1. Ember study finds transmission grid plans are out of step with national plans in several countries.
2. Solar and wind capacities are underestimated in grid plans for multiple countries.
3. Recommendations include prioritizing grid investments, revising regulatory frameworks, and incorporating clean power in grid planning.
A new study from UK energy think tank Ember has found that many countries’ transmission grid plans do not align with national energy security and climate targets for 2030, leading to potential insufficiencies in grid investments. Grid plans in several countries underestimate the deployment of wind and solar technologies compared to national targets, while others overestimate capacity.
Solar capacity is often underestimated in grid plans, with discrepancies in wind and solar deployment expected to lead to grid congestion in the short-term. European countries are investing billions in grid infrastructure, exceeding estimates by the European Commission, but further investment may be needed to align with energy policy.
To address these discrepancies, the report emphasizes the need for political prioritization of grid planning, regulatory framework revisions, and increased oversight by Transmission System Operators (TSOs). Non-wires solutions, hydrogen integration, and anticipatory investments in clean power are also recommended to prepare the grid for the clean energy transition.
Overall, the report highlights the importance of updating grid plans to ensure they support the integration of renewable energy sources and enable a successful energy transition in Europe.