In order to mitigate the consequences of global warming, the global community must drastically reduce its CO2 emissions. To do so, it must completely restructure its energy system.

But what would an energy system look like that relies on sun, wind, and water instead of coal and oil? What is the best way to achieve this transformation? This is something that scientists at Forschungszentrum Jülich are working on. The focus is not only on energy generation, but also on the expansion of infrastructure, for example electricity grids, hydrogen pipelines, and energy storage systems. The supply of heat to the population and the energy requirements of transport are also taken into account.

Challenges

Analysing which strategies and measures are particularly suitable for achieving the goal of a sustainable energy system is a difficult task. There are several reasons for this, including the complexity of the system. Technical innovations can fundamentally change the energy system. Economic aspects also play an important role, such as the price development of raw materials or technologies, as well as international trade relations. And ultimately, social acceptance and energy policy influence changes in the energy system.

Jülich approaches

Jülich scientists in the field of systems research develop realistic models of energy systems at various levels, ranging from the local to the global level. Using these models, they design various what-if scenarios. They then use these scenarios and analyses to produce recommendations for action. Through their research, the scientists support the development of strategies that can be used to achieve German and European greenhouse gas reduction targets.

If the targets of the German Federal Climate Change Act (KSG) are to be achieved, comprehensive measures need to be in place by 2030 in all sectors. What we do in the next seven years is critically important.

Energy systems based on renewable sources require a different control system than conventional systems in order to balance supply and demand at any location and at any time. Researchers at Jülich’s Institute of Climate and Energy Systems – Energy Systems Engineering (ICE-1) are addressing this challenge by developing models and algorithms to control and optimize sustainable energy networks, for example for neighbourhoods and industrial associations.

Further information

Helmholtz Research Field

Helmholtz Energy

Helmholtz Energy creates the scientific basis for climate-neutral and economically and socially sustainable energy supply by conducting research into both basic principles and applications.

Institute

Energy Systems Engineering

The ICE-1 develops models and algorithms for the simulation, optimization and control of energy systems.

Institute

Juelich Systems Analysis

At the ICE-2 we conduct research into how a sustainable energy system can be achieved and what it might look like.