A smart local flexible energy market trial dubbed the Urban Energy Club has started offering simulated flexibility services after the installation of a new battery.
Having already offered peer-to-peer energy trading via blockchain, the project has now seen a 10kW/20kWh battery system connected to the pre-existing 37kWh solar PV system installed on the roof of the block of flats in Brixton.
This has enabled a three month live trial where the battery provided simulated flexible power services to respond to supply and demand in the area.
Through the trial, residents saved around £7.50 on their monthly electricity bills from using the solar as well as provided flexibility services to UK Power Networks. The solar energy also helped provide 42% of household electricity on average.
Run by UK Power Network, EDF and community energy group Repowering London, the Urban Energy Club element of the project was first announced in October 2019.
It came alongside Project CommUNITY, which is also located at the Elmore House block of flats and involved the development and trialing of the P2P element.
Rebecca Rosling, head of smart customers at EDF R&D UK Centre, said: “The project demonstrates not only how densely populated areas can access renewable energy at a lower cost, but also how the power network can benefit from our renewable assets as well.”
