BeFlexible drives the future of energy flexibility at ENLIT Europe 2024 Cluster Session

BeFlexible made a powerful return to ENLIT Europe 2024 in Milan, which took place from October 22 to 24, leading a pivotal cluster session that gathered industry leaders to discuss the future of energy in Europe. As part of Horizon Europe—the largest innovation funding program in Europe—BeFlexible is actively working to strengthen energy flexibility across the continent. This session tackled key strategies for developing a decentralized, digital, and adaptable energy system aligned with Europe’s climate and innovation goals.

Overcoming regulatory barriers and attracting future investments for greater energy flexibility

Regulation was a central topic, as panelists discussed the challenges faced by Distribution System Operators (DSOs) and flexibility providers, emphasizing the importance of clear incentive structures and flexible acquisition models. Investment strategies were also explored to enhance grid adaptability, highlighting the focus on the final customer and the role of the independent aggregators in supporting grid stability.

Data Spaces and Digitalization: The pathway to innovation

The session also focused on the impact of digitalization and Data Spaces on grid optimization. Through the integration of smart metering and advanced data exchange systems, DSOs can manage energy flow in real-time, boosting efficiency and grid responsiveness. Panelists underscored how digital tools can revolutionize energy management and lay the groundwork for a more innovative and efficient system.

Key speakers leading the charge at ENLIT Europe 2024

The Cluster Session held the October 23 featured prominent industry voices collaborating with BeFlexible, including representatives from our cluster projects ENFLATE and STREAM, each bringing their expertise to the table. This edition included the invaluable participation of Charles Esser, Secretary General of E.DSO, who delivered an insightful keynote speech to kick off the panel discussion titled “Rethinking flexibility markets: What’s the secret to navigating regulatory challenges and customer needs?”.

The discussion was moderated by Susana Garayoa, Institutional Relations at Zabala Innovation Europe and part of BeFlexible, and included contributions from Fernando David Martin Utrilla, Project Coordinator of BeFlexible and DSO Role Responsible in Spain at i-DE (Iberdrola Group); Katerina Drivakou, Coordinator of ENFLATE and Energy Systems Researcher at Ubitech Energy; and Tomi Medved, Coordinator of STREAM and Head of the Laboratory of Energy Policy at the Faculty of Electrical Engineering.

Next Steps for BeFlexible: Moving Towards a Flexible Energy System

Beyond the sessions, BeFlexible and its partners leveraged networking opportunities to build connections with key industry players, strengthening partnerships that will drive future initiatives in sustainable, flexible energy solutions. These exchanges not only enhance BeFlexible’s impact but also align with Horizon Europe’s goals for an innovative and resilient energy model.

As Martín Utrilla stated, “This ENLIT session was particularly interesting because we were able to see how the three projects are fully aligned in the task of unlocking the flexibility to accelerate the energy transition. Once again, we have highlighted the importance of a robust regulation that incentivizes these new flexibility solutions, and a proper architecture of platforms and markets that make it feasible in the most efficient way”.

Looking ahead, BeFlexible will integrate the insights gained at ENLIT Europe into upcoming project reports and phases. Key takeaways from the cluster session of BeFlexible will reinforce the pathway to greater energy flexibility across Europe, consolidating industry knowledge and leadership on these essential advancements.

BeFlexible made a powerful return to ENLIT Europe 2024 in Milan, which took place from October 22 to 24, leading a pivotal cluster session that gathered industry leaders to discuss the future of energy in Europe. As part of Horizon Europe—the largest innovation funding program in Europe—BeFlexible is actively working to strengthen energy flexibility across the continent. This session tackled key strategies for developing a decentralized, digital, and adaptable energy system aligned with Europe’s climate and innovation goals.

Overcoming regulatory barriers and attracting future investments for greater energy flexibility

Regulation was a central topic, as panelists discussed the challenges faced by Distribution System Operators (DSOs) and flexibility providers, emphasizing the importance of clear incentive structures and flexible acquisition models. Investment strategies were also explored to enhance grid adaptability, highlighting the focus on the final customer and the role of the independent aggregators in supporting grid stability.

Data Spaces and Digitalization: The pathway to innovation

The session also focused on the impact of digitalization and Data Spaces on grid optimization. Through the integration of smart metering and advanced data exchange systems, DSOs can manage energy flow in real-time, boosting efficiency and grid responsiveness. Panelists underscored how digital tools can revolutionize energy management and lay the groundwork for a more innovative and efficient system.

