City Science undertook a groundbreaking project in the realm of smart flexible heating. This initiative, part of the Smart Metering Implementation Programme (SMIP), aimed to revolutionise energy management and consumption in the UK.
Smart Flexible Heating: The Future of Energy Management
As we transition to a more sustainable future, smart flexible heating is becoming increasingly crucial. This innovative approach combines smart meters, Internet of Things (IoT) devices, and advanced algorithms to optimise heating in homes and businesses. The core concept is Demand Side Response (DSR), which allows energy-consuming devices to adjust their usage based on the overall demand on the electrical grid.
With the growing electrification of heat and transport, coupled with the increasing reliance on intermittent renewable energy sources, there’s a pressing need to balance supply and demand in our future energy system. Smart flexible heating offers a solution by enabling homeowners to participate in DSR programs, potentially earning revenues by allowing external control of their energy-consuming devices in response to grid signals.
Project Objectives
Our project centres on the development of a SmartHub solution, an IoT device designed to unlock the next era of smart infrastructure rollout for our energy system. The primary objectives of the feasibility study included:
1. Investigating the technical viability of transmitting non-smart meter data (such as temperature readings) through the Data Communication Company (DCC) network.
2. Designing a SmartHub hardware solution capable of interfacing with various IoT sensors and smart heat pumps.
3. Developing cloud-based software for intelligent load control decisions.
4. Assessing the commercial viability and potential consumer adoption of the SmartHub solution.
5. Exploring the financial benefits for consumers, with a focus on DSR revenues.
6. Proposing a viable business model for the widespread implementation of the SmartHub.
Project Outcomes
Our feasibility study has yielded promising results across several key areas:
1. DCC Network Utilisation: We’ve identified a method to transmit non-smart meter data (specifically temperature sensor data) through the DCC network, unlocking new value from existing infrastructure.
2. SmartHub Hardware: We’ve proposed a design for an advanced HCALCS (HAN Connected Auxiliary Load Control Switch) enabled SmartHub with multi-protocol communication capabilities, ensuring interoperability with a wide range of IoT sensors and smart heat pumps.
3. Cloud-based Software: We’ve outlined the requirements for an analytics engine capable of making intelligent load control decisions based on in-home data, consumer preferences, and DSR signals.
4. Consumer Interest: Our user research revealed significant awareness and interest in smart energy devices and DSR among potential consumers, with financial savings being the primary motivator.
5. Financial Benefits: We’ve estimated that a typical consumer could potentially save £100-200 per year through DSR revenues and optimised energy usage with our SmartHub solution.
6. Viable Business Model: We’ve proposed a model where City Science acts as an enabler for energy suppliers to provide automated DSR-enabled smart energy contracts via the SmartHub hardware. This model aligns with key policy principles such as interoperability, data privacy, grid stability, and cybersecurity.
7. Societal Benefits: Beyond individual consumer savings, our solution promises wider benefits including accelerated smart meter rollout, reduced strain on electricity networks, lower carbon emissions, and increased consumer choice.
Outcomes
This project represents a significant step forward in realising the potential of smart flexible heating and demand-side response in the UK. By leveraging the existing smart meter infrastructure and introducing innovative IoT solutions, we’re paving the way for a more flexible, efficient, and sustainable energy future.
Images
Schematic of SmartHub solution
