Open innovation in industrial demand response: A computing continuum approach to overcoming technological barriers

The rise of Industrial IoT (IIoT) alongside cloud, edge, and fog computing is transforming industrial operations and enabling new Demand Response (DR) opportunities in the Smart Grid. DR allows end-users to adjust energy consumption in response to external signals. Still, its adoption in industry is limited by challenges such as communication, security, interoperability, and computing constraints, especially in environments requiring real-time decision-making. This paper explores how the Computing Continuum can help overcome these barriers and support scalable, flexible, and responsive Industrial Demand Response (IDR) systems. We propose a reference architecture that integrates key IIoT and energy management trends to support real-time processing and system interoperability. A central focus is the role of aggregators and the importance of open innovation and cloud service providers in enabling adaptive and collaborative IDR solutions. Our findings offer a roadmap for aligning technological advancements with IDR needs, contributing to more effective and sustainable energy management in Industry 4.0 settings. • Identifies key technical limitations hindering industrial DR. • Presents cloud continuum as a requirement for real-time, scalable DR solutions. • Notes the gap between DR research and computing continuum developments. • Proposes a flexible DR system architecture aligned with IIoT and smart energy trends. • Offers a base for future DR, computing, and smart manufacturing research.