Key speakers leading the charge at ENLIT Europe 2024

The Cluster Session held the October 23 featured prominent industry voices collaborating with BeFlexible, including representatives from our cluster projects ENFLATE and STREAM, each bringing their expertise to the table. This edition included the invaluable participation of Charles Esser, Secretary General of E.DSO, who delivered an insightful keynote speech to kick off the panel discussion titled “Rethinking flexibility markets: What’s the secret to navigating regulatory challenges and customer needs?”.

The discussion was moderated by Susana Garayoa, Institutional Relations at Zabala Innovation Europe and part of BeFlexible, and included contributions from Fernando David Martin Utrilla, Project Coordinator of BeFlexible and DSO Role Responsible in Spain at i-DE (Iberdrola Group); Katerina Drivakou, Coordinator of ENFLATE and Energy Systems Researcher at Ubitech Energy; and Tomi Medved, Coordinator of STREAM and Head of the Laboratory of Energy Policy at the Faculty of Electrical Engineering.

Next Steps for BeFlexible: Moving Towards a Flexible Energy System

Beyond the sessions, BeFlexible and its partners leveraged networking opportunities to build connections with key industry players, strengthening partnerships that will drive future initiatives in sustainable, flexible energy solutions. These exchanges not only enhance BeFlexible’s impact but also align with Horizon Europe’s goals for an innovative and resilient energy model.

As Martín Utrilla stated, “This ENLIT session was particularly interesting because we were able to see how the three projects are fully aligned in the task of unlocking the flexibility to accelerate the energy transition. Once again, we have highlighted the importance of a robust regulation that incentivizes these new flexibility solutions, and a proper architecture of platforms and markets that make it feasible in the most efficient way”.

Looking ahead, BeFlexible will integrate the insights gained at ENLIT Europe into upcoming project reports and phases. Key takeaways from the cluster session of BeFlexible will reinforce the pathway to greater energy flexibility across Europe, consolidating industry knowledge and leadership on these essential advancements.

BeFlexible: Halfway towards greater energy flexibility

On October 16th and 17th 2024, the city of Rome hosted the celebration of the second General Assembly meeting of the European project BeFlexible. During this hybrid reunion, all the partners in the consortium shared their latest progress updates, highlighting the work carried out within each work package. Among the highlights is the fact that the project’s pilots are ongoing and already generating valuable data, which will enable further progress toward its established goals.

Towards a more modern and flexible electricity market

One of the main challenges Europe faces is the growing production of renewable energy and the need for a more flexible electricity market capable of integrating a higher proportion of clean energy sources. BeFlexible is developing versatile solutions to enable grids to adapt to future energy scenarios, benefiting all market players.

BeFlexible, coordinated by i-DE, the distribution company of the Iberdrola Group, aims to promote the participation of “prosumers” (producers and consumers of electricity) in renewable energy generation. The project seeks to increase the flexibility of the electrical system, contributing to the transformation of the European energy system towards a more sustainable and adaptable model, in line with the European Union’s commitments to combating climate change.

Key progress and in pilots in Italy, Sweden, Spain, and France

The project’s third General Assembly marked a significant moment for the BeFlexible team to come together and review the progress of the project. All the partners reflected on the advancements made in the last months and discussed key challenges and opportunities shaping the future.

One of the most significant updates from this second year is that BeFlexible has initiated the implementation of its pilots in Italy, Sweden, Spain, and France. These pilots are focused on validating consumer participation strategies and promoting their adoption in the energy market, providing key data for the Consortium to continue working effectively.

Another key point highlighted during the meeting was the close collaboration between the 21 partners and 3 affiliated entities from 7 European countries that make up the consortium. The partners include distribution system operators (DSO), transmission system operators (TSO), aggregators, research and development centers, universities, and industrial technology providers. Their collaboration and knowledge sharing is essential for the success and progress of the project.

This gathering was an invaluable opportunity to strategize for the next phase, ensuring that we remain aligned with our objectives as we move forward in advancing energy flexibility solutions.

Next stop: Enlit Europe

The BeFlexible partners are excited to have another opportunity for an in-person reunion soon, as the project will be participating in Enlit Europe, one of the most influential events in the European energy sector, which will take place in Milan from October 22nd to 24th.

