In the National Energy and Climate Plan, NECP, Italy sets forward its roadmap how to meet the energy and climate targets set by the EU. Achieving these targets requires actions of all sectors in the society, increasing renewable energy in transport, heating, electricity etc. These targets include among others having 32% of final energy consumption of renewable origin and reducing CO2 emissions by 40% compared to 1990 levels by 2030.
The National Energy and Climate Plan (NECP) sets ambitious targets for Italy to further increase the share of renewable energy sources in the power system. PLEXOS power system optimisation tool was used to model Italian power system and analyse several scenarios to optimise and increase flexibility in the system by 2030. The results show a clear value for flexibility: adding 5-7 GW of flexible gas generation enables better integration and utilisation of renewable energy sources. Fast start and stop of flexible gas generation enables the operation of the units only when needed, yet fully supporting intermittent renewable generation. Better utilisation of renewable energy and non-spinning reserve provision enables 400 MEUR savings in annual system costs as well as increased renewable energy penetration and reduced CO2 emissions.
