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Increasing flexibility of Finnish energy systems: A review of potential technologies and means

    Research output: Contribution to journalArticleScientificpeer-review

    Abstract

    It is apparent that future energy systems need increased flexibility for example due to wider adoption of variable renewable production, general transition towards decarbonization, and bidirectional energy grids. When several energy sectors are considered holistically, the possible flexibility measures increase. This paper reviews potential means to increase flexibility of Finnish energy systems by comprehensively regarding both electricity and thermal systems. After introducing renewable energy data from Finland, the authors discuss how flexibility is defined. Then, several technological options to meet the increased flexibility needs are described and Finnish examples are given. These key technologies and solutions include energy storage, district heating and cooling, electric vehicles, smart meters, demand response, and ICT solutions. In addition, energy markets provide important flexibility means. Therefore, aspects related to electricity market design and heat trading are also assessed.
    Original languageEnglish
    Pages (from-to)509-523
    JournalSustainable Cities and Society
    Volume43
    DOIs
    Publication statusPublished - Nov 2018
    MoE publication typeNot Eligible

    Funding

    This study was performed as part of VTT’s Ingrid research program under the theme “Flexibility in energy systems”.

    UN SDGs

    This output contributes to the following UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

    1. SDG 7 - Affordable and Clean Energy
      SDG 7 Affordable and Clean Energy

    Keywords

    • flexibility
    • energy systems
    • Finland

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