Grid congestion is becoming a critical issue in the energy landscape, especially as we transition to renewable and community-based energy systems. It occurs when the demand for electricity at specific times or locations exceeds the grid’s capacity to deliver it efficiently, causing potential bottlenecks and stability issues. As renewable energy sources add variability to the grid, solutions like energy storage, demand management, and smarter technology are increasingly essential to balance supply and demand.
Grid congestion: reshaping future energy systems
Date: Thursday, December 19th, 12:00–14:00 (warm lunch included).
Location: SustainaLab, Matrix ONE, Amsterdam Science Park 301, 1098 XH Amsterdam.
In this event, we’ll explore pressing questions concerning grid congestion:
– What will the future energy system look like?
– How can we prevent grid congestion from becoming a barrier to sustainable development?
– What role can AI play in ensuring stability and efficiency in our power grids?
– What can energy communities and innovative projects teach us about building a resilient, local energy supply for new initiatives like Lab Q at Amsterdam Science Park?
Programme:
Tessa Steenkamp – Founder & Experience Designer, Bits of Space
Currently on display at SustainaLab, Tessa Steenkamp’s art project, Glimpses of Green Energy (Inkijkjes in de Energietransitie), offers a unique view into the energy challenges facing Amsterdam Noord residents. Featured recently at Dutch Design Week, her work makes tangible what is already possible in the energy transition, the systems behind it and the pros and cons of those systems. Tessa will share insights into how communities can reduce grid congestion through local initiatives, such as Republica.
Rowan Boeters – Portfolio Manager, Energy Transition & Grid Congestion, University of Amsterdam
Rowan Boeters will discuss the challenges of powering Lab Q, a new quantum research facility at Amsterdam Science Park. Rowan’s work focuses on optimizing energy use across existing facilities without increasing contracted power levels, using strategies like detailed mapping, energy savings, and peak shifting. His insights are crucial for understanding how smarter energy management can alleviate congestion without compromising research and innovation needs.
Jochen Cremer – Co-Director, TU Delft AI for Energy Grids Lab (ICAI)
Jochen Cremer will present ongoing research at the ICAI Energy Grids Lab and the ROBUST program, where AI is helping address grid congestion and stability issues. Jochen will highlight how adaptive energy management solutions powered by AI can support communities, like those at Amsterdam Science Park, in balancing energy demand with grid capacity. He’ll also address the broader technical and social challenges of creating an AI-assisted energy ecosystem.
Registration:
Spots for this event are full!
Picture: Michiel Landeweerd