As part of the event, the project will host a special session titled “Rethinking flexibility markets: what’s the secret to navigating regulatory challenges and customer needs?” on October 23rd from 14:30h to 15:30h. We will delve into the latest advancements in the sector, with a special focus on the evolving regulatory frameworks and the key challenges shaping flexibility markets.

In addition to the session, BeFlexible will have a dedicated stand, offering an excellent opportunity for engaging with key stakeholders and attendees from the energy industry.

Click in the image to find all the details about Enlit Europe 2024:

On October 16th and 17th 2024, the city of Rome hosted the celebration of the second General Assembly meeting of the European project BeFlexible. During this hybrid reunion, all the partners in the consortium shared their latest progress updates, highlighting the work carried out within each work package. Among the highlights is the fact that the project’s pilots are ongoing and already generating valuable data, which will enable further progress toward its established goals.

Towards a more modern and flexible electricity market

One of the main challenges Europe faces is the growing production of renewable energy and the need for a more flexible electricity market capable of integrating a higher proportion of clean energy sources. BeFlexible is developing versatile solutions to enable grids to adapt to future energy scenarios, benefiting all market players.

BeFlexible, coordinated by i-DE, the distribution company of the Iberdrola Group, aims to promote the participation of “prosumers” (producers and consumers of electricity) in renewable energy generation. The project seeks to increase the flexibility of the electrical system, contributing to the transformation of the European energy system towards a more sustainable and adaptable model, in line with the European Union’s commitments to combating climate change.

Key progress and in pilots in Italy, Sweden, Spain, and France

The project’s third General Assembly marked a significant moment for the BeFlexible team to come together and review the progress of the project. All the partners reflected on the advancements made in the last months and discussed key challenges and opportunities shaping the future.

One of the most significant updates from this second year is that BeFlexible has initiated the implementation of its pilots in Italy, Sweden, Spain, and France. These pilots are focused on validating consumer participation strategies and promoting their adoption in the energy market, providing key data for the Consortium to continue working effectively.

Another key point highlighted during the meeting was the close collaboration between the 21 partners and 3 affiliated entities from 7 European countries that make up the consortium. The partners include distribution system operators (DSO), transmission system operators (TSO), aggregators, research and development centers, universities, and industrial technology providers. Their collaboration and knowledge sharing is essential for the success and progress of the project.

This gathering was an invaluable opportunity to strategize for the next phase, ensuring that we remain aligned with our objectives as we move forward in advancing energy flexibility solutions.

Next stop: Enlit Europe

The BeFlexible partners are excited to have another opportunity for an in-person reunion soon, as the project will be participating in Enlit Europe, one of the most influential events in the European energy sector, which will take place in Milan from October 22nd to 24th.

As part of the event, the project will host a special session titled “Rethinking flexibility markets: what’s the secret to navigating regulatory challenges and customer needs?” on October 23rd from 14:30h to 15:30h. We will delve into the latest advancements in the sector, with a special focus on the evolving regulatory frameworks and the key challenges shaping flexibility markets.

In addition to the session, BeFlexible will have a dedicated stand, offering an excellent opportunity for engaging with key stakeholders and attendees from the energy industry.

Click in the image to find all the details about Enlit Europe 2024:

BeFlexible returns to Enlit: connecting with the future of energy flexibility

BeFlexible is thrilled to announce its return to Enlit Europe, the leading forum shaping the future of the energy sector and an unmissable event for energy professionals across Europe. This year’s edition will take place from October 22nd to 24th in Milan, Italy.

Enlit is a constantly growing, end-to-end forum that addresses every aspect of the energy agenda. From source to generation, from grid to consumer, the boundaries of the sector are blurring and this evolution is being shaped by established players, external disruptors, innovative start-ups and the increasingly engaged end-user. Enlit brings all of them together to seize current opportunities, spotlight future ones, and inspire the next generation to participate in the journey.

Our project will have a prominent presence at this essential gathering. The first key date to connect with us at Enlit 2024 is October 23rd from 14:30 to 15:30, when we warmly invite you to our cluster session: ‘Rethinking flexibility markets: what’s the secret to navigating regulatory challenges and customer needs?’. We will delve into the latest advancements in the sector, with a special focus on the evolving regulatory frameworks and the key challenges shaping flexibility markets. Don’t miss this chance to engage with thought leaders!

Additionally, we would be delighted to welcome you at the BeFlexible stand throughout the entire event. Come visit us to say hello, learn more about our project, and exchange ideas on the future of energy flexibility in Europe!

