On-site supply is a central topic for the transformation of the energy system. However, on-site supply concepts for the use of flexibility options to increase local RE self-consumption are currently only applied within individual buildings - in single-family homes and occasionally in multi-family homes, through tenant electricity solutions. An overwhelming share of citizens (especially in the rental environment) is therefore merely observers of the energy transition and the RE expansion.

Against this background, we conducted a study as part of the CINES Dimension On-Site Supply, in which the use of energy flexibility options in so-called »on-site systems« was investigated using the example of a real residential neighborhood. Three different scenario groups were considered. The results of the study were presented today in a webinar and subsequently discussed with experts and participants.

Dr. Matthias Leuthold from Trianel addressed the complexity of transforming the energy system and the regulatory barriers. He emphasized the importance of local concepts for flexibility and system integration of renewable energies. Linda Babilon from dena addressed the question of which actors are relevant for on-site systems. She reiterated that, in addition to municipal utilities and grid operators, the participation of citizens should also be considered. Yakup Kaya from Vonovia spoke from the perspective of the developer of the residential neighborhood considered in the study. He noted that there is a need to implement more green heat in neighborhoods, and that this should be accompanied by a technology transformation from fossil heat generation to climate-neutral heat supply with heat pumps. In his view, new subsidies for energy storage are needed. Load management can also contribute in the local energy system.

Dr. Matthias Kühnbach, head of the CINES Dimension On-Site Supply: »Insofar as on-site systems provide solution contributions to activate flexibility and stimulate system-serving behavior, they represent added value and a supplement to the central energy system.«

Key findings of the study at a glance:

• Building and cross-sector energy supply concepts tap synergy effects and increase local RE self-consumption.
• Significant CO₂ and primary energy reduction through use of flexibility potentials.
• On-site concepts offer the possibility to additionally relieve the upstream energy system by using flexibility.

At CINES, we deal with the topic of on-site supply. Here you can download our new study »On-site systems as a flexible building block in the energy system - A cross-sectoral potential analysis« (in German). Learn more about our work in the field of on-site supply here. Contact us or write to us.