Methodology

 

The first step is to create a representative and valid model of the current German energy system in EnergyPLAN tool and comprise the base for developing future scenarios.  

 

A screening process follows to identify the studies that describe how German energy system would look like by 2050. Necessary data from each source is interpreted in EnergyPLAN context in order to simulate each of the three selected scenarios. The performance of each scenario is then evaluated on how they are aligned with the set targets for 2050.

 

At the next stage, a new scenario is developed which is based on i) the strong and weak points found from the analysis above and ii) a sector integration approach as the main focus of the new scenario is to integrate electricity, heat and transport sectors as a way to effectively enable higher integration of renewable energy.

 

Finally, the developed scenario is assessed in terms of flexibility, cost-effectiveness and environmental footprint while its performance is compared with the Reference 2010 and the other three 2050 scenarios.