Interview with Dr. Wolfram Krause (eTelligence)

In an interview, Dr. Wolfram Krause - project manager of the model region of Cuxhaven - explains the key features of the eTelligence E-Energy project.

What is the primary idea behind eTelligence?
eTelligence focuses on the intelligent system integration of power producers and consumers. By "system integration", we mean that aspects of both the power grid and the market are taken into consideration. In terms of the power grid,we must ensure that even a large percentage of decentralized power producers - such as wind farms - do not jeopardize supply security. With regard to the market, the objective is to integrate all the stakeholders. This intelligent system integration of large and small market players is only possible with modern ICT solutions. Market regulations, products and access mechanisms also have to be defined to make this a reality.

What is the main thrust of eTelligence?
The eTelligence project unites electricity producers, consumers, energy service providers and power grid operators in an innovative energy marketplace. Even small stakeholders are to be integrated via a sustainable, future-proof ICT infrastructure. The aim is to bring the electricity consumption of industry, business and private households in line with the power generation by decentralized energy sources, including wind farms. For example, a refrigerated warehouse can be cooled more than usual if winds are high. Intelligence for energy, markets and power grids. These cooling reserves can then be used to react to a temporary period when winds are low. The cooling units are throttled, the temperature in the refrigeration area increases and fluctuations in the wind energy fed in are balanced out.

Are there different focal areas within the project?
Three separate levels form the focus of the eTelligence project, namely the marketplace, ICT infrastructure and technology. The regional marketplace for electricity brings together the supply and demand of the individual stakeholders. The ICT infrastructure links the individual components at both the field and business process level and is the bedrock of innovative applications. At the technology level, smart business management mechanisms are developed to optimally integrate the stakeholders into the overall system while taking their specific characteristics and individual needs into account.

Further information on eTelligence...