Integration and interaction of energy flexible manufacturing systems within a smart grid

The need for clean, safe and inexpensive energy provision is driving many countries in the transition towards renewable energies. Due to the characteristics of solar and wind power, a volatile energy provision and therefore an increasing instability of the grid can be observed. Hence, a fast and efficient communication and interaction of energy providers and energy consumers within the grid is necessary. Manufacturing companies can enable the efficient integration of renewable energies to the grid and can additionally gain a competitive advantage through the concept of energy-flexibility. This paper presents findings of the future interaction of factories and an approach for integrating manufacturing systems into a smart grid environment.