Community-based Virtual Power Plant (cVPP): a novel model of radical decarbonisation based on empowerment of low-carbon community driven energy initiatives

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Local power generation by renewable sources is increasing but to have real impact on radical decarbonisation of energy sector, changes are needed to unlock the potential of prosumer. This project proposes community-based Virtual Power Plant (cVPP), a novel model that can help organise & significantly boost renewable energy production & distribution at a local level. A virtual power plant (VPP) refers to a cluster of dispersed generator units, controllable loads & storage systems, aggregated to operate as a unique power plant. It enables integration of renewables & flexibility in demand in energy markets. There are several VPP designs on the market (esp. in Germany). The concept has been developed by various (large) organisations (Siemens, E-on) but its implementation remained limited due to top-down focus on technical parameters. Community-based version of a VPP is bottom-up & focusses on sustainability issues. By organizing a form of Collective Power, that is increasing the level of participation & control of the local community, the cVPP aims at taking the development of the VPP a step further. The concept offers a community the opportunity to provide its energy needs with small-scale, distributed low-carbon technologies with participation from individual consumers, local energy companies or SMEs. It can empower prosumers and contribute to democratisation of energy markets. This process spurs awareness & public engagement in the energy transition. By doing so, it facilitates upscaling of low-carbon energy community-driven initiatives that, so far, missed critical mass to trigger the energy transition. This project will: 1) Jointly conceptualise & test cVPP in 4 different markets of BE, NL, UK, IRL with an aim to maximise interconnectedness of the cVPPs, joint influence & learning about different institutional contexts influencing implementation of cVPP; 2) Cocreate a Mobilisation& Replication (MoRe) model based on practical lessons from realisation of different cVPP designs in 4 locations & cultures, supported by theoretical insights & interviews. MoRe aims to enable propagation of cVPP to other territories by accounting for local preferences & aims, & by provision of guidance to communities on how to address emerging barriers to cVPP implementation in their areas; 3) Test & assess the MoRe by replicating in follower communities that will be identified & actively engaged in the process. After its end, the project will contribute to further roll-out of the cVPP to other NWE & European areas by dissemenation of business plans & guidance. In 10 yrs, the investments will stimulate the development of ca 50 new cVPPs in Europe, motivating environmental (450 KT CO2 emission reduction), social (4500 jobs) & economic (25000 houses with improved energy classification) effects that will proliferate further into the future. This replication will form the basis for the establishment of the EU cVPP network.

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