ENTSO-E and ENTSOG present innovative storylines to shape Europe’s next decade of energy infrastructure growth
In a significant move towards a sustainable and interconnected energy future, Europe’s electricity and gas transmission operator organizations, ENTSO-E and ENTSOG, have unveiled compelling scenarios to guide the development of the region’s network over the next ten years.
These two proposed storylines, known as “deviation scenarios,” go beyond traditional “national trends” and align with both European greenhouse gas reduction goals and national energy and climate policies.
The scenarios aim to reflect the latest advancements in national policies while addressing the ambitious targets for greenhouse gas reduction, energy efficiency, and renewable energy deployment set by the European Union. They explore diverse levels of energy independence and envision the evolution of energy infrastructure in the region.
The first scenario, named “Distributed Energy,” envisions a path towards achieving the EU-27’s carbon neutrality target by 2050 with a focus on European autonomy. This storyline is driven by a societal commitment to achieving high levels of energy self-sufficiency and securing strategic resources such as industrial and agricultural produce. It embraces decentralized initiatives led by citizens, communities, and businesses, supported by relevant authorities.
On the other hand, the second scenario, called “Global Ambition,” charts a pathway towards carbon neutrality by 2050 through rapid global efforts aligned with the goals of the Paris Agreement. It envisions a wide array of technologies, many of which are centralized, and emphasizes the use of global energy trade as a catalyst for expedited decarbonization.
Let’s take a closer look at the key features of these scenarios:
Distributed Energy Scenario:
- Transition initiated at local and national levels, aiming for EU energy independence and strategic autonomy through maximum utilization of renewable energies and smart sector integration.
- Energy demand reduction achieved through circularity, improved energy consumption behavior, and digitalization, driven by prosumers and variable renewable energy management.
- Emphasis on decentralized technologies like photovoltaic (PV) systems, batteries, and smart charging, alongside electric heat pumps and district heating. Electric vehicles play a significant role, supported by e-liquids and biofuels for heavy transport, while carbon capture and storage and nuclear energy have minimal involvement.
Global Ambition Scenario:
- Transition initiated at the European and international levels, focusing on extensive EU renewable energy development supplemented by low-carbon energy sources and diversified imports.
- Energy demand reduction prioritizes decarbonization and diversification of energy supply, with digitalization and automation enhancing the competitiveness of European businesses.
- Emphasis on large-scale technologies such as offshore wind and utility storage, along with various heating technologies like hybrid heating. Mobility sectors witness a wide range of technologies and energy carriers, including electricity, hydrogen, e-liquids, and biofuels. Furthermore, this scenario integrates nuclear energy and carbon capture and storage.
These thought-provoking scenarios offer a glimpse into the potential future of Europe’s energy landscape, guiding policymakers, industry leaders, and stakeholders toward informed decision-making and collaborative efforts. As we embark on this transformative journey, the energy sector must seize these opportunities to build a sustainable, resilient, and interconnected energy network that meets the evolving needs of the continent.
Source: Smart Energy International