Let’s discuss! What’s the secret to navigating regulatory challenges and customer needs?

WHEN: October 23rd, 14:30 – 15:30.

WHERE: EU Projects Zone Hub – Theatre 1 (Hall 6).

As Europe’s energy landscape rapidly evolves, rethinking flexibility markets is key to meeting decarbonization goals and addressing growing consumer needs. With electricity consumption expected to rise by 60% by 2030, and the push for renewable energy integration, the EU Action Plan for Grids highlights the urgent need to modernize and expand Europe’s electricity networks for a decentralized and flexible system. This plan calls for smarter grids, regulatory incentives, and improved grid usage to support the clean energy transition.

In light of this European direction, how can we effectively revamp flexibility markets to keep pace with recent updates and meet consumer demands?

This session will build on the insightful discussions from last year and explore how to revamp flexibility markets to keep pace with regulatory updates and meet consumer demands. We’ll share fresh insights from the BeFlexible, STREAM, and ENFLATE projects, with special guest Charles Esser, Secretary General of the E.DSO distribution operator association, joining the conversation. The focus will be on smart grid connectivity, consumer engagement, regulatory challenges and the need for incentives to drive active participation in this transition.

AGENDA:

  • 14:30: Welcome by Susana Garayoa, Institutional Relations at Zabala Innovation.
  • 14:35: Keynote Speech by Charles Esser, Secretary General of E.DSO.
  • 14:45: Panel session “ Strategies to modernize Europe’s grids for a decentralized, digital, and flexible energy system”
    • David Martín, i-DE, BeFlexible project coordinator.
    • Katerina Drivakou, ENFLATE project coordinator.
    • Tomi Medved, University of Ljubljana, STREAM project coordinator.
  • 15:10: Questions & Answers
  • 15:20: Closing remarks

The session hosted by the BeFlexible, STREAM, and ENFLATE projects at ENLIT 2023.

The session hosted by the BeFlexible, STREAM, and ENFLATE projects at ENLIT 2023.

Our cluster driving energy flexibility

The ongoing collaboration between BEFLEXIBLE, STREAM, and ENFLATE forms a powerful cluster aimed at driving the transition towards a more flexible and sustainable energy system. By working together, these projects can tackle cross-cutting challenges, amplify their impact, and accelerate progress. Funded by the European Commission under the “HORIZON-CL5-2021-D3-02-06 – Increasing energy system flexibility based on sector-integration services to consumers” initiative, all three projects share a common goal: enhancing energy system flexibility and fostering stronger collaboration between Distribution System Operators (DSOs) and Transmission System Operators (TSOs).

Together, we are paving the way for a more resilient, consumer-driven energy future. Here’s a closer look at each project:

  • STREAM is focused on creating a cutting-edge flexibility ecosystem for the low-voltage grid. As the power market becomes more complex with the rise of prosumers, aggregators, and new service providers, STREAM aims to simplify this evolving landscape, ensuring the grid can meet future demands. Discover more.
  • ENFLATE builds on existing data-driven energy solutions, tailoring them to different geographies, climates, and consumer needs. The project will test consumer-centered flexibility platforms across Bulgaria, Greece, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland, engaging local communities, authorities, and businesses. ENFLATE will also explore business models that integrate energy, health, and mobility services to offer holistic benefits. Discover more.
  • BeFlexible is dedicated to boosting energy flexibility by enhancing cooperation between DSOs and TSOs while encouraging active participation from all energy stakeholders. The project is structured around key areas: market and regulatory analysis, defining a service ecosystem, implementing platforms and architectures, and engaging consumers through social co-creation. BeFlexible will demonstrate its versatility in pilot programs across Italy, Sweden, Spain, and France, addressing diverse energy behaviors, grid types, and climates. These pilots will validate strategies to engage consumers and create a more flexible, interconnected energy market. Discover more.

Visit the BeFlexible stand

WHEN: October 22nd to 24th.

WHERE: Hall 5, Basque Pavilion, stand 7F10.

Visit our dedicated stand  during the three days. Our team will be on hand to discuss the exciting innovations we’re working on, and how our solutions can help shape a more flexible and sustainable energy future.

Whether you’re interested in collaboration, have questions about the project, or simply want to connect with like-minded professionals, we look forward to engaging with you!

Join us as we advance strategies for a more flexible, dynamic and inclusive energy future!