System integration Renewable energies
The system integration of renewables is a critical component of the transformation of the energy sector toward a sustainable and low-carbon future.
In order to gradually replace conventional energy sources with climate-friendly, sustainable alternatives, renewable energies must be continuously integrated into the power supply system. To achieve this, the energy supply system must be fundamentally restructured and adapted.
Ensuring reliable and secure grid operation is of central importance when high shares of renewable energies are fed into the power supply system. The natural fluctuations of wind and solar energy require the grids to be able to compensate for voltage fluctuations and ensure a stable power supply. Modern technologies such as intelligent grid control, load management and storage are needed here.
The flexibilization of electricity generation and demand is another focus of the system integration of renewable energies. It’s about finding sensible ways to match power generation to actual demand while increasing flexibility of consumption. There are innovative approaches to this, such as demand response, where consumers can access flexible electricity tariffs and adjust their consumption accordingly.
Intelligent interaction between power generation, consumption and modern grids is also essential. The use of “smart grids”, which provide real-time data on power generation and demand, can efficiently integrate renewables into the grid. This enables optimized control and distribution of power and contributes to the stability of grid operations.
In addition, efficient use of the existing network structure is required. This can be done by expanding and modernizing the transmission and distribution networks. The expansion of transmission lines, the use of high-voltage direct current (HVDC) transmission technologies, and the optimization of the grid structure help to facilitate the transmission of renewable energy over longer distances and minimize bottlenecks.
To achieve these goals, the system integration of renewable energies is being driven forward in various countries in Europe, with countries taking different approaches. In addition to the expansion of renewable energy sources, the focus is on the development of energy storage technologies, smart grids and other flexible systems.
Selected Initiatives and Projects for System Integration of Renewable Energies in Europe
- Germany's "Smart Energy Showcase - Digital Agenda for the Energy Transition" (SINTEG) funding program aims to develop scalable model solutions for a climate-friendly, secure and efficient energy supply - with high shares of fluctuating power generation from wind and solar energy. The focus is on intelligent networks (smart grids). The solutions found in large-scale model regions will serve as the basis for the planned broad implementation.
- Denmark is a pioneer in the integration of renewable energies. The country with a high share of wind energy has managed to integrate large amounts of wind energy into the power grid. Denmark has also pioneered the development of smart grids, which make it possible to efficiently distribute and control electricity from renewable energy sources.
- Spain has made considerable progress in integrating renewables, especially solar energy. The country has large solar power plants and has taken various measures to facilitate the integration of solar energy into the power grid. To store surplus energy and call it up when needed, Spain is also pushing ahead with the expansion of pumped storage power plants.
- Sweden is particularly pushing the expansion of hydropower and biomass. The country has large hydropower plants that provide a reliable and stable energy supply. Likewise, Sweden promotes the development of district heating systems based on renewable energy. The Swedish power system uses smart grid technologies to optimally integrate renewables.
