Growing peak electricity demand is pushing New Zealand’s network infrastructure towards its capacity limits. Six of the highest demand peaks occurred in 2023 and peak demand is predicted to continue growing due to the increasing electrification of New Zealand homes.
The Lincoln Flex Trial was a collaboration between energy retailer Ecotricity and electricity distributor Orion, aiming to reduce peak network load using energy stored in Ecotricity’s customer battery systems. Ecotricity’s software provider, Robotron New Zealand, developed a bespoke software solution that enabled Orion access to the battery group to support the local network 37 different times last winter.
Robotron NZ, a specialist for IT solutions in the energy market, enabled the smart control of Ecotricity’s fleet of connected batteries using its IoTHub solution.
The Robotron system highlights include:
- Instant battery control – Enabling rapid response to peak load events and ensuring network support.
- Advance scheduling – Ensuring sufficient energy reserves ahead of predicted peak demand.
- Flexible aggregation of assets – Allowing control all batteries as one or as individual devices.
- Full network operator integration – Granting control to the operator from their internal systems.
- Real-time monitoring – Providing all stakeholders with reliable information at the right time.
The trial proves that:
- Flexibility services can be effective - A great tool to address infrastructure limitations.
- Collaborative efforts yield results – Showcasing the power of partnerships between network operators, energy retailers, and technology providers.
- Sustainable energy solutions are viable – Highlighting the role of innovative technology in supporting the transition to a more sustainable energy future.
“Robotron delivered a cost-effective and timely solution, integrating with our existing VPP platform, allowing this innovative trial to demonstrate the value of flexibility to New Zealand” – Jason Christini-Crawford, Ecotricity Smart Grid Programme Manager.
"The Lincoln Flex Trial highlights the value of our partnering with Ecotricity. Together, we've shown that innovative solutions can effectively address peak demand challenges. This trial sets a promising precedent for the future of sustainable energy management using Robotron’s innovative software solutions." – Alexander Born, CEO of Robotron NZ.
