Buildings have a key role to play in the energy transition, and specifically in demand response. As we move towards a greener, smarter energy system, the building, and its ability to connect to its surroundings, must be viewed as an active and flexible part of the overall energy ecosystem.
The Commission’s Clean Energy Package provides a much-needed regulatory framework for consumer flexibility and demand response in Europe, from access to dynamic pricing contracts and smart meters, to equal treatment for all energy market participants. Short-term markets, as close to real time as possible, will better integrate renewable energy and demand-side flexibility into the system.
Buildings, appliances, automated systems, storage potential, and electric vehicle infrastructure can offer great energy savings and flexibility, in response to the wider needs of the grid distribution system and wholesale price signals, and to balance renewable energy.
In the SEDC we want to see buildings fully utilised as tools for demand response, and see four key opportunities within the EPBD to do so: (1) The Smartness Indicator (2) Building automation and control (3) Electric vehicles (4) Long term planning and financing