Optimization of the Utilization of Renewable Energy Sources in the Electricity Sector

Abstract:- Emission reduction targets as well as the scarcity of fossil resources make a transition of the energy system towards a carbon free electricity supply necessary. Promising energy resources are solar and wind energy. The challenging characteristics of the high temporal and geographic variability of these resources make a systematic analysis of the integration necessary. Subject of this study is the how such a renewable-based energy system ideally should be designed. We investigate the optimal structure of a prospective renewable-based power supply system on two different scales: on the global and on a European level. The paper describes the applied simulation technique employed to combine an adequately precise geographical coverage with high temporal resolution. A linear optimization algorithm determines the cost optimal configuration of the prescribed energy system. As results we obtain ideal energy mixes, generation sites, storage and interregional power transmission capacities required for different scenarios of highly renewable supply