Title
Towards a climate-neutral energy system in the Netherlands
Author
Scheepers, M.J.J.
Gamboa Palacios, S.
Jegu, E.
Pupo Nogueira, L.P.
Rutten, L.W.
van Stralen, J.
Smekens, K.E.L.
West, K.J.
van der Zwaan, B.C.C.
Publication year
2022
Abstract
This paper presents two different scenarios for the energy system of the Netherlands that achieve the Dutch government’s national target of near net-zero greenhouse gas emissions in 2050. Using the system optimisation model OPERA, the authors have analysed the technology, sector and cost implications of the assumptions nderlying these scenarios. While the roles of a number of key energy technology and emission mitigation options are strongly dependent on the scenario and cost assumptions, the analysis yields several common elements that appear in both scenarios and that consistently appear under differing cost assumptions. For example, one of the main options for the decarbonisation of the Dutch energy system is electrification of energy use in end-use sectors and for the production of renewable hydrogen with electrolysers. As a result the level of electricity generation in 2050 will be three to four times higher than present generation levels. Ultimately, renewable energy – particularly from wind turbines and solar panels – is projected to account for the vast majority of electricity generation, around 99% in 2050. Imbalances between supply and demand resulting from this variable renewable electricity production can be managed via flexibility options, including demand response and energy storage. Hydrogen also becomes an important energy carrier, notably for transportation and in industry. If import prices are lower than costs of domestic production from natural gas with CCS or through electrolysis from renewable electricity (2.4–2.7 €/kgH2), the use of hydrogen increases, especially in the built environment.
Subject
The Netherlands
Energy scenarios
Emissions reduction
Renewable energy
Hydrogen
Energy system costs
Sustainable Energy
Energy
To reference this document use:
http://resolver.tudelft.nl/uuid:3b3a86a8-d64f-48d6-a8d0-b580171d1b9a
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.rser.2022.112097
TNO identifier
963095
Publisher
Elsevier, Amsterdam
ISSN
1364-0321
Source
Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, 158 (158)
Document type
article