Flexibility demand and resources in a low-carbon energy system

The energy sector is facing major changes as a result of decarbonization and electrification of different sectors. Electrification leads to an increasing need for new intermittent renewable generation, which, in turn, increases the need for flexibility in the power system. This paper aims to give an overview of the required flexibility resources in a low-carbon energy system with large amounts of wind energy. The flexibility needs are analyzed by a scenario analysis with two different carbon-neutral future scenarios with varying consumption and generation. Arising flexibility needs can be a significant challenge in terms of both power and energy, and especially winter appears as the most challenging season. Multiple flexibility sources will be needed, such as demand response, storages, and synthetic gas power to handle the flexibility demand and achieve the power balance.