The implications of unlocking decentralised flexibility

A comparative analysis of the intermediary aggregator vs. blockchain technology by considering a system integration perspective

Master thesis (2017)

Authors

T.B. de Vos Technology, Policy and Management

Contributors

D.J. Scholten (supervisor 1)
E.J.L. Chappin (supervisor 1)
R.W. Kunneke (supervisor 1)
Faculty
Technology, Policy and Management
Copyright: © 2017 Thijs de Vos
Blockchain System integration Aggregator Decentralised flexibility Comprehensive design framework
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Published Date

24-11-2017

Language

English

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Faculty

Technology, Policy and Management

Abstract

The Netherlands currently lacks a large scale aggregation system which can unlock decentralised flexibility to improve the reliability of the electricity grid in the presence of a significant amount of variable renewable energy sources. In this reserach, the aggregator blockchain technology is perceived as an enabler for a decentralised flexibility model. It is however uncertain how the implementation of both systems fit technically and institutionally in the environment of the Dutch electricity sector. This paper analyses implications of the aggregator and blockchain technology in unlocking decentralised flexibility by considering a system integration approach. Using the comprehensive design framework, a conceptualisation of system integration in energy infrastructures, many challenges regarding the aggregator and blockchain as flexibility model have been identified. Both systems have shown to have major implications that need to be overcome to ensure successful system integration.