Efficient energy management

CSIRO is finding ways to intelligently manage the way energy is used, transmitted and generated to reduce emissions, minimise energy consumption and save money.

• 11 March 2010 | Updated 14 October 2011

• Research projects

Generating power close to where it is needed, or managing when and how energy is delivered and used, can:

• improve energy efficiency
• minimise energy consumption
• reduce peak demand on the electricity grid
• save money.
  Scientists are developing control systems using advanced communication and information technologies to manage and use energy more intelligently.

Decentralising power supply by switching to local energy sources can also reduce transmission and distribution losses and in turn reduce carbon emissions.

CSIRO is developing new grid design and operation techniques for electricity networks to improve reliability and efficiency, and support the integration of renewable energy sources into the wider grid.

Scientists are also developing control systems using advanced communication and information technologies to manage and use energy more intelligently.

Research projects

Current research projects are:

• Secure grids - working on ways to improve the reliability of electricity networks by increasing efficiency, removing common points of failure and supporting the integration of renewables
• Utility simulation tools - developing computer-based tools which can predict the energy usage, consumer comfort and customer satisfaction effects of action taken by energy utilities in managing their network
• The Virtual Power Station - creating a web-based control system which intelligently aggregates renewable energy generators, such as solar panels and wind turbines, and energy storage into a cost-effective and reliable electricity supply network
• Smart fridges - linking networks of fridges which are able to plan ahead and coordinate when they consume energy in order to smooth the intermittent power output from renewable generators such as wind and solar farms, while keeping within usual temperature limits.

CSIRO has established The Renewable Energy Integration Facility at the CSIRO Energy Centre in Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia, to investigate new grid design and operation techniques for integrating renewable energy sources into the wider electricity network.

Learn more about CSIRO's Renewable Energy Integration Facility.