The European Union faces a significant challenge: energy use and production are responsible for over 75% of greenhouse gas emissions. To achieve carbon neutrality by 2050, there is a need for a shift towards decarbonising the energy grid, including innovative solutions. This research project focuses on the business park Uitgeest-Noord, located in the Netherlands. Uitgeest-Noord serves as a testing ground for a decentralised energy system that optimises energy components (solar and storage) to mitigate local-scale grid congestion. Therefore, the main research question is: Can the ideal configuration of a decentralised energy system (DES) be effectively designed to avoid local grid congestion and support capacity planning during the electrification of the Business Park Uitgeest-Noord?
To address the main research question, the thesis employs a structured methodology that includes four steps: I) theoretical context analysis, II) data collection, III) linear programming optimisation modelling, and IV) result analysis. The third step includes building a linear programming optimisation modelling setup specific to Uitgeest-Noord, with a primary objective to optimise for monetary and emissions cost classes. By running different scenarios to assess potential configurations, and analysing the results using a cview dashboard.
Key findings indicate, among other things, that integrating PV panels, EV charging infrastructure, and heat pumps without a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) leads to significant PV curtailment and occasional grid congestion. In addition, adding BESS reduces PV curtailment and reliance on external grid supply, optimising renewable energy use. The ability to export stored electricity for revenue shows financial benefits but also highlights potential grid stress. Furthermore, battery size and PV capacity are closely linked, with cost constraints significantly impacting the system's configuration.
BESS plays a critical role in managing grid congestion and optimising renewable energy use. Flexible and scalable energy systems are essential for adapting to varying demand patterns and seasonal changes in energy generation. Therefore, accurate data collection and realistic assumptions are crucial for reliable modelling outcomes. The economic viability of different configurations is a key factor, with the model displaying that strategic use of storage and dynamic pricing can optimise financial performance.
In conclusion, this thesis project has effectively designed the ideal DES configuration for Uitgeest- Noord via a linear programming optimisation model, contributing to preventing grid congestion and supporting capacity planning. This thesis provides valuable insights into the benefits of DES and the importance of storage solutions, flexible system design, accurate data, and economic and emissions considerations. The academic value of this thesis lies in its energy modelling setup, which enables different modelling scenarios and improves performance through iterative analysis, all in a simulated environment. The reproducibility of this modelling approach makes it applicable to other case studies, advancing the understanding and practical implementation of DES in various contexts.