Renewable Energy Systems: An Intelligent Energy Systems Method for Selecting and Modelling Completely Renewable Solutions

Abstract

This document summarises the findings from a number of studies that use a smart energy systems
methodology to assess the challenges and opportunities of transforming the current energy system into a
100% renewable energy system. Smart energy systems consider the complete energy system when
determining appropriate energy infrastructure designs and operation techniques, in contrast to, say, the
smart grid idea, which focuses only on the electricity sector. Transmission lines, flexible power needs,
and electricity storage are the main ways to cope with the integration of variable renewable sources,
according to the traditional smart grid's exclusive concentration on the electrical sector. However, due to
the nature of wind power and related sources, these interventions are neither extremely cost-effective
nor very successful. Combining the transportation and/or heating and cooling sectors with the electrical
sector yields the most economical and efficient solutions. Furthermore, the design of future renewable
energy systems may be significantly influenced by the integration of gas and electrical infrastructures.
The study highlights the incorporation of flexible combined heat and power (CHP) generation in
electricity balancing and grid stabilisation, and it demonstrates why electrical smart grids should be seen
as a component of total smart energy systems. It also emphasises how to model and construct
sustainable smart energy systems in the future.