A holistic study of energy network hybridization in a Northern European City

The idea of hybrid energy grids is to coordinate the operation of multiple grids and interconnect them via coupling points that enable mutual transfer of energy. Hybridization has the potential to generate synergy effects in terms of improved energy efficiency, supply safety, reliability, and cost-effectiveness. We present the results of a case study conducted as part of the project OrPHEuS. In this study the hybridization potential of the electricity and heating grid of a northern European city is investigated, where the coupling points under consideration are a CHP plant and a large-scale electric boiler. Cooperative control strategies are applied to coordinate the energy exchange between the grids according to real-time supply and demand curves. Our study follows a holistic approach, conducting both fine-grained operational simulations and long-term economic studies that were developed in cooperation with a local energy provider and grid operator. The investigations include multiple experiments to cover a wide range of assumptions regarding future demand and price conditions and coupling point configurations. Our results demonstrate that the hybrid approach is an effective means to reduce the dependence on oil, saving up to 92% of CO 2 emissions, whereas on the economic side the benefits are strongly depending on the future market development.