UKERC EDC: Publications

AdHoc_ESD_EN2017_1.pdf

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Abstract:

This project aims to improve the understanding of the opportunity for and implications of moving to more integrated multi vector energy networks in the future. Future energy systems could use infrastructure very differently to how they are employed today. Several individual energy vectors - electricity, gas and hydrogen - are capable of delivering multiple services and there are other services that can be met or delivered by more than one vector or network

This study considers how greater integration between energy vectors, principally electricity, gas, heat networks and hydrogen, could lead to a more flexible and resilient energy system in the future that isable to deliver carbon reduction objectives in a more cost-effective manner. Using a Case Study approach and considering a range of over-arching energy system evolutionary pathways, the study aims to identify circumstances where a multi vector approach to energy system development and operation will lead to a better outcome than evolution of today’s largely independently operated energy networks. The study provides insights into identification of the system conditions and geographies that create opportunities for multi vector systems and the timescales over which these systems are relevant. These early insights will help to plan investment in key infrastructure that will be in place for the long term.

This report presents the analysis of each of the Case Studies:-

Case 1: Retention of the gas network to meet peak heating loads in a future where heat decarbonisation is achieved by high electrification
Case 2: Gas-fired Combined Heat and Power (CHP) and electric heat pumps supplying heat networks
Case 3: Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles switching between electric and liquid fuel running modes at times of tight electricity supply margins
Case 4: Renewable Energy Sources (RES) electricity generation to gas (hydrogen or methane) for injection into the gas system
Case 5: Grid electrolysis to produce hydrogen for a hydrogen distribution system
Case 6: Renewable Electricity Connection Constraint Mitigated by Domestic Thermal Demand
Case 7: EfW Flexing Between Producing Electricity and Gas for Grid Injection

In each case, detailed simulation of the proposed multi vector and counterfactual single vector energy system configurations has been undertaken. The technical simulations inform an analysis of the resource costs associated with the multi vector solution compared to the single vector counterfactual, in order to identify cases where the multi vector solution delivers a benefit. Alongside the analysis of economic benefits, the key engineering and operational challenges associated with the multi vector configuration are introduced. The work on engineering challenges and barriers, and a consideration of potential opportunities for innovation to overcome these barriers will continue in Work Package 5 of the study.

Publication Year:

2017

Publisher:

ETI

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5286/ukerc.edc.000672

Author(s):

Walker, I., Staw, T., Stewart, A. and Tiniou, E.

Energy Category

Class Name:

Subclass Name:

Category Name:

Other Cross-Cutting Technologies or Research

Energy Models

Language:

English

File Type:

application/pdf

File Size:

8644005 B

Rights:

Energy Technologies Institute Open Licence for Materials

Rights Overview:

The Energy Technologies Institute is making this document available to use under the Energy Technologies Institute Open Licence for Materials. Please refer to the Energy Technologies Institute website for the terms and conditions of this licence. The Information is licensed "as is" and the Energy Technologies Institute excludes all representations, warranties, obligations and liabilities in relation to the Information to the maximum extent permitted by law. The Energy Technologies Institute is not liable for any errors or omissions in the Information and shall not be liable for any loss, injury or damage of any kind caused by its use. This exclusion of liability includes, but is not limited to, any direct, indirect, special, incidental, consequential, punitive, or exemplary damages in each case such as loss of revenue, data, anticipated profits, and lost business. The Energy Technologies Institute does not guarantee the continued supply of the Information. Notwithstanding any statement to the contrary contained on the face of this document, the Energy Technologies Institute confirms that it has the right to publish this document.

Further information:

N/A

Region:

United Kingdom

Publication Type:

Technical Report

Subject:

UK Energy Market

Theme(s):

Energy Storage and Distribution

Related Dataset(s):

No related datasets