A VCG Mechanism for Optimal Social Operation of Shared Batteries in Energy Communities

We propose a centralised mechanism for the optimal social operation of a shared battery within energy communities of self-interested households, with possibly non-aligned objectives and demand requirements. The mechanism operates in the best interest of the community and collects payments (in addition to the operational electricity charges) so that individual users have a rational incentive to declare the true value of their energy demands. A detailed case study is presented, showing the performance of the scheme and highlighting its merits in situations where the shared battery is too small to cater for the needs of the community.