Energy Systems of the Future

Grid expansion - a prerequisite for a successful energy transition

Another finding is that transmission and distribution grids will have to be expanded and this is the case even for an energy system which depends more heavily on decentralized technologies. “In the absence of grid expansion, the energy transition will undoubtedly fail”, explains Jutta Hanson (Technische Universität Darmstadt), who jointly headed the relevant ESYS working group with Peter Dabrock (Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Nürnberg-Erlangen) and Christoph Weber (University of Duisburg-Essen). “However, if expansion continues to be delayed, a combination of decentralized solar systems with storage systems and power-to-gas technologies could help to ensure that short-term climate targets are still met.”

The more decentralized generating plants, storage systems and consumers there are, the more fragmented will the energy system be. Digital applications including artificial intelligence and autonomous systems can be of assistance in controlling an increasingly complex system. In order to mitigate risks such as cyberattacks, the ESYS working group advises a foresighted approach to designing resilient digital technologies. Plant technology should thus permit rapid adaptation to new requirements by software updates, since it would otherwise be a very complex, costly and protracted task to retrofit numerous small installations with new hardware.

In addition to suitable hardware and software, a well thought out regulatory framework is also essential to ensure smooth interplay between all systems. "The market must enable various prosumption models but without creating ever more special arrangements. Prosumers and other investors must also receive consistent incentives to select the mode of operation and location of their installations in such a way that excessive grid expansion is not necessary", explains Christoph Weber, joint head of the working group.

If citizens are to be supportive of an expansion in wind turbines, solar farms and power grids, they must be able to play an active part in shaping the energy transition. Peter Dabrock, joint head of the ESYS working group, is familiar with the various options: “Households and municipalities can benefit financially from the wealth creation arising from renewable energy sources, for instance by a national Investment Participation Act or special levies payable by operators to local authorities. The population must also have the opportunity to be involved politically. This already works well at the regional level but we need more participation at the federal and federal state levels.” Round tables, citizens' assemblies and discussion platforms might be helpful here.