) regulatory framework: specific attention is paid to the concept of unbundling of power distribution sector in Europe. Afterwards, the focus is on the current state of penetration of DG technologies in the EU Member States and the corresponding interrelations with distribution features. A comparison between the unbundling of the distribution and supply markets using econometric indicators such as the Herfindahl–Hirschmann (IHH) and the Shannon–Wiener (ISW) indices is then presented. Finally, a comparative analysis between these indices and the current level of penetration of distributed generation in most EU is shown; policy recommendations conclude the paper.

L'Abbate, A.; Fulli, G.; Modeling and Application of VSC-HVDC in the European Transmission System, 2010, International Journal of Innovations in Energy Systems and Power

Abstract

The present paper focuses on the technical, environmental, and economic features of VSC-based HVDC technologies. The aim is to investigate the impact of VSC-HVDC on the European power system: specific attention is paid to the transmission capacity enhancement attainable in targeted applications. Towards this purpose, an original steady state model of the VSC-HVDC is presented and tested. Then, a techno-economic analysis of the impact of VSC-HVDC on liberalized power systems in Europe is undertaken so as to investigate the feasibility and the sustainability of such investment, also compared to building HVAC lines.

CONFERENCE PAPERS

Brancucci Martínez-Anido, C.; de Vries, L. J. ; Are cross-border electricity transmission and pumped hydro storage complementary technologies?; 10th International Conference on the European Energy Market, Stockholm, 28-30 May 2013

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to analyse the degree to which cross-border electricity transmission and pumped hydro storage substitute or complement each other. The impacts of these two technical assets on annual dispatch costs, curtailment of variable renewable energy sources (RES) and CO2 emissions, as well as their impacts on one another, are analysed in a power system with a high RES penetration. EUPowerDispatch, a minimum cost dispatch model of the European power system, is used to compare different scenarios with varying cross-border electricity transmission and hydro pumping capacities. The results show that increasing cross-border transmission capacity or hydro pumping capacity reduces annual dispatch costs, RES curtailment needs and CO2 emissions. The study concludes that cross-border transmission and hydro pumped storage substitute one another and that under certain conditions they can be considered as complementary technologies.

Brancucci Martínez-Anido, C.; de Vries, L. J.; Bolado, R.; Fulli, G.; Cross-Border Electricity Transmission Capacity for Network Reliability, 4th International Conference on Power Engineering, Energy and Electrical Drives, Istanbul, 13-17 May 2013

Abstract

This paper presents a study which investigates the impact of cross-border electricity transmission capacity, as well as of generation capacity, on network reliability. Monthly empirical data on network reliability and generation and cross-border transmission capacities from 18 different European countries for a time span of 10 years is used. Results show how a higher sum of remaining generation margin and import capacity corresponds with fewer fault events in the network.

Colak, I.; Fulli, G.; Vitiello, S.; Tekin, I.; Bayindir, R.; Demirtas, K.; Developments of Turkish Grid System Infrastructure for Integration With Europa; POWERENG 2013: 4th International Conference on Power Engineering, Energy and Electrical Drives, Istanbul (TK), 13-17 May 2013

Abstract

Voltages, frequencies, waveforms, outages, harmonics and flicker effects are the parameter of quality criteria in a grid system. Among them, the frequency is the most important parameter in production of high quality energy. Synchronization of Turkish grid system with Continental Europe grid systems was first started by signing an agreement between the Turkish Transmission System Operator and European Network of Transmission System Operators for Electricity (ENTSO-E), Transmission System Operators (TSOs), Hellenic Transmission System Operators (HTSO), Electricity System Operator (ESO-EAD), Amprion and Tennet GmbH (former Transpower) on 18 September 2010. The synchronization of Turkish grid system to Europe transmission system is being achieved via two different connection points, Bulgarian and Greek, over 400 kV power lines. This paper analyses the synchronization criteria of Turkey and neighboring countries as well as the criteria for energy quality.

Lazarou, S.; Musca, R.; Demirtas, M.; Fulli, G.; Colak, I.; Modeling of a Smart Grid System Using Real Time Data οn Neplan ;POWERENG 2013: 4th International Conference on Power Engineering, Energy and Electrical Drives, Istanbul (TK), 13-17 May 2013

Abstract

The simulation model of the Smart Grids Laboratory of the Institute of Energy and Transport is presented in this paper and a day of its operation is analyzed. The developed model simulates six different modules (a photovoltaic array, a Li-ion battery storage system, a small wind turbine, a diesel generator, a laboratory load and the connection point with the grid). The modules are connected radially at a common bus.

