A multifaceted approach with high regional resolution to a coordinated scenario framework as a basis for integrated grid planning in Hamburg

In order to make our energy grid future-proof an integrated grid planning approach for the energy sectors electric power, gas and heat is being pursued focusing on the industrial metropolis Hamburg. To this end, it is necessary to develop a coordinated scenario framework that is accepted by and useful for all participating grid operators. This work contributes using a concept called “Neutral Cell Areas” offering a regionalization approach by describing spatially limited regions. The framework is developed from scratch, meaning that existing energy grids are deliberately disregarded to ensure that “Neutral Cell Areas” provide indeed a neutral point of view and leaving degrees of freedom of the exact power supply open (cf. greenfield approach). Several approaches like city districts, statistical areas, land use plan areas and grid patterns as well as hexagons as evenly shaped cell areas are presented. The “Neutral Cell Areas” are characterized by Key Values based on various indicators and combinations thereof. The indicators hail from a variety of fields. They enable comparability and interaction between the cell areas as well as facilitate assumptions about specific future predictions in the context of energy grid planning.