lastbeheer

Lastbeheer, or load management, is the set of techniques used to influence the consumption of electrical power to maintain grid reliability, balance supply and demand, and reduce system costs. In energy systems, lastbeheer encompasses actions by grid operators, utilities, and customers to shape when and how much electricity is used. The aim is to prevent overloads, smooth peak demand, and enable higher penetration of variable renewable generation.

Common methods include price-based demand response, where customers adjust usage in response to time-of-use tariffs; direct load control and automated demand response, where utilities or aggregators remotely cycle or curtail non-essential equipment such as HVAC, water heaters, or industrial processes during peak periods; interruptible load contracts that allow temporary reductions; and energy storage or demand shifting through thermal storage or time-shifted consumption.

Smart meters, building management systems, and other digital controls enable real-time monitoring and automated control. Participants include transmission and distribution system operators, utilities, aggregators, and large energy customers, with residential and commercial customers participating through programs and tariffs.

Lastbeheer supports grid stability, reduces the need for peaking plants, and can lower electricity costs and emissions. Challenges include ensuring customer comfort and privacy, cybersecurity risks, regulatory frameworks, and accurate measurement of response. Related topics include demand response and demand-side management.