Energy renovations to eliminate bottlenecks in local electrical grids

To mitigate climate change, reducing energy use in existing buildings is crucial. Improved energy efficiency also improves the possibility for flexibility in energy use, which is vital for a sustainable transition. However, there are few studies on what impact energy renovation has on the energy flexibility of buildings. This is important both for building owners, due to energy tariffs, and for local electricity and district heating networks, whose supply capacity is limited by the heating needs of connected buildings in winter.

This project aims to show the potential of different energy renovation measures and smart, flexible heat control in electrically heated buildings, mainly single-family houses. Another aim is to show how reduced maximum electricity demand for a larger number of electrically heated buildings locks up electrical capacity in the local electricity grid. By highlighting these double benefits, the long-term goal is to increase the pace of energy renovations.

A reference group with representatives from Anthesis, Energi- och klimatrådgivningen in Borås, Nätkraft Borås and Energieffektiviseringsföreningen is associated with the project.