Active distribution networks

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ADDRESS researches, develops and deploys technologies and processes to increase usage of distributed generation and renewable energy resources. In this way, the project promotes a new relationship between customers, generators and network operators. ADDRESS aims to develop new innovative architectures that are capable of balancing power supply and demand in real time for Active Distribution Networks (ADNs). This allows network operators, consumers, retailers and stakeholders to benefit from the increased flexibility of the entire system.

Innovative use of communications, automation and household technologies will be combined with new trading mechanisms and algorithms to develop low-cost, reliable ADN solutions. The solution with the greatest cost-benefit promise will be tested at three sites with different geographic, demographic and generation characteristics. The consortium is made up of well-respected large, medium and small enterprises with international experience. East and West European utilities, global power equipment and appliance manufacturers, universities, consultants, communications suppliers and R&D specialists have been selected for their specific knowledge and experience. The result is a team with a well-balanced mix of technology-oriented, innovation-oriented and market-oriented organizations.

However, to build the smart grids of the future, it will be necessary to consider more than the active demand. Secure and reliable distribution network performance depends on taking distributed generation, energy storage and large medium-voltage consumers into account as well.

Objectives
The main objectives of this project are to conceive, develop and validate solutions for active demand systems by studying system realization and operation. In this context, consideration will be given to both economic and societal/cultural matters.

Project coordinator
> ENEL Distribuzione, Italy

Project partners 
> About 24 partners from 12 countries, including DNV KEMA, are involved in this project.
Leading industrial partners are EdF, Iberdrola, ABB, Ericsson, Alcatel-Lucent, Vatenfall, ENEL, Electrolux, Landys+Gyr, and Philips

Project details
> Seventh Framework Program
> Duration: July 2008 – June 2012