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Full energy system transition towards 100% renewable energy in Germany in 2050

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  • Hansen, Kenneth
  • Mathiesen, Brian Vad
  • Skov, Iva Ridjan

Abstract

Germany has set ambitious policies for increasing renewable energy shares and decommissioning nuclear energy, but there are certain scientific gaps on how this transition should occur, especially when considering all energy sectors. The purpose of this study is to advance the knowledge of transitioning the German energy system to 100% renewable energy towards 2050. Taking into consideration renewable resource potentials, energy system costs and primary energy supply this study develops a path for transitioning the German energy system within the heating, industrial, transport and electricity sectors. The analysis demonstrates that it is possible to carry out this transition from a technical and economic perspective with some measures being vital for achieving this ambition in a cost-effective manner. The most significant challenge in this transition is regarding resource potentials where especially biomass resources are constrained and under pressure. Finally, the most influential measures for achieving the renewable transition are discussed.

Suggested Citation

  • Hansen, Kenneth & Mathiesen, Brian Vad & Skov, Iva Ridjan, 2019. "Full energy system transition towards 100% renewable energy in Germany in 2050," Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, Elsevier, vol. 102(C), pages 1-13.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:rensus:v:102:y:2019:i:c:p:1-13
    DOI: 10.1016/j.rser.2018.11.038
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