Palo Alto / London, December 10, 2024 – The Mercury Consortium, an innovative initiative uniting over 20 leading energy companies, has been launched with the ambitious goal of advancing clean energy adoption. Key members include Octopus Energy, EDF Energy, Amazon Web Services, and Oracle.
Collaboration at its core
Developed by Kraken, the proprietary platform of Octopus Energy, the consortium is inspired by connectivity standards like Bluetooth. It aims to establish universal guidelines that simplify the integration of low-carbon technologies into the global energy grid. The project is managed by the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI), a non-profit organization advancing sustainable energy research and development.
Objectives and impact
The consortium focuses on:
- Setting common standards for devices like electric vehicles, solar panels, and home batteries.
- Enhancing interoperability, allowing devices to communicate effectively with the grid.
- Supporting the integration of over 200 million low-carbon devices by 2030, boosting grid efficiency.
Interoperability is critical to prevent demand peaks that could strain grids and necessitate costly upgrades. With shared standards, devices can participate in Demand Response programs, enhancing the resilience and flexibility of global energy systems.
Building a greener, accessible future
Arshad Mansoor, President and CEO of EPRI, emphasized, “The seamless integration of technologies is key to modern energy systems. With the Mercury Consortium, we can accelerate the path to a zero-emissions future and expand the use of low-carbon technologies.”
Devrim Celal of Kraken described the initiative as the “Bluetooth of low-carbon technologies,” a vital step in driving decarbonization and creating a globally sustainable energy network.
A global effort
Membership in the consortium is open to manufacturers, technology providers, and regulators worldwide. This inclusive approach fosters a global network of cooperation, paving the way for clean, accessible energy solutions.