Destination Renewable Energy (DRE): pioneering the future of clean energy with HYREF

The Destination Earth’s (DestinE) Destination Renewable Energy (DRE) use case is addressing the global challenge of transitioning to clean energy, by enhancing the renewable energy efficiency towards maximising its use in the energy mix. At the heart of this project is the Hybrid Renewable Energy Forecasting System (HYREF), which digitises and optimises the forecasting of solar and wind energy production, which are pivotal in the transition to Green Energy but are inherently dependent on weather and climate conditions.  The HYREF system leverages advanced climate services, satellite data, weather and solar modelling, to provide precise energy forecasts.

How does it work?

HYREF is designed as a hybrid system that integrates real-world renewable energy sources with their digital twins. This approach creates a comprehensive virtual system, continuously evolving through data integration and stakeholder engagement. The system will use data from the Weather-induced Extremes Digital Twin (DT), Global Ocean Physics Analysis and Forecast, and CAMS aerosol data as well as local, user oriented data, allowing HYREF to provide detailed models of wind and solar production, enhanced by real-time communication interfaces with production sites. One of the major innovations of HYREF is its ability to assimilate user-specific data. In this use case this is achieved through the continued co-design with our end users. For example, the solar part of the use case is a demonstration for Kinigos site (Greece), one of the biggest parks of the QUEST ENERGY partner of our consortium.

DestinE’s robust infrastructure and cutting-edge services significantly bolster the DRE use case. The platform provides a powerful framework for integrating big Earth observation data and advanced artificial intelligence technologies. This integration facilitates timely and accurate energy forecasting, which is crucial for achieving the renewable energy targets set by the United Nations Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Paris Agreement.

What will DRE offer?

The insights provided by HYREF are invaluable for policymakers and decision-makers in the energy sector. By offering hybrid forecasts of solar and wind potential at various scales, from single parks to national and continental levels, HYREF empowers stakeholders to make informed decisions about energy trade strategies, security measures, and resource allocation. The system’s ability to simulate ‘what-if’ scenarios further aids in planning and mitigating the risks associated with climate-related shocks, such as extreme dust storms and natural disasters. HYREF is designed with user interaction in mind, offering several features that enhance its usability and impact:

• Interactive maps and data visualisation: Users will have access to interactive maps that display real-time forecasts of solar and wind energy potential. These visualisations help users understand spatial and temporal variations in energy availability.
• Scenario modelling: The system allows users to explore different ‘what-if’ scenarios, enabling energy producers to make informed decisions about energy storage, utilisation, and market participation. For example, users can simulate the impact of extreme weather events on energy production and plan accordingly.
• Customised forecasts: By integrating user-specific data, HYREF provides tailored forecasts that account for unique operational conditions at different energy production sites. This includes factors like local climate variations and specific equipment performance characteristics.

The support from the DestinE platform development team has been instrumental in developing HYREF within the framework of DestinE. This collaboration has enabled significant progress and the onboarding process has demonstrated great potential for further innovation. This underscores the DestinE platform’s capability to support advanced software development and seamless integration. The scalability and flexibility of HYREF are key strengths that will enable it to evolve into a fully operational service. By leveraging the extensive data resources and digital twin products provided by DestinE, HYREF can cater to a wide range of users, from small-scale private owners to large-scale energy producers.

Beyond the use case

The long-term vision for the DRE project is to secure Europe’s energy supply using renewable resources while maintaining a strong focus on climate and environmental objectives. The collaboration between researchers, industry and DestinE exemplifies a new era of integrated efforts to develop effective solutions for the renewable energy sector. This paradigm shift promises not only to benefit Europe but also to set a benchmark for global initiatives in clean energy transition.

By demonstrating the tangible benefits of advanced energy forecasting and data integration for renewable energy development, the Destination Renewable Energy (DRE) use case aims to create a ripple effect, encouraging countries globally to embrace digital transformation and sustainable energy practices. By harnessing advanced analytics, comprehensive data integration, and intuitive visualisation tools, the HYREF system will empower policymakers, energy producers, and stakeholders to navigate the complex challenges of the renewable energy transition while advancing towards sustainable, resilient futures. As regions embrace digital transformation, the DRE project will be a pioneer of new collaborative approaches for renewable energy development, paving the way for smarter, cleaner and more inclusive energy solutions globally. Want to learn more? You can watch the recording of the DRE Roadshow Webinar now!