Securing System Flexibility and Dispatchable Capacity: Insights from Enlit Europe Panel
Key Ideas
- Panelists at Enlit Europe stressed the urgency of securing dispatchable capacity due to a projected 66 - 100% increase in electricity demand by 2050.
- The focus was on combining technologies like natural gas, nuclear, biomass, hydropower, and hydrogen to meet growing demand sustainably.
- Importance was placed on consumer flexibility and engagement for achieving dispatchable capacity and transitioning to net zero emissions.
- Suggestions were made for improving capacity markets, incentivizing low-carbon assets, and managing consumer assets effectively for system flexibility.
At the recent Enlit Europe conference, a panel discussion highlighted the pressing need for securing system flexibility and dispatchable capacity in light of increasing electrification and renewables integration across Europe. Panelists emphasized the practical strategies required to address the evolving energy landscape. Tilman Bechthold from RWE Power AG advocated for a pragmatic approach, considering the dynamic nature of the energy demand trajectory. The discussion highlighted the significance of a diverse energy mix including natural gas, nuclear, biomass, hydropower, and even hydrogen.
Louis Strydom of Wärtsilä stressed the importance of investing in the right technologies at the right time for achieving dispatchable power. Charlotte Johnson from Kraken brought attention to the vital role of consumer flexibility in the energy transition towards net zero emissions.
The panel also delved into the role of capacity markets, acknowledging their importance while suggesting the need for improvements to incentivize real flexibility and low-carbon assets. The discussion extended to market design flaws and the necessity of granular settlement periods to drive optimal energy generation and consumption.
Furthermore, the conversation highlighted the need for managing consumer assets effectively to enhance system flexibility. The insights shared at the event underscored the complex challenges and opportunities in the energy sector's transition towards a more sustainable and flexible future.
Topics
Utilities
Market Design
Renewables Integration
Energy Technologies
Grid Electrification
System Operators
Consumer Engagement
Capacity Markets
Dispatchable Generation
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