A systemic approach to investigate the gaps between distribution system operators need and technology developers’ perception—A case study of an intelligent low-voltage grid management system with storage

Abstract

The purpose of the paper is to introduce a new bi-directional approach to assess the gapbetween the customer needs and technology developers’ perception on the value propositions ofinnovations which includes storages. The paper used two methods; the first comprehensive senseand respond analysis investigated technology developers’ perceptions using the value propositionsdefined under the EU-funded H2020 RESOLVD project. The second method focused on customersand collected a survey which covered challenges, value propositions and preparedness to adopt newtechnology. The H2020 RESOLVD project has developed an intelligent low-voltage grid managementsystem with storage. The results from the sense and respond analysis showed that most of thevalue propositions aligned with the responses from the broader survey which are needed within fiveyears (e.g., improved power quality of grid, fault detection, reduced technical loss). However, thecybersecurity perception differed between developers and distribution system operators (DSOs). Thecustomer survey highlighted that certain value propositions of technological solutions are neededmore urgently than others, and therefore, technology developers should prioritize these in furtherdevelopments. Regarding the use of flexibility to manage the LV grid, unclear regulations wereexpressed as a key barrier, thereby affecting business feasibility around battery storage.