Tools for Estimating Available Flexibility in Districts: A Swiss Case Study

Tomasz Gorecki - Flexibility is increasingly recognized as a cost-effective alternative to physical grid reinforcement in low-voltage (LV) networks. However, a significant gap remains with regards practical tools that can accurately estimate the technical and economic flexibility potential of distributed energy resources such as batteries, photovoltaic (PV) systems, and electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure within existing networks. 

To address this need, CSEM has developed a suite of tools designed to quantify available flexibility at the district level with high resolution. Unlike approaches based solely on installed capacity, these tools provide a realistic assessment of the dispatchable power potential by considering real-world constraints and behaviors. They are also designed to work with publicly available data, minimizing the data burden on end users. 

We present a Swiss case study to demonstrate the application of these tools, focusing on the implications of the newly introduced regulation allowing distribution system operators (DSOs) to curtail up to 3% of annual PV production. The study illustrates how our methodology can help stakeholders understand the practical impact of such policy changes and better inform flexibility planning at the local level.