2. Smart Energy System
A Smart Energy System is defined by the following key principals:
1. It is a 100% renewable energy system.
2. It consumes a sustainable level of bioenergy.
3. It utilizes the synergies in the energy system to maximize efficiency and reduce costs.
4. It is affordable. In other words, it does not significantly increase the cost of energy compared to a fossil fuel
based energy system (sometimes it can reduce the cost and maximum increases of up to 10-15% are expected)
5. smart energy systems include the entire energy system in its approach to identifying suitable energy
infrastructure designs and operation strategies.
6. It involves the integration of renewable energy sources like solar and wind power, energy storage systems, and
demand-side management solutions such as smart meters and home automation devices to create a more
flexible and resilient energy infrastructure.
7. The goal of a Smart Energy System is to create a more reliable, secure, and cost-effective energy infrastructure
that reduces greenhouse gas emissions and supports the transition towards a more sustainable energy future.
3. Key Technologies of Smart Energy System
• Renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, hydro, and geothermal energy.
• Energy storage systems such as batteries, flywheels, and pumped hydro storage.
• Advanced sensors and meters that provide real-time data on energy consumption and
generation.
• Smart grids that use advanced communication and control systems to manage energy flows and
improve grid efficiency.
• Energy-efficient building technologies such as smart lighting and HVAC systems.
• Electric vehicles and charging infrastructure that can be integrated into the grid.
• Distributed energy resources such as micro grids and virtual power plants that allow for more
localized energy production and distribution.
4. Power to Gas technology
• Power-to-gas (P2G) technology is a form of energy storage and conversion that converts electrical power into a gaseous energy
carrier, such as hydrogen or methane. It is a key component of the Smart Energy System, which aims to integrate renewable energy
sources into the electricity grid and increase energy efficiency.
• In P2G technology, surplus electricity generated by renewable sources, such as wind or solar, is used to produce hydrogen through
water electrolysis. The hydrogen can be stored and transported through existing gas pipelines or used directly for various applications,
such as fuel cell vehicles or industrial processes. Additionally, the hydrogen can be combined with carbon dioxide captured from
industrial processes or from the atmosphere to produce synthetic natural gas, or methane.
• P2G technology can help to solve the problem of intermittency in renewable energy sources by providing a means of storing excess
energy generated during times of high supply and low demand. It can also help to balance the electricity grid by providing a source of
energy that can be used during times of low supply and high demand.
• Overall, P2G technology is seen as a promising solution for energy storage and conversion in the Smart Energy System, as it can help
to increase the use of renewable energy sources, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and enhance energy security.
5. Multiregional smart energy systems:
smart energy farms
smart energy towns
smart energy industrial parks
smart energy transportation networks
6. Smart Energy Systems Synergies:
There are several synergies connected to taking a coherent approach to the complete smart energy system
compared to looking at only one sector. This does not only apply to finding the best solution for the total
system, but also to finding the best solutions for each individual sub-sector. Such synergies include the
following:
Electricity for heating purposes makes it possible to use heat storage instead of electricity storage,
Moreover, it provides a more flexible CHP production.
Biomass conversion to gas and liquid fuel needs steam, which may be utilized by district heating and
cooling grids.
Biogas production needs low-temperature heat which may be supplied more efficiently by district heating
compared to being produced at the plant.
Electricity for gas such as hydrogenation makes it possible to use gas storage instead ofelectricity storage
which is cheaper and more efficient.
Electricity for vehicles can be used to replace fuel and provide for electricity balancing.
7. Smart Energy Systems Modelling:
• The analysis of smart energy systems calls for tools and models which can provide similar and
parallel analyses of electricity, thermal and gas grids.
• The advanced energy systems analysis model, EnergyPLAN has been developed to fulfil such
purpose on an hourly basis.
• The main purpose of the model is to assist the design of national energy planning strategies
on the basis of technical and economic analyses of the consequences of different national
energy systems and investments.
Two major challenges for 100% renewable energy systems:
• Intermittency: Renewable energy sources such as solar and wind are intermittent, which means their
availability fluctuates depending on weather patterns and time of day. This makes it difficult to ensure a
stable supply of energy at all times. To address this challenge, energy storage technologies such as
batteries and pumped hydro storage can be used to store excess energy when it is available and release it
when it is needed.
• Grid Integration: As the share of renewable energy increases in the grid, there may be challenges in
integrating it with the existing power grid infrastructure. The grid needs to be able to accommodate a
fluctuating supply of energy from renewable sources, which requires upgrades and modifications to the
infrastructure. In addition, there may be regulatory and policy barriers that need to be addressed to
facilitate the integration of renewable energy into the grid.
8. Conclusion
100% renewable energy system is a viable and sustainable alternative to
traditional fossil fuels. It would require significant investment in infrastructure
and technology to ensure a reliable and stable energy supply, as well as changes
in energy policies and regulations to incentivize the adoption of renewable
energy sources. However, the benefits of a 100% renewable energy system,
such as reduced greenhouse gas emissions and improved environmental
sustainability, make the transition a worthwhile endeavor.
