Energy Management: Solar Panels & Smart Meters

Energy management is becoming increasingly crucial with the rise of renewable energies, especially solar panels. But how does this technology actually work, and what are the advantages and disadvantages of batteries for energy storage? Here's an exploration of the essential aspects of modern energy management.

Understanding energy flows and the importance of the dual-flow meter

Solar panels can be used to produce clean energy. However, measuring energy flows into and out of the building is crucial for optimal management. The dual-flow meter, or communicating meter, plays a central role in tracking and managing these flows.

Now compulsory in all Brussels homes before installing solar panels, they enable you to measure the energy produced by your system. This is one of the reasons why single meters run backwards in Wallonia if you don't have a double flow meter.

The problem of grid disconnection in Wallonia is due to the fact that the production of solar panels by private individuals is not managed. As a result, the grid operator is left with a surplus of energy that cannot be managed, leading to stalls. If solar panel production were better coordinated, there would probably be fewer power outages in Wallonia.

Financial incentives to install solar panels on private homes have also led to this situation, creating a backlash.

In the best-case scenario, this would mean :

• Mandatory installation of dual-flow meters.
• Enhance the entire electrical infrastructure to compensate for excess excess shock.
• Install regional batteries to store all this excess energy. It's expensive, but we think that if the energy is redistributed afterwards, it could be worth it.

An analogy would be a storm that spills a lot of water: if there's no canal or well to store all that water, it'll overflow straight away.

2. Advantages of the dual flow meter

The dual-flow meter has many advantages. It enables precise measurement of energy consumed and produced, facilitating dynamic pricing and the adjustment of consumption to energy needs and costs.

However, for optimum management, it is necessary to control which devices consume energy and when, in order to redirect energy flows efficiently.

Energy storage solutions

Energy storage is an essential component of energy management. Batteries are often considered as a solution, but they are not the only option. Storage can also be achieved via systems such as hot water tanks, which store energy in the form of heat.

Battery capacity

Battery capacity must be determined according to the consumption profile of each household.

A precise study is needed to adapt the battery size to the specific needs of users, thus optimizing efficiency and profitability.

Intelligent energy management

Energy management isn't just about production and storage. Intelligent systems to monitor and control consumption in real time are crucial.

Advanced modules enable you to control loads, promote self-consumption and optimize the use of the energy produced.

Dynamic pricing and the future of energy management

Dynamic pricing, scheduled for 2026, will bring both challenges and opportunities. It will make it possible to benefit from reduced costs during periods of low energy demand.e. Owners of photovoltaic panels will be able to optimize their energy consumption and storage to take advantage of these tariff variations.

Towards a shared energy community

The future of energy management could also involve energy community systems, where the energy produced is shared between several users. Projects of this type already exist, promoting more equitable and efficient use of energy resources.

See our article on : Energy community in saint gilles

The transition requires a thorough understanding of the technologies available, and adaptation to the specific needs of each user.

Smart meters, varied storage solutions and dynamic pricing are all key to optimizing energy consumption and reducing costs in both urban and rural landscapes!

---