Innovation in energy management
Advanced energy management to integrate more generation, maximise efficiency and deliver value to the customer
The energy transition requires not only new technologies but also a profound transformation in the way energy is managed. At Iberdrola, we promote this evolution through innovative solutions that allow the integration of increasing volumes of energy sources, optimisation of distributed resource use and provision of value-added services to users. Digitalisation, artificial intelligence and cybersecurity are key elements in this process, which adapts to the particularities of each country.
Energy management
In Spain, we lead the development of solutions that enable progress towards a more flexible, robust and fully renewable electricity system. A notable example is the FLEXENER project, which has researched new technologies for the integration of generation, storage and demand, developing control tools such as grid forming and flexibility management systems. We also focus on Virtual Power Plants (VPPs) as a key solution for managing distributed generation and demand resources. These platforms allow the internal redistribution of energy resources optimally in response to weather or system variations, providing flexibility, reliable production and grid services. In this regard, the advances achieved in the Posytyf project stand out, focusing on the provision of balancing and voltage control services through VPPs, which have supported Iberdrola’s own development in this technology and have been recognised with the ISGAN (International Smart Grid Action Networks) Excellence Award. From this experience, FLEXIDERMS has emerged, focused on developing an intelligent system for the aggregated management of distributed energy resources, optimising prosumer participation and facilitating new business models based on flexibility.
From Iberdrola’s innovation centre in Qatar, we develop advanced solutions to improve energy management in dynamic electricity markets. These include tools for wholesale market price forecasting using advanced analytics, platforms for the aggregation and operation of flexible loads such as electric vehicles and HVAC (Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning) systems, as well as initiatives to enhance smart metering infrastructure through power line communication technologies. These tools strengthen operational efficiency, the integration of distributed resources and grid digitalisation, contributing to smarter, more flexible and market-oriented energy management.
In addition, we work on complementary projects such as DEFINER, focused on flexible demand management in markets with high renewable penetration; AVANHID, which researches the control and optimised integration of advanced hydraulic generation systems; ONE SYSTEM, which proposes a simulation model representing the interaction between electricity, decarbonised gases and green hydrogen; and PERAL, which develops voltage control strategies integrating synchronous and asynchronous generation, storage, flexible demand and self-consumption in a unified vision.
In Brazil, we have developed technological solutions that improve the quality of electricity supply and allow a more precise analysis of network behaviour. A notable example is the GODEL PQA-900 project, which has resulted in a class A measurement device capable of recording continuous waveforms without loss of information. This capability enables more detailed technical diagnostics and provides customers with more complete responses regarding service quality, meeting national and international regulatory standards.
In Mexico, we have focused our efforts on automating key processes to improve operational efficiency and the quality of energy management. Tools have been developed to anticipate critical hours with lower operational reserve margins through algorithms that automate data extraction and analysis, generating predictive reports visually and efficiently. Likewise, the development of the GESEN Data Warehouse project has allowed us to centralise and organise large volumes of operational data, facilitating access to historical information and improving decision-making through advanced analytical tools. This digital transformation strengthens our capacity in Mexico to operate more agilely, safely and data-driven.
Blockchain technology has its place in the energy sector to ensure traceability, security and efficiency in key processes. Iberdrola has developed a compliance platform that allows secure and verifiable document sharing. It has also implemented a 100% renewable energy accreditation system that traces electricity from generation to consumption.