Improved Representation of the European Power Grid in Long Term Energy System Models: Case Study of JRC-EU-TIMES

Abstract

This chapter describes a methodology to integrate DC power flow modeling and N − 1 security into JRC-EU-TIMES, a multiregional TIMES energy system model. It improves the accuracy of modeling cross-border transmission expansion especially for energy systems with higher penetration of renewable energy sources (RES). We describe three grid representations with increasing accuracy of modeling power flow constraints: (1) basic trade flow without DC power flow, (2) DC power flow with fixed line characteristics and (3) DC power flow with a discretization algorithm, endogenous grid characteristics and N − 1 contingency analysis. The last approach uses the newly developed Integrated TIMES–NEPLAN Software (ITNS) that couples JRC-EU-TIMES energy system modeling with NEPLAN-based electricity grid modeling. To evaluate the improvement of the JRC-EU-TIMES modeling mechanisms, the three grid representations are compared. We conclude that cross border transmission expansion is cost efficient regardless of the grid representation. The impact of power flow constraints is limited for the analyzed case study under the assumption of perfect markets. However, integrating these constraints is leading to slightly higher cross-border capacities for most countries mainly in periods with limited availability of variable renewable electricity. This occurs when grid extensions and peaking power in some strategic countries are more competitive than local peaking power for each country. This is possible without a substantial increase in model running time.

The views expressed are purely those of the authors and may not in any circumstances be regarded as stating an official position of the European Commission.