The SMARTGYsum final and closing event will be held in Badajoz from March 19 to 20, 2026. The event will include sessions where main results will be exposed to general audience and special sessions about specific related topic.

Researchers involved in the European Horizon project SMARTGYsum have published new findings demonstrating how residential energy systems can be optimized to operate as efficient and cost-effective Virtual Power Plants (VPPs). The study, published in the journal Energies, presents a hybrid optimization framework that combines artificial intelligence techniques with advanced control methods to significantly reduce electricity costs while improving computational performance, offering a scalable solution for future energy markets. The study, titled “Iterative Genetic Algorithm to Improve Optimization of a Residential Virtual Power Plant”, is authored by A.A. Alvi, L. Martínez-Caballero, E. Romero-Cadaval, E. González-Romera, and M. Malinowski. DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/en18205377 A breakthrough in residential energy optimization The research introduces a two-stage optimization framework that enhances how residential VPPs coordinate electric vehicle (EV) charging, energy storage systems (ESS), and household consumption to minimize costs and support grid flexibility. In the first stage, a Genetic Algorithm (GA) explores multiple operational scenarios, capturing the stochastic nature of energy demand and supply. In the second stage, the solution is refined using a gradient-based method—MATLAB’s Fmincon solver—achieving both precision and computational efficiency. Real-world validation and measurable impact To ensure practical relevance, the team conducted a real-case study incorporating detailed system models of power electronic converters and control systems. Across multiple scenarios, the optimized VPP achieved: Up to 50.2% reduction in electricity costs. More than 95% decrease in simulation time, identifying the best solution in just 65 iterations. Full compliance with operational constraints, demonstrating the robustness of the hybrid optimization method. Implications for the energy transition As Europe accelerates the integration of distributed energy resources, residential VPPs are becoming strategic tools for demand-side flexibility. This research highlights how combining artificial intelligence techniques with advanced optimization can unlock new value streams for households, energy communities, and grid operators. According to the SMARTGYsum team, the proposed framework positions residential VPPs as viable contributors to a smarter, more resilient energy system—helping consumers reduce costs while supporting broader decarbonization goals. About SMARTGYsum SMARTGYsum is a Horizon Europe research and innovation project focused on developing advanced modelling, control, and market solutions to enhance flexibility in electrical networks. The project brings together universities, research centers, and industry partners across Europe to accelerate the deployment of next-generation smart energy systems.