Background

We are in the middle of a crucial energy transition, from fossil to renewables. Three other large trends in this transition are decentralisation of energy supply, electrification of energy inputs (e.g. transportation) and digitisation, i.e. smart metering.

In addition, real-time energy flexibility optimisation is an essential part of our climate mitigation. Our CO₂ reduction targets depend on peak avoidance and optimal usage of renewable energy. While data is made available at high speed, the controllability of flexible devices is only now picking up.

Interest in optimisation services within the energy community is increasing constantly, as demonstrated by the EU pushing regulation for dynamic pricing, smart grids and energy communities. Also, interoperability standards are maturing. As these regulations and standards land, and more assets are connected and made controllable, profitability will shortly follow suit.

Meanwhile, non-Western parts of the world are not waiting for our results any more. Every continent is turning towards renewables, storage and digitisation, as purchasing costs plummet, whether they have strong grids, or favourable regulation, or none of the above.