Digitalization, Flexibility, and Efficiency: New Challenges and Opportunities for Local Distribution System Operators
The European and Czech energy sectors are undergoing a fundamental transformation. Across all levels - from generation and distribution to consumption - decentralized energy sources are multiplying, while the focus on flexibility management and efficient energy use is intensifying.
This evolution creates new opportunities but also introduces completely new operational and data challenges.
While large transmission and distribution system operators rely on established control systems, smaller Local Distribution System operators (LDS) are often searching for ways to handle growing complexity and regulatory requirements without massive investments.
This is where a modern Energy Management Operatin& Optimisation System (EMOS) like FLOWBOX EMOS can make a real difference - a platform that grows and evolves with you.
What is FLOWBOX EMOS and Why It Matters for LDS
FLOWBOX EMOS is a comprehensive software platform for continuous measurement, monitoring, analysis, and control of energy flows and technical media.
Unlike traditional systems focused solely on data collection, EMOS works proactively with data - turning it into actionable insights, predictions, and automated control algorithms.
For LDS operators, this means the ability to:
- Integrate various data sources (generation and consumption meters, virtual meters, or existing SCADA and MaR systems for regulatory reporting).
- Gain a unified real-time view of the network through intuitive dashboards and visualizations.
- Predict consumption and production peaks.
- Automatically generate and submit daily or weekly reports to OTE (without manual user input).
- Ensure EDC reporting (for LDS involved in community energy projects) and data export for cost allocation.
Importantly, FLOWBOX EMOS is hardware-agnostic - it works seamlessly with meters and devices from different manufacturers and generations. This is a key advantage for LDS operators managing heterogeneous infrastructures developed over time.
Key Challenges for LDS and How EMOS Helps Solve Them
1. The Rapid Growth of Decentralized Energy Sources
Photovoltaic plants, battery storage systems, CHP units, and microturbines - all are increasingly connected directly to local networks. LDS operators must therefore manage bi-directional energy flows that change dynamically over time.
With EMOS, operators can:
- Monitor energy flows in real time
- Detect deviations from expected performance
- Predict overloads or potential network instability
This allows LDS to respond proactively - for instance, by adjusting local generation or activating flexible consumption.
2. Peak Load Management and Capacity Optimization
As the number of connected sources and consumers grows, so does the risk of overloading specific network branches. This often leads to higher operational costs or the need for costly infrastructure upgrades.
EMOS provides predictive load management.
Using historical data, weather forecasts, production schedules, and real-time consumption, it can:
- Forecast load profiles
- Alert operators to approaching peaks
- Actively shift or reduce consumption (e.g., by controlling appliances, batteries, or cooling systems)
Such flexibility management enables LDS to optimize capacity utilization without investing in new grid infrastructure.
3. Voltage Quality, Losses, and Dispatcher Efficiency
EMOS offers detailed insight into network operating parameters - including voltage, current, power factor, and losses.
All data are visualized through clear, customizable dashboards tailored to different user roles (dispatcher, technician, manager).
This helps LDS:
- Quickly identify anomalies (e.g., overloads, losses, or measurement inconsistencies)
- Automate regulatory and management reports
- Improve dispatcher efficiency through unified data and better visibility
4. Digitalization and Process Automation
Many LDS still rely on fragmented systems, spreadsheets, and manual processes. EMOS enables full digitalization of energy management - from measurement to decision-making.
The platform can:
- Automatically transfer metering data to the distribution operator
- Generate daily or monthly reports in line with regulatory requirements
- Integrate seamlessly via API with ERP, SCADA, DMS, or IoT systems
This digital transformation simplifies daily operations and empowers LDS to focus on strategic network management rather than manual data handling.
Real Benefits for LDS Operators
Experience from EMOS implementations across the energy sector shows that operators achieve:
- Fully automated reporting and intelligent handling of missing or duplicate data
- Improved grid stability and predictability
- Greater dispatcher efficiency thanks to unified data access
- Faster incident response and better control over power quality
These benefits are increasingly important in the context of market liberalization, where LDS will play a much more active role.