Local energy markets as a solution for increased energy efficiency and flexibility

With increasing share of distributed renewable energy resources in the grid and arising energy consumer awareness on environmental challenges new market models are sought where energy can be traded in an efficient and end-user centric way. This trend, together with the increasing consciousness on the benefits of local consumption and production has given rise to an increased focus on local energy market structures. Within the E-REGIO project, funded through the ERA-Net Smart Grid Plus initiative, local energy markets have been paid particular attention. This paper discusses opportunities associated with local energy trading, as verified through the E-REGIO local energy system pilot - Skagerak EnergiLab in Norway. Embracing, among others, local loads, energy storage system, PV generation and a large consumer (stadium facility), the pilot-based simulations have produced some useful insides on the implementation of local energy markets and have helped collect learnings that can be of benefit for future local energy market establishments.