ETN Global is proud to announce the publication of our latest white paper, “The Critical role of dispatchable power generation for a sustainable and secure energy transition.” This document outlines four key challenges related to security of supply facing Europe’s energy system, as it transitions towards carbon-neutral future, shifting from one dominated by fossil-fuels towards one based primarily on variable renewable energy sources.  It proposes actionable solutions and calls for immediate action from the European policy makers, and industry leaders to address these:

1. Flexibility challenge:
   • The issue: As Variable Renewable Energy (VRE) sources like wind and solar grow, Europe’s grid must meet increasing flexibility demands to avoid instability and blackouts. By 2050, flexibility needs are projected to grow fivefold.
   • The solution: Double the availability of dispatchable energy resources by 2030 and quintuple them by 2050, including energy storage systems, smart grids, and dispatchable generation technologies.
2. Grid stability challenge:
   • The issue: Balancing demand and supply amid rising VRE integration requires reliable dispatchable solutions for long-duration storage and peaking capacity.
   • The solution: Incentivise dispatchable thermal turbines fueled by hydrogen or carbon-neutral fuels, integrate ultra-fast-response solutions, and create robust regulatory frameworks to ensure grid stability.
3. Carbon-neutral fuel challenge:
   • The issue: Limited availability, high costs, and insufficient infrastructure hinder the adoption of hydrogen and other carbon-neutral fuels.
   • The solution: Accelerate investments in hydrogen production, infrastructure development, and large-scale testing of hydrogen-fueled turbines to reduce costs and build market confidence.
4. Aging fleet challenge:
   • The issue: Europe faces a net decline in flexible generation capacity due to the decommissioning of a number of dispatchable power plants, risking energy adequacy.
   • The solution: Provide financial incentives and regulatory support to extend the operational lifespan of existing fleets and encourage modernisation efforts.

ETN Global’s proposed solutions and calls to action align with the European Commission’s political guidelines and strategic objectives, including the Clean Industrial Deal. They are designed to ensure secure, affordable, and competitive energy future through focussed policies and investments.

You can access the full White Paper here.