GOFLEX: towards a new integrated solution for a cost-effective use of demand response in distribution grids

In the past decade, the planning of urban networks, in particular power grids, went through a paradigm shift. The increasing share of intermittent renewable energy generation and the required load capacity led to a major focus on demand-side management (DSM) to deal with the continual evolution of the energy market. Multiple research programs were established to study and quantify the benefits of large-scale implementation of DSM solutions. In this study, the authors investigate a new solution for demand response in the housing sector. This research is conducted within the framework of the GOFLEX project, whose main objective is to develop and demonstrate an integrated solution which will significantly contribute in the cost-effective use of demand response in distribution grids and increase the available flexibility of loads/generation included in demand response schemes. This study briefly introduces the GOFLEX integrated solution. The authors present the results of prosumers flexibility quantification over a period of 1 year. They also investigate the influence of outdoor temperature, consumption period (weekdays, weekends, holiday seasons) and consumption time during the day (morning and evening peaks). Finally, they explore control solutions to maximise flexibility use.