IrDEA outlines the demand flexibility benefits of district energy systems in its submission to the Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU) on a proposed ESB Networks Demand Flexibility Procurement Process as part of its public consultation process.
The Irish District Energy Association (IrDEA) has today made a submission responding to the ESB Networks Demand Flexibility Consultation call for responses.
Emphasizing the enormous potential of Thermal Energy Storage (TES) for enhancing grid flexibility and sustainability, IrDEA CEO, Yvonne Murphy commented,
IrDEA views the proposal to procure demand flexibility for Ireland’s electricity grid as a key opportunity to integrate district energy systems into Ireland's energy market. One of the lesser publicised strengths of district energy systems is their ability to link the electricity and heat markets to one another, offering signficiant flexibility energy storage options that are well proven, cost effective, and well within financial and technological reach here in Ireland.
As part of its submission, IrDEA advocated for policies that support multi-market participation of flexible assets, emphasising that district energy, through TES, can significantly contribute to demand reduction, shift, and grid stability, ultimately reducing carbon emissions and supporting Ireland's renewable energy goals.
With several key recommendations submitted as part of this consultation response, IrDEA has aimed to highlight the need to consider the unique benefits and capabilities of district energy solutions as part of the design and rollout of this procurement process.
Ms Murphy concluded in stating,
For me, a systems based approach is crucial to achieving our net zero goals. We must tackle waste by improving efficiency and systems integration, both of which are benefits that district energy can bring to the Irish heat and electricity markets.
Ends
Download the full submission here.
