Virtual ZEV (vZEV)

A vZEV corresponds to a grid-inclusive connection for self-consumption. In contrast to the conventional ZEV, where all buildings must have one and the same grid connection, with a vZEV it is possible to combine several grid connections on one and the same low-voltage transformer (< 1kV).

In addition to this basic requirement, further points must be clarified as to whether and with whom in the neighborhood a vZEV can be made possible.

These include

• Effective network topology

• Connection types (socket networks or distribution cabinets)

Step 1: Initial vZEV clarification

This initial clarification of these topics is requested directly from the distribution grid operator.

It then becomes clear whether a vZEV is possible, and if so, with which participants.

This information must be available from the DSO within 14 days at the latest with a positive or negative response and justification.

Step 2: Determine participants and apply for vZEV

The second step is to clarify interests. You inform the potential participants about the possibility of participating in vZEV. The information about this, as well as the positive responses, should be recorded in writing with signatures for participation, which will later be required for data transmission approval, as well as an attachment to contracts and other documents.

At this point, an official vZEV application with all interested parties must be submitted to the DSO. Within 3 months, further points regarding the vZEV will be checked and completed.

• Production capacity must be at least 10% of the supply capacity.

• Are all participants behind the same connection point at low-voltage level?

• Are smart meters already installed at all locations or not? (Must then be retrofitted)

• Further hardware available for local reading of the meter points and/or application for SDTA transmission via Swisseldex available?

After all the above points have been fulfilled and around 3 months have passed, the vZEV can start operating.

Private ZEV without balance meter or as ZEV as DSO model

In this model, there is no metering point as a balance meter, neither from the energy supplier nor privately. Therefore, this ZEV is balanced virtually. This requires the metering of all producers and all consumers.

More on the metering concept of private ZEVs

Private ZEV (with balance meter)

In this model, there is at least one measuring point of the energy supplier at the main connection point. The data from this measuring point can be imported into smart-me either via a private sub-metering or via the energy supplier's data hub.

Private sub-metering enables efficient real-time control of the ZEV, which is only possible to a limited extent with the energy supplier's meter.

More about the measuring concept of private ZEVs

House with solar production (EFH)

In this model, there is at least one measuring point of the energy supplier at the main connection point and in some cases also a production measurement. The production measurement must be available for the tariffing of the VZEV. This data can be collected by measurement using a smart-me Telstar as a private measurement or as a data hub import via Swisseldex.

House or apartment without solar production (EFH)

In this model, there is at least one measuring point of the energy supplier at the home connection. The data from these consumers can be collected as a data hub import via Swisseldex.

Details on the configuration of vZEV tariffs