Work

Strategies to harvest peaks and bridge lulls in sector integrated energy systems

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Sector integrated renewable-based energy systems require new concepts for optimal operation and supply security assessment. Using an integrated optimization model of the German energy system, we identify two future peak loads: a harvesting peak load of ∼287 GW, where flexible sector coupling technologies and energy storage maximize renewable electricity use, and a resilience peak load of ∼139 GW, which occurs during dark lulls and must be met by flexible power plants. Our findings highlight that the flexibility of sector coupling technologies, alongside sufficient energy storage, is essential for balancing supply and demand in volatile renewable-based energy systems. A sensitivity analysis shows that limiting electrolyzer flexibility – by requiring at least 8000 full load hours – doubles renewable electricity curtailment and raises system costs by 10.5% compared to the reference scenario. Therefore, policymakers should incentivize flexible sector coupling and electricity demand while ensuring the expansion of long-term energy storage.

Source: Energy Strategy Reviews

DOI: 10.1016/j.esr.2026.102207

Authors: Thomas Schöb, Theresa Klütz, Toni Busch, Jochen Linssen, Jann Michael Weinand

Institutions: Forschungszentrum Jülich, RWTH Aachen University

Language: English

Topic: Integrated Energy Systems Optimization

Subfield: Electrical and Electronic Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Affordable and clean energy, Industry, innovation and infrastructure, Climate action

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $4,180