Flexibility demand in long–term energy scenarios in the U.S. – First results of a case study for New England

Abstract

Greenhouse gas reduction is one of the main challenges toward obtaining a more sustainable energy system. The diffusion of electricity generation technologies that rely on renewable resources is one promising option to tackle this problem. However, the temporal mismatch of intermittent electricity generation (e.g. from wind power or photovoltaics) and load requires an increase in flexibility of the future energy system, for example provided by storage, dispatchable generation, or demand response. We quantify the potential contribution of an enhanced coupling between the electricity and heating sectors to balance intermittent renewable power generation in highly renewable energy scenarios for the U.S., focusing on the New England region (ISONE). For this purpose, a multi–sectoral approach is applied, combining the scenario construction methodology of the Stanford University with the cost optimizing capacity expansion and dispatch model REMix (Renewable Energy Mix). A particular focus lies on the flexible operation of Combined Heat and Power (CHP) plants and electric heat pumps (HP) enabled by thermal energy storage. Moreover, we evaluate the interaction and competition with alternative flexibility options, including power transmission, electric energy storage and controlled charging of battery electric vehicles (BEV).