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Industry in Bavaria could make a significant contribution to stabilizing the energy system by 2040
15.10.2024
Industry can contribute its flexibility to stabilizing the energy system. A study has examined the situation in Bavaria in particular.
On behalf of the Bavarian Industry Association, the Research Association for Energy Economics (FfE) has examined the energy industry's potential for flexibility in Bavaria. The researchers assume an installed capacity of 30,000 MW of electrical flexibility in Bavaria in 2040. Compared to 2025, this figure represents a more than tenfold increase.
Around 7,500 MW can be tapped into in Germany by 2045 by reducing the load of industrial processes and cross-sectional technologies - including cooling and drying, for example, they write. The greatest potential exists in the paper industry. The scientists also see "clear potential" in the plastics and food industries. At the same time, they identify a potential load increase of 6,800 MW in 2045.
In Bavaria, the scientists see 1,100 MW as realizable industrial flexibility from load reduction. Measures to increase the load could contribute around 1,000 MW in 2045.
However, adapting processes alone would not be enough to cover demand in Bavaria. Rather, additional options are needed, such as large-scale battery storage or bidirectional charging electric vehicles. According to the authors of the study, the fact that the possible flexibilities are not a sure-fire success is due in particular to the regulatory framework. Here, more incentives could lead to greater development of the potential. In their recommendations for action, they argue, for example, that flexibility marketing should be taken into account when determining individual grid fees.
Last but not least, they also advocate non-discriminatory access to the existing flexibility markets and mechanisms. Minimum volumes, time slices or lead times are always obstacles for the industry to offer products on the spot and ancillary services markets.
The study by the Research Association for Energy Economics entitled "Energy flexibility options in the industry - focus on Bavaria" is available for download.
Source: Energy & Management Powernews
Author: Fritz Wilhelm