Better allocation of energy consumption
We allocate the energy that is transmitted via our grid to energy companies on a daily basis. This is an important process: the more accurate the allocation, the better the balance on the grid and the fewer corrections afterwards. The allocation takes place based on consumption profiles. These no longer provide a correct portrayal of the changing demand for electricity, also due to own energy generation, the charging of electric vehicles, and the use of heat pumps. We have been working with dynamic profiles since April 2023 and a distinction between customers who feed energy back into the grid and who do not. These profiles result in a significantly better allocation of energy flows. As a result, we have to settle fewer differences with the energy companies afterwards; this volume has decreased from 300 gigawatt-hour to 30 gigawatt-hour per month.
Changes in the demand for energy are also leading to changes in the market. For instance, in 2023, energy supplier Vandebron decided to charge feed-in costs to customers with solar panels. The costs for feeding energy back into the grid are becoming higher and higher, and in this manner, the costs are being paid by customers who actually make use of this.
When the Energy Act comes into effect, we will be able to allocate energy even more accurately as we will then be allowed to make use of more information from smart meters. An estimate based on consumption profiles is then no longer necessary.
The problems in 2022 with reading the smart meters were solved completely in 2023. We thus now again satisfy the market agreements that were made.
More grip and possibilities thanks to data and digitalisation
Data-driven working and digitalisation help us in the energy transition. They make work processes more efficient and support us in the collaboration with partners and customers. We also make use of data and digital technology for congestion management and the training of new technical colleagues. With the HoloLens, for example, a form of extended reality (XR), we are taking a first step in the digitalisation of working and training. With the HoloLens, mentors can provide more flexible support to their trainees as trainees can work more independently to acquire certain skills.
Data and digitalisation also require a sound foundation and the management and control of risk (see box). In order to benefit from digitalisation in a responsible manner, we have translated views and policy into clear plans and we are working on the digital resilience and fitness of our organisation and employees, for example, by making people aware of the dangers of cybercrime. We plan to establish an AI Centre of Excellence in 2024, a central department with knowledge of AI that stimulates and monitors the use of AI, and takes action with regard to relevant laws and regulations.
Together with the other grid operators, we formulated a view in 2023 on exchanging data. This has resulted in one data counter for all grid operators that handles data requests of partners in the energy transition centrally.
Safeguarding digital security
The threat of cyberattacks has been growing worldwide already for years. Digital security is therefore a top priority at Enexis. With an integral and proactive approach, we focus on technology, employees, and processes. We protect our vital infrastructure, ICT and personal data, train employees in digital resilience, and have adequate information security processes in place. Throughout the whole organisation, teams and employees are tasked with safeguarding digital security. We are also working together intensively with the government, chain partners, and parties within the energy sector. As a result, we are informed about current threats, incidents, and vulnerabilities in systems and we can take action quickly.