Energy Partnership kicks-off two studies on heating and flexibility

This week, the Sino-German Energy Partnership kicked off research for two new studies on sustainable heating and flexibility. Two meetings, on June 24 and 28, allowed a first glance on the contents and expected outcomes.

Study on Flexibility Mechanisms and Incentives

With an ever-increasing share of intermittent renewable energy sources in the power grids, providing flexibility and flexible power sources are gaining importance. In the past, the Sino-German Energy Partnership largely focused on the flexibilisation potentials of coal power stations. Nevertheless, it is not enough to provide flexible technologies. Much more, the right market mechanisms and enablers are crucial for triggering flexibility in the power system. Hence, this study aims at highlighting the German experience and best practices for designing flexibility mechanisms, markets (such as spot markets or ancillary service markets) as well as business models. The study will provide important insights to Chinese experts and policy makers on designing flexibility mechanisms. The Energy Partnership has commissioned Fraunhofer Institute for Energy Economics and Energy System Technology IEE with drafting the report.

Study on German Sustainable Heating Best Practices and Innovations

In recent years, the global energy transition has made great progress in the electricity sector. However, the heating sectors are still lacking behind. For countries with a large winter space heating demand, such as Germany and China, the heating transition is a big challenge. Especially in North China, where the heating sector significantly contributes to both greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution. Hence, this study aims at compiling innovative German sustainable heating best practices in a comprehensive report. The goal: Fostering the exchange on low-emission heating technologies and involving both countries’ private sectors. The relevant research will be conducted by senior experts from Fraunhofer Institute for Systems and Innovation Research ISI, ifeu Insitute fuer Energie- und Umweltforschung Heidelberg and the Institute for Resource Efficiency and Energy Strategies (IREES).

Both studies are being conducted in close collaboration with the Electric Power Planning and Engineering Institute (EPPEI). Study results are expected to be published in September and October 2019, respectively.