The evolution of the electrical power sector due to the advances in digitalization, decarbonization and decentralization has led to the increase in challenges within the current distribution network. Therefore, there is an increased need to analyze the impact of the smart grid and its implemented solutions in order to address these challenges at the earliest stage, i.e., during the pilot phase and before large-scale deployment and mass adoption. Therefore, this paper presents the scalability and replicability analysis conducted within the European project InteGrid. Within the project, innovative solutions are proposed and tested in real demonstration sites (Portugal, Slovenia, and Sweden) to enable the DSO as a market facilitator and to assess the impact of the scalability and replicability of these solutions when integrated into the network. The analysis presents a total of three clusters where the impact of several integrated smart tools is analyzed alongside future large scale scenarios. These large scale scenarios envision significant penetration of distributed energy resources, increased network dimensions, large pools of flexibility, and prosumers. The replicability is analyzed through different types of networks, locations (country-wise), or time (daily). In addition, a simple replication path based on a step by step approach is proposed as a guideline to replicate the smart functions associated with each of the clusters.

The integration of multimegawatt fast chargers into local distribution grids is becoming increasingly relevant due to recent initiatives to push for higher charging power, especially for applications like heavy-duty vehicles. However, the high-power capacity of these chargers, especially when multiple units operate simultaneously at specific locations, raises several important considerations for the optimal design and integration of multimegawatt fast chargers. These include, for example, power electronics architectures and dedicated designs, grid stability, and the incorporation of renewable energy systems. Thus, this paper provides a comprehensive analysis of the key factors influencing the optimal integration of these ultra-high-power chargers, looking into impacts on medium-voltage (MV) networks, the design considerations for medium-voltage power electronics in DC chargers, and the potential of renewable energy systems to offset grid demand. Additionally, this paper explores the potential high-level communication requirements necessary for efficient and reliable charger operation, including a proposal for a robust communication interface layer stack. This investigation aims to provide a holistic understanding of the challenges and opportunities associated with integrating multimegawatt fast chargers into existing power systems, offering insights into the enhancement of both performance and sustainability.

By integrating renewables in the era of digitalization, power infrastructure is becoming more connected to ensure a secure, efficient, and decarbonized future system. However, this increased connectivity also makes infrastructure more vulnerable. Over the past decade, geopolitical tensions and concerns about energy security have influenced power systems, prompting energy professionals to explore various solutions for maintaining a reliable and resilient future. Researchers and experts from the International Smart Grid Network (ISGAN), International Council on Large Electric Systems (CIGRE), as well as system operators and communities, are exploring various solutions that focus on flexibility options, resilience, and how these two aspects can support each other. In particular, they continue to work on energy system stakeholders’ interaction to identify a key pathway to a clean, reliable, and secure energy future. In ISGAN, the experience from flexibility definition and characterization started in 2019, and continued with flexibility for resilience in integrated systems activity supported by the International Energy Agency in 2022; recent outcomes from an ISGAN workshop held in 2023 on the topic of “Flexibility for Resilience and Power System Stakeholder Interaction” are summarized and discussed here. This article presents the results and best practices derived from collaboration and the exchange of experiences between countries. It highlights the potential, role, and actions being taken by various stakeholders, including academia, society, policymakers, regulators, urban planners, system operators, retailers, and consumers, in addressing the urgent need for power system resilience and the critical role of flexibility.