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.
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.
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.
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.
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.