A demand-side optimisation framework for assessing energy flexibility potential of integrated energy systems in building complex

This study presents an energy management system for residential buildings based on advanced demand-side management strategies that can assess building energy flexibility potential. A case study of a Dublin-based condominium equipped with a hybrid energy system – consisting of a heat pump, gas boiler, solar photovoltaic panels, and thermal energy storage – is investigated. The optimisation algorithm adjusts the energy system schedule to minimise daily operational costs while meeting thermal and electrical demands. Demand response actions are introduced and evaluated in terms of energy flexibility potential and marginal cost. Simulations for a typical winter week indicate that triggering demand response actions leads to increased operational costs, which can be interpreted as the cost of flexibility – a key parameter for shaping flexibility markets. Additionally, the study examines the influence of various parameters (such as, thermal storage sizing, commodity prices, time of use tariffs, solar PV integration, etc.) to provide valuable insights into the economic and technical feasibility of energy flexibility in residential buildings under different scenarios. The findings contribute to the development of energy management strategies and flexibility market mechanisms aimed at enhancing grid stability, which is essential to achieve a large penetration share of renewable energy sources into the energy mix. • Smart management systems can optimise costs and unlock building energy flexibility. • Flexibility potential and its marginal cost can be assessed at aggregated level. • Access to real-time pricing unlocks highest flexibility potential. • Optimal sizing of thermal storage can be determined.