Management energy systems for smart islands (MESSI). The case study of Ponza island

This paper presents the key outcomes of the Management Energy Systems for Smart Islands (MESSI) project, aimed at supporting the European Commission's goal of climate neutrality by 2050 through the development of advanced, AI-driven energy systems for islanded areas and future microgrids. Focusing on Ponza Island, Italy, MESSI addresses the integration of distributed energy resources (DERs), demand-side management (DSM), and electric vehicle (EV) charging to enhance energy efficiency, flexibility, and resilience. Key interventions for Ponza's electric power infrastructure include the development of the medium voltage network to improve reliability and reduce losses, integration of renewable energy sources, installation of a centralized Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) for grid services like spinning reserve and synthetic inertia, and the introduction of a desalination plant as a controllable load for balancing. The project also incorporates thermal regeneration using Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC) units, green mobility services with charging infrastructure, and cold ironing at the port to reduce ship emissions. The smartization of Medium Voltage (MV) substations and the development of a digital twin are central to monitoring and control. The project leverages Artificial Intelligence (AI) based methodologies within the Energy Management System and Battery Management System frameworks for predictive analysis, real-time optimization, distributed coordination of assets, and ancillary services. By detailing these technical interventions and management strategies, MESSI demonstrates a comprehensive approach to addressing the operational challenges of island energy systems and advancing the transition towards a clean, efficient, and secure energy future.