Regionally integrated energy system detailed spatial analysis: Groningen Province case study in the northern Netherlands. (1st February 2023)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Sahoo, Somadutta; van Stralen, Joost N.P.; Zuidema, Christian; Sijm, Jos; Faaij, André
• Is Part Of: Energy conversion and management. Volume 277(2023)
• Publication Date: 2023-02-01
• Subjects: Regional energy system -- Integrated energy system modeling -- Energy infrastructure -- Geographical information system -- Renewable resources -- District heating; Direct energy conversion -- Periodicals; Energy storage -- Periodicals; Energy transfer -- Periodicals; Énergie -- Conversion directe -- Périodiques; Direct energy conversion; Periodicals; 621.3105
• DOI: 10.1016/j.enconman.2022.116599
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0196-8904

Abstract

Highlights: Detailed spatial analysis included in a regional energy system modeling framework. GIS tools assisted in regional allocation within an integrated energy system model. Significant differences exist between crude and detailed spatial modeling results. Spatial resolution affects renewable potentials, energy balances, and system costs. Abstract: Regional level energy system analyses and corresponding integrated modeling is necessary to analyze the impact of national energy policies on a regional level, while considering regional constraints related to energy infrastructure, energy supply potentials, sectoral energy demands, and their interactions. Nevertheless, current literature on energy system analysis largely overlooks the regional level. In response, this study provided a systematic approach to refining and improving the spatial resolution of an existing regional energy system modeling framework. The methodology involved creating regions and nodes within the modeling framework under categories corresponding to land use (cities and other regions), energy supply, and energy infrastructure. We established a unidirectional soft linking with geographical information system-based modeling results allocating spatially sensitive elements, such as renewable resources or heat demand. We provided a detailed breakdown of sectoral energy demand, supply options, and energy infrastructure for electricity and heat, including district heating (DH). This framework explicated regional differences in terms of demand–supply mismatch, supply options, and energy infrastructure. Our case study of the Dutch province of Groningen demonstrated clear differences compared to the previous crude regional model, with, e.g., an increased role of biomass (+460 % change) and decreased role of solar (−59 %), while cities with high heat demand densities and/or compact structures exhibited serious DH penetration, ranging from 11 to 21 %. The systematic steps allow for the replication of the model in other regional analyses. Our framework is complementary for energy system analysis at the national and pan-European levels and can assist regional policymakers in decision-making.