Atmos

Theme: Smart energy Hubs

Research topic: Design a framework for Smart Control Strategies in Energy Hubs

Because smart energy hubs are composed of various types of energy carriers, a significant challenge to their successful implementation is developing algorithms to determine the optimal production, distribution, and storage of each energy source at any given time. Develop and test advanced control algorithms to solve an optimization problem which includes heat and electricity storage devices and multiple energy carriers for such a system.

Theme: Demand Response

Research topic 1: Evaluating flexibility and demand response potential for large energy consumers, in an energy hub context case study.

This research focuses on assessing the flexibility in large-scale consumers’ energy use, such as their ability to shift or reduce demand. It proposes a framework that integrates energy profile analysis tools and company-specific questionnaires to identify flexibility potential. By combining data-driven insights on consumption patterns with operational details gathered from stakeholders, the approach models process constraints, energy storage, and generation opportunities. This method quantifies flexibility and provides actionable strategies for optimizing demand-side management. The framework enables large consumers and energy hubs to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and support grid sustainability.

Research topic 2: Unlocking Industrial Demand Response: Assessing Economic Incentives and Sectoral Engagement for Grid Reliability

The participation of companies in congestion management through demand response remains limited, despite its critical role in alleviating electricity supply shortages on the grid. In this thesis topic, you will assess the financial framework required to enable demand response participation among industries. The research will explore which types of industries can be engaged with the lowest economic incentives, which sectors present the greatest challenges, and the parameters that influence these outcomes. By evaluating these factors, the goal of this thesis topic is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the economic dynamics underlying industrial demand response and its role in enhancing grid reliability.

Theme: Hydrogen

Research Topic: Decentralized Hydrogen Production for Grid Congestion Management in the Netherlands: Feasibility and Economic Potential.

This thesis explores the role and viability of decentralized hydrogen production in mitigating grid congestion challenges in the Netherlands. With electrolyzers producing hydrogen during periods of excess grid capacity and stored hydrogen used in fuel cells during shortages, this approach presents a potential solution for enhancing grid stability. The research will evaluate the technical feasibility, costs, and revenue potential of such a system. By analyzing the economic dynamics and operational impacts, the study aims to provide insights into the effectiveness of decentralized hydrogen production as a congestion management strategy and its role in supporting the energy transition.

Theme: BESS grid tarrifs

Research topic: Assessing the Impact of Tariff Structures on Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) Projects in the Netherlands

This thesis aims to evaluate how various tariff structures, such as kWmax-weighted tariffs, ATR85, and others, influence the economic viability of different types of Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) projects in the Netherlands. High grid fees and limited exemptions have hindered BESS development compared to countries like Belgium and the UK, where policies have successfully supported such systems. By analyzing the specific impacts of these tariff models on various BESS applications—ranging from peak shaving to grid services—the research will identify barriers and opportunities for improving feasibility. Insights from successful international policies will be leveraged to propose targeted recommendations for optimizing tariff structures and enhancing BESS deployment.

Please contact RePowered to discuss further career or thesis opportunities via: bridget.sandbothe@repowered.nl.