METIS 3 study S7 : the role of regional energy networks in a decarbonised European energy system

One of the cornerstones to reach a decarbonised energy system by 2050 is the inclusion of a set of flexibility solutions into the energy system to cover the need for flexibility on all timescales. Such flexibility services can come in different ways such as sector coupling, energy storage, flexible generation, enhanced interconnection, or demand-side management. As stated in the ETIP SNET Vision 2050, one of the main means to deliver this flexibility consists of upgrading and extending the pan-European transmission (electricity and gas) and local distribution (electricity, gas, heating and cooling) energy networks. The European Commission, in its Long-Term Strategy (COM(2018) 773) also considers the development of an adequate smart network infrastructure across Europe as one of the seven main strategic building blocks to reach a net-zero greenhouse gas economy. The objective of the study was first to test the methodology to disaggregate a NUTS0 scenario (i.e. a scenario defined at country level) into a NUTS1 granularity, and then to assess the impact of this finer granularity on the optimal development of the energy mix. METIS 3 Study S7 investigates both the impact of modelling the European system at the NUTS1 level compared to a NUTS0 modelling, and the impact of allowing for a smart distribution of investments at the NUTS1 level. Several energy contexts at NUTS1 level were modelled, different investment options were available for each of these energy contexts.