Preface

Abstract

The discrepancy between energy production and consumption poses a challenge in optimizing energy systems. This mismatch often results in imbalances, where energy surplus or deficit occurs at different times. The objective is therefore to find a solution to compensate for this time difference. To address this issue, the concept of pooling of energy balance through energy communities has emerged as a solution. By sharing energy demand and equipment within a district, energy communities enable the compensation between excess and deficit. One crucial aspect of pooling energy balance is the consideration of the stochastic effect. The consumption curve, affected by the variability in individual behaviors, can be smoothed through the mutualisation of buildings within an energy community. This smoothing effect reduces peak consumption and enhances the overall stability of the energy system. This article contributes to highlight the benefits of pooling energy demand and equipment sharing at the district level. By analyzing the benefits of energy communities and incorporating the stochastic effect, the article exposes the potential for optimising energy systems within districts. The findings contribute to a better understanding of how pooling of energy balance can lead to improved energy efficiency, resource management and sustainability within urban communities.

Keywords : Urban Systems; Energy Community; Storage technologies; Mutualisation; Pooling of energy balance;

© EPFL-IPESE 2023