EURO 2025 Leeds
Abstract Submission

2601. A study on Ireland's energy system decarbonization for 2050.

Invited abstract in session MC-46: Energy systems decarbonisation studies, stream Energy Economics & Management.

Monday, 12:30-14:00
Room: Newlyn 1.07

Authors (first author is the speaker)

1. Anibal Baradei
Department of Energy, Systems, Territory and Construction Engineering, University of Pisa
2. Matteo Pozzi
Optit srl
3. Aldo Bischi
Department of Energy, Systems, Territory and Construction Engineering, University of Pisa
4. Paul Deane
UCC

Abstract

Ireland’s energy system will face a considerable challenge in its decarbonization pathway. Currently, the country strongly relies on fossil fuels for transport as well as electric energy generation and residential use, with natural gas imported mainly via interconnectors with the UK. This situation raises both a considerable decarbonization and energy security problem: the loss of these pipelines could cause massive energy shortages and impacts on all sectors. This unique situation reinforces the need to shift the overall system to achieve more sustainability, cost-effectiveness and energy security, by integrating more renewable energy sources, storage solutions, enhanced grid flexibility and demand-side management.

This paper uses a MILP optimization model to study the path to a carbon neutral system for Ireland. It has coupled electric and heating sectors, generation and network expansion models, a linear network model with multiple state-of-the-art electric equipment models, multiple storage and generation technologies, district heating and geographical spatial constraints. The instance consists of a yearly problem with hourly time steps. The objective function is the minimization of the overall system cost, and it includes investment, maintenance, fuel prices, etc.  Multiple scenarios are considered with various analyses to tackle uncertainty considering fuel availability, natural resources, different technologies, regulations, load profiles and time evolution.

Keywords

Status: accepted

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