Project LEO (Local Energy Oxfordshire) was a pioneering initiative focused on creating a smart, flexible energy system in Oxfordshire. Its primary aim was to explore how locally generated renewable energy could be managed, stored, and shared to meet demand dynamically. The project investigated how to harness local energy resources—such as solar, wind, and battery storage—through smart grid technology, while empowering local communities to actively participate in energy markets.
A collaborative effort involving academia, industry, local authorities, and community groups, Project LEO tested various innovations, including smart meters, battery storage systems, and demand-response strategies, to optimize energy use and reduce reliance on carbon-intensive sources. The project also developed digital tools for forecasting energy flows and balancing supply with demand in real time, thus providing valuable insights for integrating decentralized energy resources into the broader grid.
Key accomplishments include the successful demonstration of a scalable, community-focused energy system and the development of frameworks that can be replicated in other regions to support the UK’s zero-carbon targets. Project LEO’s findings have set a foundation for sustainable energy practices and policies aimed at localizing and decarbonizing the energy supply.
