The Project

Now that a review of current smart technologies has been achieved and the West Whins case study has been explained, this section aims to explain the key stages of the project.  

The first step is to create a representative model of West Whins. PyLESA has been used as a modelling tool, particularly due to its open-source characteristic and its ability to model and analyse local energy systems with a heat pump and thermal storage. The creation and validation of the West Whins model are covered in the first section. 

This model is then used in achieving two deliverables:  

• Designing and demonstrating applicable smart controls. 

• Identifying future system designs. 

A proposed framework for smart controls using both PyLESA and Emoncms is described in the second section. It has been designed and tested using the West Whins case study but can be extended to similar mini-district energy systems. 

Finally, future system designs including the integration of an electrical storage system and PV panels have been detailed within the third section. These alternate systems have been studied using the West Whins  PyLESA model while making the desired alterations. The results from this analysis can then be used to make informed decisions for a broad scope of mini smart grid systems, such as the proposed development of North Whins apartments. 

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