The overall objective of the RING research project is to assess the knowledge on the topic of anergy networks based on available scientific work and existing projects in Europe, and to expand this knowledge in a targeted manner with the help of detailed analyses of an implemented case study

A broad systematic analysis of a matrix of suitable system configurations (various heat sources, storage solutions, network design, etc.) and dimensions will be carried out for defined quarter archetypes and the considered case study. The energetic, ecological and economic performance is evaluated for different system configurations via defined KPIs by means of an energy system modelling on hourly basis. The results serve as a basis for the further work in the project and as an aid for the conceptual design and planning of future anergy network projects. The case study under consideration is the Conrad Caserne of the Austrian Armed Forces in Innsbruck, which is being transformed into a sustainable quarter based on an anergy network. For this system, hybrid (thermal and electrical) simulation models with a high spatial and temporal resolution are developed, which also take the control of the system into account in detail and allow an analysis of the dynamic operation. The model generation is semiautomated for the actually implemented system of the case study and, alternatively, for a promising second system derived from the preliminary work. The operating data of the case study under consideration will be collected by measurement and stored in an IoT platform that will be established. The data will be used to evaluate the energy and environmental efficiency of the system, to validate the developed simulation models, and to develop modular and scalable machine learning-based services. The latter will be used to detect and diagnose operational faults and predict energy production from renewable sources and heating, cooling and electricity loads, and will be used to optimize system control. Using a mathematical optimization model to be developed, different modes of operation will be evaluated, with different weightings between costs, self-sufficiency levels and emissions. From the results, rules and strategies are derived to maximize the efficiency of the hybrid energy system with respect to different objective functions. In addition, the optimization models provide information about resilience and behaviour in blackout scenarios. The project results will be compiled, processed in a structured way and will be used to create a criteria catalogue with recommendations for action for the conceptual design of energy systems based on anergy networks.