A Replication Study for Consumer Digital Twins: Pilot Sites Analysis and Experience from the SENDER Project (Horizon 2020)

The SENDER (Sustainable Consumer Engagement and Demand Response) project aims to develop an innovative interface that engages energy consumers in Demand Response (DR) programs by developing new technologies to predict energy consumption, enhance market flexibility, and manage the exploitation of Renewable Energy Sources (RES). The current paper presents a replication study for consumer Digital Twins (DTs) that simulate energy consumption patterns and occupancy behaviors in various households across three pilot sites (Austria, Spain, Finland) based on six-month historical and real-time data related to loads, sensors, and relevant details for every household. Due to data limitations and inhomogeneity, we conducted a replication analysis focusing only on Austria and Spain, where available data regarding power and motion alarm sensors were sufficient, leading to a replication scenario by gradually increasing the number of households. In addition to limited data and short time of measurements, other challenges faced included inconsistencies in sensor installations and limited information on occupancy. In order to ensure reliable results, data was filtered, and households with common characteristics were grouped together to improve accuracy and consistency in DT modeling. Finally, it was concluded that a successful replication procedure requires sufficient continuous, frequent, and homogeneous data, along with its validation.