DESCRIPTION:

This training module will explore the impact of a greater penetration of renewables on the electricity systems and markets. The module will start with a characterisation of the different types of renewable-based generation, in terms of their variability, predictability and dispatchability, as well as their cost structures. The technical characteristics of renewable-based generation will be used to assess the way in which its development impacts the electricity system and the effect on the residual load, with the resulting need for greater system flexibility. Moreover, the impact of the different locations of renewables with respect to conventional generation on the power flows on the system will be explored and the resulting issues (e.g. loop-flows) highlighted.

On the other hand, the economic characteristics of renewable-based generation will be used to assess the way in which their development affects electricity markets in their different designs. The module will also consider how to deal with excess renewable-based generation and how to ensure sufficient back-up capacity. The module will conclude by presenting a taxonomy of the different phases in the integration of renewable-based generation in developing and mature markets, as well as real-life examples of approaches to overcome grid-related and market-related challenges.

DESCRIPTION:

The energy transition is an absolute necessity, but we often forget it or keep it on the back burner when discussing security of supply (SoS) and, in particular, the fear of supply disruption. On the road to net zero and in a net-zero energy system, security of supply will remain as crucial as today - if not more - although it will likely show up in different ways and use other tools. While it is challenging to rethink SoS in this new framework, the opportunities for the energy transition are just as numerous. Regulators should contribute to the development of an energy system that ensures SoS as an outcome of the system rather than viewing it as a separate service requiring extra remuneration.

KEY QUESTIONS:

1) What knee-jerk reactions should be avoided in a supply crisis (because they are counter-productive in the medium to long term), and which tools are there that reinforce both SoS and the energy transition?

2) How can the energy systems of the present and the future marry SoS and the energy transition?

3) How can energy regulation harness the potential of energy efficiency towards SoS?

4) What role do prosumers and micro-generation play?

5) What market model could give the right signals for net-zero SoS in the long term (investments) and the short term (supply)? How to avoid that our energy systems are slowly overwhelmed by subsidies and support payments?