In the quest for a carbon-neutral future, the building sector is undergoing a significant transformation, with electrification emerging as a key strategy to curb greenhouse gas emissions. However, the path to net-zero emissions is fraught with challenges, particularly in optimizing energy consumption within buildings. This is where energy flexibility comes into play, and a recent study published in ‘Next Energy’ (Next Energy) sheds light on the software solutions that can harness this potential.
Led by Behnam Mohseni-Gharyehsafa from the Centre for Ocean Energy Research at Maynooth University, the study delves into the world of energy management software, evaluating 243 tools designed for buildings and districts. The findings are eye-opening: only 20% of commercial software supports robust energy flexibility, while a staggering 73% of free open-source tools do. This disparity highlights a significant gap in the market, one that could be pivotal for energy providers and building managers seeking to optimize their operations.
“Our analysis reveals a clear disparity between commercial and open-source software in terms of energy flexibility,” Mohseni-Gharyehsafa explains. “This is a critical area for development, as energy flexibility is key to integrating renewable energy sources and reducing carbon emissions.”
The study identifies several key areas where software development can be enhanced. Scalability, for instance, is crucial for deploying these tools in large-scale community buildings. Benchmarking metrics and key performance indicators (KPIs) can offer a Pareto front of optimal end-use solutions, while fault detection and diagnostic methods can improve reliability. The integration of cloud, fog, and edge computing services, along with greater flexibility in communication and interoperability, can further enhance the effectiveness of these tools.
The study also highlights the potential of Internet of Things (IoT) and blockchain technologies in energy management. These technologies can enable seamless data exchange and improve the overall operability of energy management systems. “By adopting these technologies, we can create more resilient and efficient energy management systems,” Mohseni-Gharyehsafa notes.
The implications of this research are far-reaching. For energy providers, the findings underscore the need for more robust software solutions that can effectively manage energy flexibility. For building managers, the study offers a roadmap for selecting and implementing energy management tools that can optimize energy consumption and reduce emissions. The study also provides valuable insights for software developers, highlighting the key areas where improvements can be made.
As the building sector continues to evolve, the role of energy management software will become increasingly important. The findings of this study could shape future developments in the field, driving innovation and helping to create a more sustainable future.
