Bringing virtual power into practice

The idea behind virtual power plants (VPPs) is to use excess energy supply from infrastructure companies to help with electricity grid stability and provide a source of revenue. While VPPs are nascent, there is growing interest from telecoms operators and their vendor suppliers given the potential win–win in terms of sustainability and business.

GSMA Intelligence recently published a report on virtual power plants for MWC. This explored the rationale and potential revenue models available. However, there will be much more to explore over time, reflecting the many moving parts. To shine a light on some of these topics, GSMA Intelligence released a first Insight Spotlight on VPPs, outlining the potential cost savings and revenue uplift (from the resale of excess power). This second Spotlight considers the implementation models for mobile operators looking to employ VPPs across their network footprints.