Our new global power system analysis evaluates the viability and optimality of two widely discussed decarbonisation pathways.
Compared to a renewables pathway, the deployment of balancing power plants reduces the total cost of future power systems by as much as 42%, approximately EUR 65 trillion.
Adding balancing power can reduce the total accumulated power sector CO₂ emissions by 21% by 2050 compared to the renewables path.
The use of balancing power allows for enhanced power system optimisation, resulting in 88% less wasted energy due to renewable curtailment by 2050.
Adding balancing power plants can halve the required renewable capacity and significantly reduce the land needed for infrastructure, which would otherwise cover an area the size of Europe.
The world is on a narrowing path to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.
The power sector is pivotal in global decarbonisation efforts, demanding rapid, large-scale transformation. Decisive action is needed now to ensure we choose the optimal way forward.
We compared two pathways from today to 2050 with the aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and limit global warming.
What might surprise you, is that net zero can’t be achieved with renewables alone.
Balancing power plants are key in scaling up renewable energy and crucial to reach net zero.
