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Potential for Optimization in European Power Plant Fleet Operation

Author

Listed:
  • Bernhard-Johannes Jesse

    (Forschungszentrum Jülich, Institute of Energy and Climate Research—Systems Analysis and Technology Evaluation (IEK-STE), D-52425 Jülich, Germany)

  • Simon Morgenthaler

    (Forschungszentrum Jülich, Institute of Energy and Climate Research—Systems Analysis and Technology Evaluation (IEK-STE), D-52425 Jülich, Germany)

  • Bastian Gillessen

    (Forschungszentrum Jülich, Institute of Energy and Climate Research—Systems Analysis and Technology Evaluation (IEK-STE), D-52425 Jülich, Germany)

  • Simon Burges

    (Forschungszentrum Jülich, Institute of Energy and Climate Research—Systems Analysis and Technology Evaluation (IEK-STE), D-52425 Jülich, Germany)

  • Wilhelm Kuckshinrichs

    (Forschungszentrum Jülich, Institute of Energy and Climate Research—Systems Analysis and Technology Evaluation (IEK-STE), D-52425 Jülich, Germany)

Abstract

Energy policy makers need information about the greenhouse gas reduction potential that could be realized by changes to the operation of the currently existing European power plant fleet to enable short-term actions. Possible measures could reduce the climate impact of the European electricity system and, additionally, be realized quickly as new investments are avoided. In this paper, the Calliope based energy system model Stella of the European electricity system is presented and used for the first time, with the goal to quantify cost and CO 2 emissions optimal operation strategies of the existing European power plant fleet. By applying the model to six scenarios the results show that the greenhouse gas emissions of the European power plant fleet could be reduced by more than 50% with little additional costs compared to today’s power generation mix. It is shown that historic power plant operation follows only economic considerations while not fully covering its climate impact. The results demonstrate to policy makers the scale of reduction potential that could be achieved by short-term actions.

Suggested Citation

  • Bernhard-Johannes Jesse & Simon Morgenthaler & Bastian Gillessen & Simon Burges & Wilhelm Kuckshinrichs, 2020. "Potential for Optimization in European Power Plant Fleet Operation," Energies, MDPI, vol. 13(3), pages 1-22, February.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jeners:v:13:y:2020:i:3:p:718-:d:317670
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    References listed on IDEAS

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