The lead project “cells4.energy” is testing innovative solutions for renewable energy in real-world laboratories. Entire regions should be supplied sustainably with the help of energy cells.

Achieving the ambitious goals — 100% renewable electricity by 2030 and 100% renewable overall energy— will require a significant acceleration in the expansion of renewable energies and the development of innovative technologies. This is where the lead project cells4.energy comes into play, paving the way for sustainable energy systems with the help of real-world laboratories.

Energy cells as an innovative way to energy transition

The focus is on the development and testing of a scalable energy cell concept. So-called “energy cells” are small, flexible energy networks within an energy system. They cover the entire value chain and can therefore generate, save, distribute, and consume local energy. Depending on the regional suitability, these cells can be supplied from various energy sources, such as solar energy, wind power, or biomass. 

Energy cells can be used to make the energy supply more decentralized and resilient. Each cell functions independently; however, it can also be connected to other cells in order to form a larger, integrated energy system. This reduces dependence on central energy sources and creates a flexible and robust energy system that can respond better to local needs and fluctuations.

Practical and transferable

Real-world conditions are simulated in six different regions of Austria to test the practicability and transferability of these models. The focus is particularly on the integration of sector coupling, such as low-temperature district heating and waste heat utilization, as well as the creation of system flexibility. The aim is to develop long-term, scalable solutions that are viable from a technical, regulatory, and social perspective.

Test in the real-world laboratory

As part of the project, a real-world laboratory will be set up in Burgenland, where several energy cells will be developed and tested. This includes innovative local heating networks, hybrid power plants with hydrogen solutions, and cross-sector control concepts for energy cells. A particular focus is on digitalization and the integration of end customers into energy management.

Role of Salzburg Research

Salzburg Research is leading the activities for the development of the digital infrastructure and the virtual power plant. The goal is to develop market-ready and standardized concepts for energy cells that can be used everywhere in the future — both nationally and internationally.

“cells4.energy – Regional energy cells as multi-energy real-world laboratories for a rapid system transition” is funded by the Ministry of Climate Protection and the FFG.