Colak, I.; Wilkening, H.; Fulli, G.; Vasiljevska, J.; Issi, F.; Kaplan, O.; Analysing the efficient use of energy in a small smart grid system ;International Conference on Renewable Energy Research and Applications (ICRERA’12), Nagasaki (JP), 11-14 Nov 2012

Lazarou, S.; Covrig, C.F.; Colak, I.; Minnebo, P.; Wilkening, H.; Fulli, G.; Behaviour of multi-terminal grid topologies in renewable energy systems under multiple loads, International Conference on Renewable Energy Research and Applications (ICRERA’12), Nagasaki (JP), 11-14 Nov 2012

Vasiljevska, J.; Mengolini, A.; Fulli, G.; Enabling consumer engagement in the future electricity networks, CIGRE 2013 Symposium "Smarts Grids: Next Generation Grids for New Energy Trends", Lisbon (PT), 22-24 May 2013

Abstract

Today's electricity system is facing the challenge to respond to growing environmental concerns while assuring sustainable, secure and cost-effective power system operation. Although large scale integration of generation close to load appears as a promising solution to cope with these challenges, much effort is still needed in engaging consumers to take a bigger role in managing their power consumption. In this context, consumer engagement may play a key role in sustaining policy developments that entails an increased share of renewable energy sources in the electricity use together with a more efficient use of electricity energy. Sustainable energy consumption will require a shift towards a two way communication and power flow between consumers and power suppliers in order to optimize the use of renewable energy resources and at the same time to minimize the use of less efficient power generation and network infrastructure investments. In this context, the aim of the present paper is to provide an insight on current trends and development on consumer engagement strategies in smart grid projects in Europe. The paper presents some first results of a periodic survey on European smart grid projects that the Joint Research Centre carries out. One of the aims of the survey is to collect information on ongoing activities at European level on consumer engagement strategies in European smart grids projects. The analysis shows an increase in the interest in consumer engagement in European projects in particular in the residential sector, with ongoing projects being mainly at R&D or demonstration level. Distribution System Operators (DSOs), challenged by the need to integrate increasing shares of renewable and distributed energy sources while ensuring security of system supply, are inherently interested in enhancing flexibility through energy efficiency and dynamic pricing so as to enable consumers responsiveness. Indeed, the survey shows that DSOs have started developing projects aimed at getting to know the consumers' preferences and behaviour and the impact of their choices on system's operators. DSOs, the results show, are acting as one of the key enablers for consumer's integration in the distribution network operation and planning. The paper also presents some results on the main motivational factors behind consumer engagement in smart grids project and finally discusses challenges and strategies in consumer engagement. One concrete example of a successful smart grids deployment program is presented and possibilities of projects scalability are discussed.

Lazarou, S.; Wiggelinkhuizen, E.; Teixeira Pinto, R.; Minnebo, P.; Wilkening, H.; Pierik, J.; Fulli, G.; A Smart Grid Simulation Centre at the Institute for Energy and Transport - Integration of large amounts of offshore wind energy, Panel Session: "RT and HIL Simulation Applications for Approaching Complexity in Future Power & Energy Systems", 2012 IEEE Workshop on Complexity in Engineering, Aachen (DE), 11-13 Jun 2012

L'Abbate, A.; Migliavacca, G.; Fulli, G.; Vergine, C.; Sallati, A.; The European research project REALISEGRID: transmission planning issues and methodological approach towards the optimal development of the pan-European system, 2012, IEEE PES General Meeting 2012, San Diego (US), 22-26 Jul 2012

Brancucci Martínez-Anido, C.; de Vries, L.; Fulli, G.; Impact of Variable Renewable Energy on European Cross-Border Electricity Transmission, CESUN 2012 International Engineering Systems Symposium, Delft (NL), 18-20 Jun 2012

Migliavacca, G.; L'Abbate, A.; Calisti R.; Soranno, M.; Brancucci, C.; Alecu C.; Vandenbergh, M.; Fulli, G.; Solar import from Africa: the Italian and the European perspective, 13th Mediterranean Research Meeting, Montecatini (IT), 21-24 Mar 2012

Masera, M.; Debarberis, L.; Fulli, G.; Wilkening, H.; Vandenbergh, P.; Minnebo, P.; Alecu, C.; Brancucci, C.; Smart Grid Simulation Centre at the Institute for Energy of the Joint Research Centre, 2011, Cigre International Symposium, Bologna (IT), 13-15 Sep 2011

Fulli, G.; Purvins, A.; L'Abbate, A.; Ruberg, S.; Migliavacca, G.; Evolutions and challenges towards a potential Pan-European HVAC/HVDC SuperGrid, 2011, Cigre International Symposium, Bologna (IT), 13-15 Sep 2011

