SOTA analysis, barriers, regulatory framework and end-users' requirements

This document provides a comprehensive analysis of the current landscape and future potential of Intelligent Grid-Forming Buildings (iGFBs) in the European Union. It addresses the multifaceted nature of integrating iGFBs into the energy sector, covering technological, regulatory, and societal aspects. The adoption of iGFBs faces several challenges, including diverse national regulatory frameworks and the technological hurdles associated with ensuring interoperability standards between smart buildings’ technologies.

The report thoroughly reviews and summarizes the interoperability and integration technologies used in iGFBs across the energy sector. It provides an in-depth analysis of both technical and economic factors, highlighting interoperability challenges and proposing viable solutions. In addition, insights from European research projects and initiatives shed light on progress and obstacles in the fields of demand-side flexibility and interoperability of energy systems and networks.

A basic overview of iGFB concepts is provided, highlighting their potential to provide services to energy System Operators through flexibility and local energy generation. It identifies key stakeholders in the iGFB value chain, presents a high-level use case methodology for describing iGFB concepts, and proposes stakeholder engagement tools.

Significantly, the report assesses the barriers and regulatory environment necessary for the development and widespread adoption of the iGFBs in Europe. The document specifically considers the context of the WeForming project, which will implement six iGFB demonstrations in different EU countries.