Swiss Energy Communities Changed the Way the World Views Solar: The Story of AEM and Hive Power

Hive Power supports Azienda Elettrica di Massagno (AEM) with all their self-consumption and energy community customers, as well as drain-spotting and automatic optimisation of stationary batteries and heat pumps. The Lugaggia Innovation Community (LIC) exemplifies their collaboration to enhance energy sustainability and reduce costs in Switzerland. Switzerland, having the legislation and capability for energy communities much earlier than other countries, serves as a model for the world. Among these pioneering initiatives, the Lugaggia project stands out, having won the prestigious Watt d'Or Award, which highlights Hive Power's exceptional quality and innovation in the field.

The LIC is an experimental energy self-consumption project that connects the Lugaggia kindergarten with 18 nearby homes and 5 photovoltaic plants, aiming to maximise the neighbourhood’s energy independence.

Launched in March 2019, the project features a dynamic consortium that includes SUPSI’s Energy Systems Sector, the Dalle Molle Institute for Artificial Intelligence Studies, and Swiss tech firms Optimatik and Landis+Gyr, all in collaboration with the Municipality of Capriasca. The project also enjoys support from the Federal Office of Energy, the Cantonal Renewable Energy Fund (FER), and the Regional Development Agency of Lugano (ERSL).

The LIC links the kindergarten and 18 homes with 5 photovoltaic plants, boasting a total power of 64kWp. The goal is to ensure that the electricity produced in the neighbourhood is consumed locally, enhancing the self-consumption model (RCP). This is achieved through two cutting-edge technologies from Optimatik and Hive Power: a shared 60kWh battery that stores excess energy and an AI-driven demand-supply management system. This smart system ensures both producers and consumers benefit financially.

Now fully operational, the LIC is one of many vibrant energy communities managed by Hive Power across Italy, Spain, and Switzerland. Hive Power and AEM have set a benchmark with the Lugaggia Innovation Community, leading the way in sustainable energy solutions and community-driven projects.