#6 Less loss, More energy
Contact
Vincent Métrailler
Strategic Digital Development Manager
Product Owner Load Curve
Romande Energie SA
Context
Energy distribution networks are undergoing several major transformations: the growing integration of decentralized renewable energy sources (solar, wind), the rise of self-consumption communities, the emergence of new consumer types (such as heat pumps and electric vehicle charging), and the influence of external factors like weather variability.
This increasing complexity particularly affects medium- and low-voltage levels, which still lack precise, real-time monitoring tools.
In this context, technical losses are becoming increasingly difficult to control. Although they cannot always be precisely quantified or attributed, they directly impact the network usage costs borne by end users. Controlling these losses is therefore essential—not only to reduce economic burdens but also to avoid energy waste, which runs counter to the objectives of the energy transition.
Challenge
How can a DSO improve monitoring, modeling, and control of its multi-level network to reduce energy losses, while accounting for the intermittent input of renewables, new consumer profiles, external factors, and new practices like collective self-consumption?
Objectives
This challenge touches on multiple aspects, and the objectives are equally diverse, organized into four main areas:
- Smart monitoring : Implement a real-time monitoring system across all network levels (high, medium, and low voltage) by aggregating data from existing tools (SCADA, remote reading, smart metering).
- Modeling & simulation : Assess losses and simulate the impact of different scenarios (e.g. variable solar production, external injections, network couplings, changing consumption patterns).
- Forecasting & optimization : Develop data analytics and forecasting tools (e.g. AI, statistical models) to anticipate losses and optimize network operation.
- Techno-economic framework & governance : Evaluate the cost-effectiveness of proposed measures, define cost allocation models, and build a scalable deployment plan with the appropriate partners.
The ultimate goal is to provide the DSO with a robust decision-support tool capable of measurably reducing losses while incorporating ongoing developments in the energy sector.
Given the complexity of the challenge, partial solutions addressing one or more of the above-mentioned areas are also welcome.
Partner
As a multi-service energy provider and the leading electricity supplier in French-speaking Switzerland, the Romande Energie Group offers its customers a wide range of sustainable solutions that help reduce CO₂ emissions.
Romande Energie aims to make French-speaking Switzerland the first decarbonized region in the country. Supporting the people of this region on the path to a sustainable future lies at the very heart of its purpose.
Do you have an idea, solution or technology to meet this challenge?
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