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The energy transformation requires a shift in the energy sector from fossil fuels and their related technologies to carbon free technologies which are mainly renewable energy technologies. In addition to them, three key elements foster the realization of smooth and stringent transformation paths: coal phase out, energy efficiency, and electricity exchange. By applying the techno-economic energy system model REMod-D, the German case is analyzed in this paper with a focus on effects created by emphasizing these three elements in an energy transformation strategy. The analysis covers their impact on the power sector, heating sector, and transport sector which are influenced by the actual shaping of these elements. Overall, the model results show a shift in the German energy system towards a system using more electricity. This electricity is generated up to 85% from photovoltaics, wind power, and other renewable energy sources. Each of the three elements, if employed, leads by itself to a reduction of efforts on the level of developments such as the deployment of renewable energy and renovations, as well as the electrification of vehicles. In the case of combining the three elements, complementary effects can even be summed up. In the Active scenario with a joint use and implementation of the three key elements, this combination is analyzed as part of a cross-sectoral energy strategy for the transformation. Each element can reduce the total system cost by around 16 billion EUR per year. This paper concludes to prioritize these three key elements in the energy strategy in addition to the strong expansion of renewables and the change of heating systems and vehicle concepts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A clear consensus exists in the German society that renewable energies have to play a dominant role in the future German energy supply system. However, many questions are still under discussion; for instance the relevance of the different technologies such as photovoltaic systems and wind energy converters installed offshore in the North Sea and the Baltic Sea. Also concerns exist about the cost of a future energy system mainly based on renewable energies. In order to be able to address the raised issues on a scientifically sound basis we have set up a new simulation model REMod-D (Renewable Energy Model-Deutschland) that models the energy balance of the electricity and heat sector including all renewable energy converters, storage components and loads for a future German energy system for a whole year based on an hourly energy balance. The target energy systems modeled use a high fraction up to 100% of renewable energies to cover the electricity and heat demand (heating and hot water). The model includes also energy retrofit of buildings as a measure to reduce future heat loads of the building sector. A mathematical–numerical optimizer is applied in order to identify system configurations with minimal overall annual cost. In this first part of a two-paper series we describe the methodology of the REMod-D model and discuss cost and performance values of all included components and in the second part we will discuss the results. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]