Model coupling and comparison on optimal load shifting of battery electric vehicles and heat pumps focusing on generation adequacy

Abstract

The energy transition fosters a dynamic landscape marked by renewable energy, electrification, and complex interactions among actors and technologies. Employing model experiments and comparisons shows promise for exploring these connections and enhancing model clarity and precision. This study adopts a multi-model approach, integrating a model comparison to probe how the electrification of demand-side sectors and strategic load shifts of battery electric vehicles and heat pumps might impact Germany's generation adequacy by 2030. Specific demand models from the transport and heating sectors and a future load structure projection model are interlinked with three electricity system models. The comparative analysis of the three electricity system models unveils discrepancies in dispatch decisions for power plants, flexibility options' load shifts, and their effects on generation adequacy, directly tied to model attributes.The comparison underscores methodological variations (linear optimization versus agent-based simulation, myopic foresight versus perfect foresight) as pivotal, emphasizing the significance of considering load change and start-up costs for power plants. The results show that with optimized load shifting by electric vehicles and heat pumps, the adequacy of power generation is less strained despite increased electricity demand. Moreover, load shifts mitigate curtailment of renewables and consumers, reducing carbon emissions by lowering conventional power generation.