Integrated Strategic Action for Facilitating the Electrification Process

Energy sector is at crossroads facing fundamental changes across its entire supply chain. The surge of new technological solutions revolutionizes the way we generate, transmit and consume energy. One of the major driving factors of transformation is the process of electrification. In order to foster and facilitate the electrification process, a multi-level strategy needs to be implemented. The aim of this paper is twofold. First, we aim to identify the forces of disruption and key areas of technological innovation in the energy sector. Second, we center on the process of electrification. In this context, five key focus areas that should be the center of a national strategic action plan aimed at reaching a sustainable energy future are determined. In order to reap all the potential benefits of the electrification process it is crucial to adopt e-mobility, improve energy efficiency, create synergy between corporate and research networks, invest in research and development to strengthen national capabilities in electric frontier technologies and raise awareness regarding the benefits of electrification. We argue that utility providers and distribution system operators act a key role in enabling the deployment of new solutions and the development of the sector as a whole.