ECODESIGN Presents Latest Research at e.nova 2026

In 2026, Adriana Díaz from ECODESIGN once again participated in the e.nova Conference in Pinkafeld, where she presented two research papers from the work of the technology collaboration program 4E and its EDNA platform.

The first paper, “A Technical Framework for Demand-Side Flexible Devices and Their Potential”, introduces a technical framework for assessing the demand-side flexibility (DSF) of end-use devices. Using Austria as a case study, the paper shows that while many heat pumps are technically capable of providing flexibility, the actual potential depends largely on users’ willingness to participate in flexibility programmes. Based on these findings, the authors propose policy recommendations to help unlock the flexibility potential of end-use devices.

The second paper, “Affordability of Energy Efficient Appliances”, highlights that affordability is a key factor in the uptake of energy-efficient appliances. Low-income households in particular face financial barriers when purchasing efficient appliances, despite the fact that these can reduce energy costs over their lifetime. The study therefore recommends that affordability should be more strongly integrated into energy efficiency policy.