Due to congestion on the electricity grid, Enexis has a waiting list for companies that require a new or heavier connection. This makes it difficult for these companies to grow and electrify their operations. What can you do if your electricity needs exceed the capacity set out in your contract? One option is to look for alternative solutions yourself. That is exactly what Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e) did.
Every day, around 15,000 people work and study on the vast Eindhoven campus. In addition to more than 40 university buildings, the site is home to over 100 knowledge institutes and high-tech companies. The campus operates its own closed electricity system, with a central 9.5 MW connection to the Enexis grid.
‘Our biggest challenge at the moment is ensuring that we continue to have sufficient electricity capacity,’ says Thijs Meulen, energy management and building automation consultant at TU/e. ‘We plan to complete two new buildings in 2028 and 2029, and we also need additional capacity to further reduce emissions and become fully gas-free.’
Too high a peak
Thanks to its own heat network and 35 heat pumps, the university has already significantly reduced its gas consumption. On cold days, however, this leads to sharp peaks in electricity demand. On one such day, consumption even exceeded the contracted capacity. ‘To prevent this from happening again, we started looking for solutions. Together with 10 partners, we have been working for several years on innovative ways to make optimal use of the capacity we already have.’
Initial solutions
As a first step, TU/e invested in a large 3.4 MW battery system to absorb peak demand. ‘We charge the battery using the 3,500 solar panels on campus, or with grid electricity when prices are low. When the battery is not needed for our own use, its capacity can be deployed to help relieve pressure on the grid.’
A second step focuses on more evenly distributing electricity demand over time. ‘This prevents all heat pumps from switching on simultaneously. We are therefore developing software that predicts the energy demand of our buildings for the following day. Based on these forecasts, we can deploy the battery, regulate the heat pumps, or temporarily reduce the charging capacity of electric vehicle charging stations. Our focus is on predictability and flexibility.’
Becoming independent
According to Meulen, it is not only technical innovations that make the difference, but also human choices. ‘If students and staff adjust their behaviour, we can achieve additional energy savings, for example in heating and cooling,’ he explains. ‘We currently have a dedicated team exploring the opportunities in this area.’
The next step in the project is to integrate innovations and start-ups into the campus energy system, further reducing dependence on the electricity grid. ‘One option we are exploring is energy generation using iron powder and hydrogen. This could create surplus capacity that Enexis could then use to help relieve grid congestion.’
Advice for others
What advice does Thijs Meulen have for other campuses and business parks facing grid congestion? ‘Within your existing capacity, there is often more room than you think. Make sure you have a clear understanding of your energy consumption, identify where your flexibility lies, and invest in greater independence through your own generation and battery storage.’