In the Scanian village of Simris, we have created Sweden’s first local energy system. During a trial period, the system will make the village completely self-sufficient every fifth week, using 100 % renewable and locally produced electricity.

What are local energy systems, and why do we invest in them?

To create a more sustainable future, we need to utilize local, renewable energy sources and use the energy in a smarter way. People also show an increased interest in producing their own electricity, mainly via solar cells on their roofs. This presents new challenges for how we produce and distribute electricity in our grids. How do we secure we can deliver a stable, reliable voltage to our customers, using a system containing many small and weather-dependant production facilities? In Simris, we seek the answers.

This is how it works

Man walking his dog in Simris.

Production where it’s needed

A solar PV park and wind turbines are already in place in Simris. That’s why this is a perfect spot to conduct tests. We have connected the wind turbine and the solar cell facility to a smart control system, a storage battery and a bio-fuelled backup power generator.

Solar cells in Simris.

The heart of the system

The smart control system functions as the heart of the unique electricity system in Simris. Fifty times per second, it ensures that the voltage is exactly right, and that the local electricity production is aligned with consumer needs and usage.

Wind mill and solar panels in Simris

All energy is used

When the wind blows, the sun shines and the energy consumption is low, the electricity is stored in the large battery in Simris. When it is fully charged, the energy system connects to the central grid and transfers excess production.

Karin Lefvert in Simris.

The whole of Simris contributes

To store the excess energy, equipment such as heat pumps and solar cell batteries owned and shared by the people of Simris is used. There is a genuine commitment, and many contribute to the village’s new energy system.

Local energy systems – FAQ

  • Why do you invest in local energy systems?
    Looking into the future, we believe people will be interested in getting together to solve their electricity needs with locally produced, preferably renewable, energy. This will happen on a larger scale in 10, 20 or perhaps 30 years. We see a business opportunity here, as we have a long and solid experience in constructing and operating facilities. But small micro grids have particular demands and partly different technology requirements. To be able to meet demand, we must learn to use the technology in the right way. We are one of the few companies that are able to do this.
  • Why has E.ON Energidistribution selected Simris?
    We choose areas in our electricity grids where we believe a local energy system can work, based on how the electricity grid is built today. We also consider which customer categories that live in the area and any potential local advantages, such as collaborations or already existing renewable production. We’ve taken particular interest in islands and coastal areas, as those are suitable from a wind perspective.
  • Who funds the Simris project?
    The project is supported by the EU innovation project Horizon2020 and their InterFlex programme. The project has cost approximately 35 million SEK, whereof E.ON has funded 50 percent.