Case study eTwin.BY – Digital energy twin for Bavaria
To achieve Bavaria’s climate targets, local authorities needed more efficient tools for planning complex energy systems. Together with its partners, fortiss developed a digital twin that simplifies energy planning through simulation, optimisation and integrated data models. The result: a flexible, scalable, data-driven solution for faster, more cost-effective and cross-sector energy planning at the municipal level.
The eTwin.BY project was funded by the Bavarian Ministry of Economic Affairs, Regional Development and Energy, led by fortiss and carried out in collaboration with Eniano GmbH and HEWA GmbH.
Solution
fortiss developed a digital twin as a data-driven, virtual representation of municipal energy systems in Bavaria. The platform harmonises distributed datasets and integrates modern modelling and simulation tools to support geothermal and solar potential analyses, grid planning and decarbonisation strategies. It is transferable to various spatial levels and energy sectors. In close collaboration with partners, the system was piloted and validated in selected regions of Bavaria.
Result
- Creation of a digital twin based on harmonised real-time data
- Accelerated planning processes whilst reducing manual effort
- Greater accuracy in the simulation and optimisation of municipal energy systems
- Support for use cases such as district heating network planning, sector coupling and building renovation
- Development of an open, transferable toolkit for local authorities across Bavaria
- Successful piloting with demonstrable practical benefits
- Improved decision-making basis for climate-friendly energy planning
Outcome
Digital twins enable significantly faster, more precise and better-integrated municipal energy planning, thereby improving the basis for decision-making regarding climate protection measures in Bavaria. The project demonstrates how the combination of data-driven technology and energy expertise simplifies complex planning processes and facilitates tangible progress towards decarbonisation.
Project partner
