Economic benefits of Renewable energy communities in smart districts: A comparative analysis of incentive schemes for NZEBs

Abstract

The Italian regulation on Renewable Energy Communities actively promotes the electrification of end uses by rewarding participants with incentives for each kWh of electricity shared. Renewable Energy Communities offer economic, environmental and social benefits which reach their maximum potential when the installed renewable electric capacity is aligned with the buildings' consumption patterns. This study evaluates the economic advantages of different user combinations and the ideal photovoltaic capacity when applying Renewable Energy Communities’ incentives. This is done comparing the outputs of a techno-economic assessment for two buildings equipped with geothermal heat pumps for heating and cooling supply, considering a range of photovoltaic capacity installed and intended uses. Three incentive schemes are examined: 1. Renewable Energy Community participation with all the electrical consumption accounted for “shared energy”; 2. Traditional feed-in tariff and Electric Vehicles recharge service sales for commercial buildings; 3. Renewable Energy Community participation where Electric Vehicles’ charger consumption is not considered part of “shared energy” but as a remunerative service for commercial buildings. The findings reveal that different intended uses result in higher self-consumption and increased economic benefits. Additionally, the remuneration from recharging stations consistently outperforms the incentives provided by Renewable Energy Communities.