Innovative solutions to enable flexibility and retail markets in distribution grids: The Platone approach

The present study describes the characteristics of the European project Platone that proposes an innovative approach to joint data management for both higher levels of observability and exploitation of flexibility of the distribution grids. In the project, a layered platform will fulfil the needs of system operators, aggregators, and end users. A blockchain-based platform is the access layer to generators
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and customers
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flexibilities able to break traditional access barriers by providing certified measures to all the players. Certified data and signals will be used for an innovative distribution system operator (DSO) platform to locally maintain system integrity fostering confidence in flexibility operations. An upper layer will make data available to market platforms: also in this case it is envisioned the possibility of a blockchain approach to link the local system to the transmission system operator domains and enhance the overall system cost efficiency. Platone puts the grid users at the centre, investigates their needs and expectations and uses the underlying blockchain to unlock the potentials of higher dynamics of response. The platform will be tested in pilots hosted by three larger DSOs in Europe and analysed in cooperation with a large University in Canada.