Med-EcoSuRe proposed a challenge, in the framework of the Challenge-based module of the ERASMUS MUNDUS Master DENSYS (Decentralised smart ENergy SYStems) related to the management of energy in decentralized energy systems and including the design of energy networks, demand-side management and optimization.

The challenge proposed was selected, following an evaluation process, to be carried out by students from the University of Lorraine, France within the master programme.

The challenge proposed, in the framework of Med-EcoSuRe, combines:

1. Numerical modeling of a Smart Micro-grid Platform installed at the National Engineering School, as a pilot initiative in the framework of Med-EcoSuRe. The model will allow to perform analysis investigating new renewable energy technologies and new concepts such as energy management systems, block chain technology and Virtual Power Plants (VPP).A technical and economic study will be carried out to assess the energy performance and the economic feasibility of the Micro-Grid solutions in a Tunisian context while adopting different scenarios (weather conditions, demand profiles, configurations…)

Following the modeling of the smart micro-grid platform, different configurations will be evaluated using CSP (Concentrated Solar Power), wind, batteries, and diesel generators technologies. The integration of hybrid systems can be assessed as well (example: combination of Photovoltaics and wind).

Furthermore, The environmental and economic impacts of the solutions will be assessed. Two main parameters are selected for optimization: cost of 1 kWh produced and CO2 emission per kWh produced.

2. Survey, based on literature review and an interview process, to study the energy trading applications and concepts in Smart Micro Grids in the Mediterranean region (Tunisia, Italy, Spain, Palestine). The following topics will be addressed:

• Enabling technologies: renewable energies, energy storage, electrical vehicles, communication systems.
• Energy trading mechanisms
• Energy trading markets in the Mediterranean
• Factors that influence the market dynamics.
• Design and management of energy markets.

A group of five students are selected to carry out the proposed challenge, starting in February 2021, and will be supervised by the coordination team of Med-EcoSuRe from MEDREC (Mediterranean Renewable Energy Centre), Experts from Lightency and Gamco Energy (Suppliers of the Smart Micro Grid Platform installed at ENIT), and Professors from ENIT (National Engineering School of Tunis), University of Lorraine, and ESADE (Barcelona Business school).