Flexibility needs and options for Europe’s future electricity System

17 November 2017

This study by Energy Brainpool, commissioned by EUGINE, analyses the key requirement in a renewables-dominated energy system: flexibility.

The study shows that different flexibility options will be needed to meet the different challenges involved in balancing demand and supply in Europe’s electricity market in the shorter and longer term. Operators will have to choose the right option according to the specific circumstances of the moment, with reaction time, duration needed and costs for the cyclical operation becoming key parameters for decision.

A simulation of the situation for Denmark and the 4 largest EU markets in 2030 shows that by that time large shares of available steerable power will need to start-up quickly in order to balance the fluctuating availability of electricity from wind and sun – despite growth in storage and grid expansion.