FlexTalk

The EEA is leading FlexTalk in partnership with the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA) and industry. Reports from the initial trial are out now.

Our vision: To maximise participation in flexibility services through the adoption of a common communication protocol, that is accepted by the New Zealand electricity supply industry, enabling parties seeking or providing flexibility services to easily procure, dispatch, and monitor such services.

Read our final project report outlining our exploration of OpenADR®, and key recommendations for industry on its fit for the New Zealand context. A separate report, providing technical insights on the programs tested and the technical approaches taken to implement OpenADR®, is also available below.

About FlexTalk

Aotearoa New Zealand has committed to achieving net zero emissions by 2050 and an aspirational goal of reaching 100 percent renewable electricity generation by 2030.

Most new renewable generation will be intermittent in nature, coming from solar and wind sources, which will create challenges for the people operating our electricity system and managing intermittent supply against community demand.

The increasing uptake of electric vehicles, batteries and smart devices in the home is an opportunity for us to achieve greater flexibility in how demand is managed.

Energy system flexibility can help to facilitate the introduction of more intermittent renewable electricity generation and provide consumers with an opportunity to play an increasing role in the operation of the electricity network.

If left uncontrolled, increased electrification will require significant investment in network infrastructure and ultimately cost the consumer more via their electricity bill.

Taking the first step

The FlexTalk project has explored how the adoption of a common communication protocol, in this case OpenADR®, could better enable customer flexibility to be utilised by testing the interoperability of a two-way common communication protocol between an electricity distribution company and flexibility supplier.

Our trial tested the feasibility of a common communications protocol and developed the procedures needed for the active management of electric vehicle charging in near real time. Read about the project below and watch our webinars.

FlexTalk Webinars

Reports