The EMPOWER project has been successfully completed, and the final evaluation meeting of the project took place on April 19th, 2023.
EMPOWER was a national effort funded by the Research and Innovation Foundation to evolve the Cyprus power system. T.P. Aeolian Dynamics was a key partner in the project, effectively collaborating with the KIOS Research and Innovation Center of Excellence at the University of Cyprus (the coordinator). Additionally, several other energy stakeholders, including the Electricity Authority of Cyprus, the Transmission System Operator of Cyprus, the Cyprus Energy Regulatory Authority, the Ministry of Energy, Commerce and Industry, the Cyprus Energy Agency, the Cyprus Employers and Industrialists Federation, Deloitte, and Phoebe Research and Innovation, were involved in the project.
Significant achievements have been made within EMPOWER towards the green and digital transition of the Cyprus power system. One notable accomplishment is deploying an advanced measuring infrastructure at various power substations throughout Cyprus. The availability of fast and real-time measurements facilitated the development of innovative monitoring and control solutions. These solutions have been integrated into a cloud-based platform that transmission and distribution system operators use to effectively manage the operation of the Cyprus power grid, particularly during abnormal operating conditions.
Furthermore, two energy storage pilots have been implemented as part of the project. First, a holistic control and energy management framework was developed and integrated into cloud-based software, which was then applied in two demonstration sites. The first pilot focuses on the producer level, where a battery storage system has been installed at the Aeolian Dynamics Wind Farm. This use case has demonstrated in actual operation environment that energy storage can significantly increase the profitability and controllability of renewable energy sources. The second pilot revolves around an active distribution grid concept, where a flywheel-battery storage system has been effectively managed to provide local ancillary services and reduce the electricity cost of the University of Cyprus campus.
Overall, the EMPOWER project has produced significant outcomes to facilitate the modernization of the Cyprus power system. The deployment of advanced measuring infrastructure, intelligent monitoring and control solutions for smart grids, and innovative energy storage pilots have all contributed to the efficient management and utilization of renewable energy sources in Cyprus.
Aeolian Dynamics is grateful to KIOS for the invitation to participate in such an excellent research program and for their unwavering support throughout the program. Working alongside the Cyprus energy sector’s distinguished scientific staff who participated in the Empower program has been a privilege.
We thank all the Empower Partners for our excellent collaboration.
