EU-DREAM project aims to increase consumers’ involvement in the energy market by using AI
Nearly 80% of Europeans aren’t actively involved in the energy transition, often because they do not know how. While digital tools can facilitate active participation and support the shift to a greener future, consumers still lack user-friendly solutions. Leading energy industry and research collaborators from across Europe, including EnergyVille/VITO, are launching the EU-DREAM project this month to accelerate innovation in digital tools and enhance the adoption of digital services in the energy market.
Led by the University of Porto (Portugal) and 16 collaborators from nine countries, the EU-DREAM project (Effective Uptake of Digital Services to Repower European Consumers and Communities as Active Participants in Energy Transition and Markets) aims to transform consumer interaction with the energy market. The project seeks to simplify complex energy management processes and boost customer awareness, trust, and confidence through the introduction of an Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based assistant and a Natural Language Processing (NLP) intermediary.
Complex details into everyday language
“These innovative tools will translate complex energy market details into everyday language, making energy management accessible and understandable,” explained João Catalão, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto.
The EU-DREAM project will develop and test next-generation energy services, solutions, and products in six living labs across Europe, each focusing on different aspects of energy innovation. One such lab is the Open Thor Living Lab, where EnergyVille/VITO will identify, together with the living lab participants, what is the interest of vulnerable consumers in adopting EU-DREAM innovative tools. Equipped with rooftop building-integrated PV, solar thermal collectors, heat pumps, thermal and electrical storage, and home batteries, Open Thor exemplifies a holistic approach to sustainable energy solutions. The lab aims to empower vulnerable communities through innovative digital tools, enhancing energy literacy, and promoting economic resilience.
Empower vulnerable costumers
“The Open Thor Living Lab is pivotal in our mission to empower vulnerable consumers through innovative digital solutions,” said Luciana Marques, Senior Researcher at EnergyVille/VITO. “We aim to create tangible impacts that improve lives and contribute to a more sustainable future by developing tools helping consumers to engage in energy markets. With EU-DREAM tools, any end-consumer, who may or may not understand these complex markets rules, will be able to better manage their demand and support the energy transition while gaining extra revenues from it.”
EnergyVille/VITO is also playing a critical role in leading the work package on market design for digital tools update and flexibility services, ensuring the project’s innovations align with market needs and regulatory frameworks.
Our EU-DREAM partners
Want to know more?
Would you like to know more about EU-DREAM and EnergyVille/VITO’s role in this inspiring project? Then do not hesitate to contact our expert Luciana Marques, she will be happy to help you further.
Also, make sure to follow EU-DREAM on LinkedIn to stay on top of the very latest updates!