Celli, G.; Mocci, S.; Pilo, F.; Tedde, S.; Fulli, G.; Purvins, A.; Tzimas, E.; The impact of large renewable deployment on electricity high voltage systems, Cigre International Symposium, Bologna (IT), 13-15 Sep 2011

Brancucci Martinez-Anido, C.; Fulli, G.; Vandenbergh, M.; Bolado, R.; Masera, M.; Assessing the reliability of the European power grid using load curve indicators and topological characteristics, 2011, Complexity in Energy Infrastructures: Models, Metrics and Metaphors, ECCS satellite meeting, Vienna (AT), 13 Sep 2011

L'Abbate, A.; Fulli, G.; Migliavacca, G.; Purvins, A.; Application of innovative transmission technologies for the development of the future European power system, 2011, Power Systems Computation Conference, Stockholm (SE), 22-26 Aug 2011

Lopes Ferreira, H.; Fulli, G.; L'Abbate, A.; Vandenbergh, M.; Gabrieli Francescato, M.; Dicuonzo E.; Carlini, E.; Vergine, C.; The impact of Distributed Generation on the European Power System: the Italian experience, Recife (BR), 2011 Cigre Symposium, 3-6 Apr 2011

L'Abbate, A.; Migliavacca, G.; Häger U.: Rehtanz, C.; Rüberg, S.; Ferreira, H.; Fulli, G.; Purvins, A.; The role of FACTS and HVDC in the future pan-European transmission system development, 2010, London (UK), ACDDC Conference , 19-22 Oct 2010

Lopes Ferreira, H.M.; Faas, H.; Fulli, G.; Kling, W.; Pecas Lopes, J.; Reliability Analyses on Distribution Networks with Dispersed Generation - a Review of the State of the Art, 2010 Powergrid, Amsterdam (NL), 8-10 Jun 2010

Ferreira, H.; Fulli, G.; Kling, W.; L'Abbate, A.; Faas, H.; Pecas Lopes, J.; Distributed Generation in Europe: the European Regulatory Framework and the Evolution of the Distribution Grids towards Smart Grids, Fifth IEEE Young Researchers Symposium in Electrical Power Engineering, Leuven (BE), 29-30 Mar 2010

L'Abbate, A.; Migliavacca, G.; Fulli G.; Gibescu M.; Ciupuliga A.; Transmission Planning in Europe - from Current Methodologies to a New Systemic Approach, 10th IAEE European Conference, Energy, Policies and Technologies for Sustainable Economies, Vienna (AT), 7-10 Sep 2009

Abstract

This work focuses on transmission planning, which will have to change and adapt to new situations and uncertainties mostly represented by market opening from one side and renewable integration on the other side. After a review of transmission planning practices carried out by the TSOs, transmission planning criteria should be expanded to consider probabilistic approaches in order to deal with above uncertainties. Moreover, a crucial stage of the transmission planning process, the cost-benefit analysis, needs to systematically and quantitatively assess the several advantages provided by transmission expansion in a liberalised context. In this view, the present work develops and describes a new systemic approach to transmission planning, aiming to evaluate the different benefits not only from a single perspective but from the society point of view. For the application of this analysis a suitable power system tool has been then developed and tested.

Vafeas, A.; Galant, S.; Pagano, T.; L'Abbate, A.; Haeger, U.; Fulli, G.; A Technology Ranking Methodology for the Cost-Benefit Analysis of Transmission Investments in Europe, 10th IAEE European Conference, Energy, Policies and Technologies for Sustainable Economies, Vienna (AT), 7-10 Sep 2009

Abstract

• developing a 2020 and 2030 roadmap for the integration of innovative transmission technologies • filtering out the set of key technologies that will have to be further analysed • performing a cost-benefit analysis, key stage of the transmission planning process, which takes also account of the candidate technologies.

L'Abbate, A.; Fulli, G.; Sustainability Analysis of VSC-HVDC in the Liberalised European Power System - a Practical Case, PowerTech, IEEE PowerTech, Bucharest (RO), 28 Jun - 2 Jul 2009

Abstract

The present paper aims at investigating the impact of the emerging voltage source converter-based high voltage direct current (VSC-HVDC) technology on the liberalised power system in Europe. In particular, focus is on key technical, economic, and environmental features of VSC-HVDC. A techno-economic analysis on a European priority interconnection project (i.e. the planned tie line Poland-Lithuania) is undertaken, so as to compare the economic and environmental sustainability of an investment in VSC-HVDC with other options.