New modular microservice-oriented platform redefines energy management for everyone
As we shift towards renewable energy, distribution system operators need new tools to manage unpredictable energy sources and changing consumption patterns. Traditionally, these two aspects have been addressed separately. The EU-funded PlatOne project is changing this through shared data management, making grid management more efficient.
A three-layered approach
Project members have developed the Platone Open Framework that consists of three open-source components that facilitate peer-to-peer market models across distribution system operators (DSOs), transmission system operators, customers and aggregators. These components include a DSO Technical Platform for deploying distribution grid services, a Flexibility Market Platform to ensure fair market participation for all stakeholders and a blockchain access layer for secure energy data sharing.
Modernising grid management through microservices
“The Platone DSO Technical Platform, building on the foundations laid by SOGNO (Service-based Open-Source Grid automation platform for Network Operation of the future), is transforming the way utility companies operate,” states project coordinator Antonello Monti. SOGNO leverages cloud-native microservices to create a flexible, modular system for data-driven monitoring and control. This enables utilities to adapt to evolving needs by adding components over time. “The platform uses this microservice-based architecture to deploy various services such as state estimation, load prediction and microgrid management. This design not only enhances flexibility but also allows for seamless integration with existing proprietary and cloud-based DSO platforms,” explains Monti.
Promoting transparency and putting customers at the centre
“PlatOne is transforming the way DSOs function, using cutting-edge blockchain technology to automate and decentralise processes,” adds Monti. The layer 1 blockchain integrates, models and secures diverse energy data from the physical infrastructure, preventing tampering. Leveraging blockchain technology, the framework integrates IoT metering devices with unique identifiers, certifies and verifies measurements and manages data access to ensure control and governance. “The Platone Open Framework prioritises its users, catering to their needs and expectations, leveraging the potential of blockchain for more dynamic customer interactions. With its real-time grid observability, our framework ensures transparency in data sharing, encouraging customers to actively participate in local flexibility markets,” highlights Monti. What’s more, use of energy storage allows the grid to operate in cooperation with customers, providing flexibility without intruding on privacy or disrupting daily life.
Pilot demonstrations
In Italy, the Platone Open Framework was adapted to enable flexibility activation through the Platone market mechanism. This included installing a light node at users’ premises to collect data from DSO smart meters and relay activation commands to customers’ systems. A local flexibility market was also established for DSOs to engage distributed energy resource (DER), reducing grid congestion by matching demands with aggregated bids. The Blockchain Access Layer (2) further boosted trust in this market by certifying real-time meter measurements. In Greece, the focus was on enhancing grid observability and controllability using phasor measurement units. A network tariffs model was created to analyse historical data to optimise DER control and facilitate real-time ancillary services. A state estimation tool was also developed to estimate the grid’s operating state. In Germany, efforts were directed towards increasing the self-sufficiency of renewable energy communities. To this end, a local flexibility controller was developed to balance between local generation and consumption. “Platone’s impact extends through its forward-looking initiatives, ensuring its platform extends beyond its primary scope. Its inclusion in the LFE project guarantees sustainability and promotes global collaboration by aligning with similar initiatives across the globe,” concludes Monti.
Keywords
PlatOne, blockchain, DSO, Platone Open Framework, open-source, grid management, distribution system operator, distributed energy resource