A smart integrated network for an offshore island

This article examines the potential to create an energy independent smart network for an island community utilizing ocean and wind energy. The analysis involves the simulation of an extensive electrification of the heat and transport sectors on the island and the use of renewable energy to maximize the fuel and emission savings. This study involves a full renewable resource assessment for both wind and ocean devices. It also includes the design of a smart-network control algorithm to optimize the timing of electric vehicle charging and heat pump usage to exploit available renewable energy and minimize cost. Results indicate a dramatic reduction in total energy consumption through the electrification of the heat and transport sectors. For the case study system it is recommended that efficiency measures are adopted prior to the deployment of more advanced demand technologies and that air-source heat pumps should be prioritized over electric vehicle deployment due to the nature of energy demand on the island and the capital costs involved.