Grid Expansion, Power-To-Gas and Solar Power Imports - Multi-Scenario Analysis of Large Infrastructure Options for the Decarbonization of the European Energy System

Abstract:
Grid expansion measures, Power-To-Gas and solar power imports are frequently discussed technological options for integrating renewable energies into the energy system. Since this poses enormous economic and social challenges for the development of energy supply infrastructures, potential benefits must be analyzed for a broad spectrum of possible futures. This paper provides a comparative assessment of more than 50 European energy scenarios. Therefore, we vary parameters such as costs, weather data as well as restrictions for modelling interregional power flows. The results show that grid expansion plays an important role in most of scenarios for a cost-efficient and secure power supply.