Challenge

Clean, flexible, decentralised, and digital energy systems are central to meeting the EU’s goal of climate neutrality by 2050 (EuropeanGreen Deal, EC, 2019). Renewables deployment is rapidly progressing, to meet rising electricity demand of 6,800 TWh by 2050 (Fit for55, EC, 2021). However, poor management of this intermittent energy already leads to costly grid congestion, particularly in NSRcountries where renewable generation is world leading. If no action is taken, €565bn will be required for grid reinforcement by 2030(Bloomberg, 2022).

Local authorities (LAs) will gradually take over from Distribution System Operators (DSOs) as lead coordinators of the future energysystem, unlocking the necessary green investments locally e.g. full-electric neighbourhoods in the Netherlands cannot connect to thegrid. LAs will lead the delivery of this flexible and net zero energy grid of the future, supported by DSOs (REPowerEU Plan, EC, 2022).

Objective

COPPER supports NSR LAs to fulfil their emerging role as local energy grid coordinators (Ofgem, 2022). It positions NSR as a pioneerin future local energy system management, benefitting all energy stakeholders through flexible and clean energy grids. It builds localcapacity by delivering a joint digital toolbox guiding NSR cities in local energy planning, market facilitation, and infrastructuredelivery.

Pilots

DSOs support COPPER cities to deliver smart grid pilots across 6 unique NSR policy contexts (generation, mobility, storage,monitoring) to increase local renewables uptake, improve grid flexibility, and reduce costs for developers and communities. Pilotoutputs will help to build LAs capacity to coordinate and deliver long-term local focussed energy strategy.

Novel Transnational Approach

Each territory’s energy policy and market generate unique technology and commercial solutions. COPPER brings these together forcities’ collaborative learning to inform the local energy plans’ (LEPs) and replication beyond.