Evolving role of distribution system operators in end user engagement

摘要

The European Commission communication on delivering a new deal for energy consumers places the citizens at the centre of the Energy Union, "where they take ownership of the energy transition, benefit from new technologies to reduce their bills, participate actively in the market, and where vulnerable consumers are protected". Smart metering infrastructure is an enabling technology towards consumer empowerment, allowing for consumers' active participation in the energy market and promoting system flexibility through demand response schemes and other innovative services. It is the consumer's use of the smart metering systems however - and not the infrastructure in itself - that will improve system efficiency and ultimately lead to energy savings. In this context, the present paper will provide an overview of some surveys carried out at European level to help shedding light on which attitudes, preferences and concerns drive the consumption behaviour of European consumers and influence their engagement with new smart grid technologies. These insights will be taken into account to analyse the distribution system operator's (DSO) position in the future development of local distribution grids and energy related services. In particular, the role of technology acceptance and consumer engagement with the new technologies and solutions will be highlighted. Finally, conclusions on the need to further investigate different solutions, putting consumers at centre stage of their development, will be drawn.