| ID | 125628 |
| Title Proper | Renewable electricity generation in Germany |
| Other Title Information | a meta-analysis of mitigation scenarios |
| Language | ENG |
| Author | Schmid, Eva ; Pahle, Michael ; Knopf, Brigitte |
| Publication | 2013. |
| Summary / Abstract (Note) | German energy policy targets envision a share of electricity from renewable energy sources (RES-E) of at least 80% in 2050. How can the transformation of the German electricity sector be achieved and at what costs? This paper addresses these questions by means of a meta-analysis of 10 recent model-based mitigation scenarios for Germany. It turns out that the scenarios exploit the three basic strategic options of increasing the share of RES-E - domestic RES-E generation, electricity demand reductions, and RES-E imports - to substantially different extents. Domestic RES-E generation increases in all scenarios, particularly from onshore and offshore wind. Scenarios that rely heavily on reducing electricity demand require a relatively low expansion of domestic RES-E generation. Despite detailed technical analyses, insights on the costs of the transformation remain limited. A discussion of underlying scenario assumptions reveals that it is unclear whether (i) RES-E and system integration technology development will be as cost-competitive as postulated, (ii) implicitly assumed institutional requirements will be realized, and (iii) relevant actors in the transformation process will be incentivized accordingly. Therefore, future research should pursue a thorough assessment of strategic options for transforming the German electricity system that consistently integrates technologies, institutions, and actors. |
| `In' analytical Note | Energy Policy Vol.61; Oct 2013: p.1151-1163 |
| Journal Source | Energy Policy Vol.61; Oct 2013: p.1151-1163 |
| Key Words | Energy Strategy ; Energy System Model ; Transformation Costs |