Rethinking energy infrastructure: the value of
holistic locally integrated cross-vector flexibility
holistic locally integrated cross-vector flexibility
File(s)
Accepted version
Author(s)
Ademovic Tahirovic, Alma
Djapic, predrag
Ameli, Hossein
Strbac, goran
Type
Conference Paper
Abstract
The energy transition is expanding beyond electricity to address high-emission sectors such as heat and transport. While electrification is key to decarbonisation, it risks overloading infrastructure and increasing costs for end-
users. Flexibility remains a critical barrier to integrating low-carbon technologies at scale. This paper explores the role of cross-vector flexibility, the coordinated use of electricity, heat, and transport systems, in reducing infrastructure strain and supporting decarbonisation. Using the REMeDY district energy business model, applied to Southend-on-Sea, the study evaluates distribution network impacts. Results show that cross-vector flexibility delivers greater value than decentralised approaches, offering reduced reinforcement needs, enhanced system flexibility,
and lower investment costs. Stand-alone applications provide limited benefits, whereas integrated, whole-systems deployment achieves significantly higher value. The findings highlight the importance of strategic local planning and holistic energy management. Follow-up analyses further confirm the potential of cross-vector flexibility to reduce system costs and support efficient, scalable decarbonisation.
users. Flexibility remains a critical barrier to integrating low-carbon technologies at scale. This paper explores the role of cross-vector flexibility, the coordinated use of electricity, heat, and transport systems, in reducing infrastructure strain and supporting decarbonisation. Using the REMeDY district energy business model, applied to Southend-on-Sea, the study evaluates distribution network impacts. Results show that cross-vector flexibility delivers greater value than decentralised approaches, offering reduced reinforcement needs, enhanced system flexibility,
and lower investment costs. Stand-alone applications provide limited benefits, whereas integrated, whole-systems deployment achieves significantly higher value. The findings highlight the importance of strategic local planning and holistic energy management. Follow-up analyses further confirm the potential of cross-vector flexibility to reduce system costs and support efficient, scalable decarbonisation.
Date Acceptance
2025-06-25
Publisher
IEEE
Copyright Statement
Subject to copyright. This paper is embargoed until publication. Once published the author’s accepted manuscript will be made available under a CC-BY License in accordance with Imperial’s Research Publications Open Access policy (www.imperial.ac.uk/oa-policy).
License URL
Source
60th International Universities Power Engineering Conference (UPEC 2025)
Publication Status
Accepted
Start Date
2025-09-02
Finish Date
2025-09-05
Coverage Spatial
London, UK