WP-Flex: Analysis of the grid effects of increased flexibility of heat pumps through higher output and heat storage capacity

The transformation of the energy supply system is taking place at a decentralized level in particular and requires a major expansion of the electricity distribution grids. However, obstacles such as acceptance, a shortage of skilled workers and long planning processes are leading to delays in grid expansion. This jeopardizes the energy transition. This could be counteracted: Flexibility options could be used to better integrate renewable energy plants and electricity consumers into the electricity grid. This project looks at the grid-friendly flexibilization of heat pumps. The researchers investigate whether and to what extent greater flexibility can reduce the need for grid expansion and compensate for the delay in grid expansion.

Increasing heat pump flexibility for grid-friendly use

A larger dimensioning of heat pumps and heat storage systems can be used to provide flexibility for the grid over a longer time horizon. Particularly in cold weather periods, the simultaneity of the electricity demand of heat pumps operated at the same time can be reduced. The aim of the study is to determine the resulting reduction in grid expansion requirements.

Analysis of the effects on the grid

The studies are based on optimal power flow calculations. These optimize the grid-friendly use of flexibility with the aim of minimizing grid loads. An automated grid expansion methodology is used to determine the grid expansion requirements. Both methods are implemented in the open source tool eDisGo and have already been tested as part of the eGo^n project.

Project duration: September 2023 – December 2023

• Carrying out optimal power flow calculations to determine the grid-friendly use of heat pump flexibility
• Identification of grid expansion requirements for grid-types and the whole of Germany for different degrees of heat pump flexibility
• Preparation of a short study with information on data, methodology and results

Kurzstudie: Analyse der Netzauswirkungen erhöhter Flexibilität von Wärmepumpen durch höhere Leistung und Wärmespeicherkapazität (Schachler 2023) (in German)