Towards Smart and Flexible Distribution Grids: Enhancing Hosting Capacity and Energy Sharing in Decentralized Energy Systems

Dear Colleagues,

The ongoing energy transition is reshaping the operation and planning of electricity distribution networks. The massive integration of Renewable Energy Sources (RESs), the rapid expansion of Electric Vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure, and the emergence of collective energy sharing configurations, such as Renewable Energy Communities (RECs), are leading to a fundamental shift in the traditional production-consumption paradigm. These trends are introducing new operational challenges in distribution networks, including potential congestion, increased variability, and bidirectional power flows.

This Special Issue aims to explore the evolving role of distribution networks in supporting decentralized, renewable energy production and consumption. Particular emphasis is placed on the concept of hosting capacity, a critical metric in assessing the ability of existing networks to accommodate new RES and EV loads without compromising reliability or power quality.

Contributions are invited that address modelling, control, planning, and real-world implementation of solutions enabling the smart and flexible management of distribution networks. Topics of interest include, but are not limited to:

• Energy management systems for microgrids, renewable energy communities, and EV charging hubs;
• Coordination of EV charging with Vehicle-to-X techniques;
• Flexibility and demand-side optimization strategies;
• Grid-supportive operation of distributed energy resources;
• Innovative approaches to assess and enhance hosting capacity in increasingly complex distribution networks.

Dr. Stefano Bracco
Prof. Dr. Federico Delfino
Dr. Matteo Fresia
Guest Editors

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