The research area Integrated Energy Systems at the Center for Energy deals with issues related to the generation and integration of renewable energy sources into the existing power system, as well as district heating and low temperature networks. The transformation and digitalization of the energy system requires not only technological solutions, but above all the interaction of technical possibilities with energy management aspects. This also includes the introduction of new regulatory frameworks to ensure the economically successful operation of a sustainable energy system.
Energy markets - flexibility for markets and networks
The main research topics of the Integrated Energy Systems include techno-economic analyses, the use of flexibility in the electricity system and the evaluation of energy system and market models and their effects on energy markets. The introduction of energy communities as new electricity players of the future and aggregation for load balancing and optimized energy use are essential for the success of decarbonization of the energy supply.
Hybrid energy systems and sector coupling
Another focus is on optimization concepts and new business models for effective sector coupling. Coupling the district cooling and district heating networks (DHC networks) with gas and electricity networks allows for greater flexibility and leads to higher reliability, security of supply and efficiency of the energy system. A holistic approach to the assessment, planning and operation of these networks allows both technical aspects such as system configuration and operational strategy considerations to be taken into account. In this area, the experts develop methods for controlling hybrid networks and for portfolio optimization against the background of the energy markets and in compliance with the regulatory framework.
Geothermal energy, local heating and low temperature networks
The focus here is on the planning and design of holistic concepts for the integration of district heating and cooling (DHC) on the basis of low temperature networks (so-called anergy networks). Detailed simulations and a precise investigation of the nature of the geological environment enable accurate long-term forecasts to be made with regard to supply, demand and storage.
