REN21 report: Power grids, storage, coupling sectors crucial for successful energy transition

Jakarta – The “Renewable Energy Systems and Infrastructure” module of the “Renewables 2024 Global Status Report” published by REN21, a global policy network for renewable energy, highlighted that a successful energy transition requires more than just increasing renewable electricity generation capacity.

According to the report, the development of grid infrastructure, energy storage and the integration of energy sectors – known as sector coupling – are key to ensuring reliable and secure energy supply in the future.

REN21 reports that renewable energy will account for a record 30% of total global electricity supply by 2023, with solar and wind power contributing 13%. However, the report emphasizes that simply increasing the share of renewable energy is not enough to replace fossil fuels entirely.

“Renewable electricity will play an important role in the energy transition. Power grids, energy storage and sector coupling are key elements to ensure the integration of renewables such as solar and wind into the global electricity system,” reads the latest module of the REN21 report launched globally on Tuesday, September 17.

The report also highlights the urgent need to increase investment in grid infrastructure. By 2023, global investment in the grid will reach USD 310 billion, up 5% from the previous year, but this is still far from half of the amount needed each year to support the energy transition.

The REN21 report highlights the success of some countries in integrating variable renewables such as solar and wind into their grids. Denmark and Lithuania, for example, have successfully operated their electricity systems with 100% renewable energy at some periods. Denmark even achieved 67% of its total electricity consumption from variable renewable energy, while Lithuania achieved 58%.

REN21 also emphasises the importance of integrated energy planning across the entire energy supply chain, from power generation to distribution and consumption. By integrating energy sectors such as transportation, heating and hydrogen production into renewable energy systems, countries can create more efficient and resilient systems.

With an emphasis on integrated planning and increased investment in renewable energy infrastructure, REN21 believes that the world can transition to an energy system based entirely on renewable energy. However, this requires clear political and policy commitments from countries to drive the transition. (Hartatik)

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