On 18 and 19 June, the ODEON project organised two Living Lab workshops in Athens, hosted by HERON with the support of HEDNO. Bringing together actors from across the Greek energy ecosystem, the workshops provided a unique opportunity to explore how digital, data-driven solutions can support the transition towards a more flexible, resilient and consumer-centred energy system.
The Living Labs are a key part of ODEON’s co-creation methodology. By engaging directly with the people who will operate, use and benefit from its solutions, the project ensures that technological innovation is guided by real needs, expectations and everyday experiences. This continuous dialogue allows ODEON to develop solutions that are not only technically robust but also relevant, practical and ready for real-world adoption.
The first workshop focused on the energy value chain and brought together representatives from the Greek Distribution System Operator, energy providers, technology companies and research organisations. Participants discussed the challenges and opportunities associated with increasing flexibility in the Greek energy system, examining the role that data platforms can play in enabling this transformation. They also assessed how ODEON’s solutions fit the national context, explored potential business models for flexibility services and identified the conditions required to maximise value creation across the energy value chain. Through collaborative discussions and interactive exercises, participants highlighted both the strengths of the proposed solutions and the areas where further development could enhance their impact.
The second Living Lab shifted the focus to consumers and prosumers, recognising the essential role that citizens play in the energy transition. Participants explored what motivates people to become active participants in a more flexible energy system, as well as the barriers that still limit wider engagement. They interacted directly with ODEON’s tools, sharing valuable feedback on their usability, accessibility and overall attractiveness. Discussions also examined how digital solutions can help consumers become prosumers and what conditions are needed to encourage greater participation in the evolving energy landscape, always taking into account the specific characteristics of the Greek energy system.
Together, the two workshops provided a comprehensive perspective of the Greek energy ecosystem, combining insights from system operators, market actors, technology providers, researchers and citizens. This 360-degree approach enables ODEON to better understand the needs of all stakeholders involved in the energy transition and to ensure that its solutions deliver value across the entire ecosystem.
ODEON would like to thank all participants for their active engagement and valuable contributions. Special thanks go to the partners who made these Living Labs possible: HEDNO, HERON, ICCS, Suite5, Intracom Telecom, Space Hellas, Prospex Institute and ETRA. Their collaboration and expertise continue to play a vital role in shaping innovative digital solutions for a smarter, more flexible and more inclusive European energy system.
