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This paper analyze the benefits of the use of bioenergy, solar thermal and wind energy in a flexible energy system to increase the share of renewable sources (RES) in primary energy supply, reduce primary energy consumption (PEC) and ensure power supply security in Inland Norway, and Norway at large. Firstly, the Inland reference energy system was built and validated using the EnergyPLAN system analysis tool based on the year 2009. Two alternative systems (scenarios), mainly of bio-heat and heat pumps in individual and district heating systems were then constructed and compared with the reference system using EnergyPLAN. The quality of a given energy system can be best described by its PEC, RES, emission levels and socio-economic costs. The result shows that it is plausible to improve the quality of the Inland energy system by optimal resource assortment in the energy mix. Integrated use of bio-heat and heat pumps in individual and district heating systems, as a replacement for direct electric heaters would reduce PEC and socio-economic costs considerably more than intensive bio-heating deployment alone, thereby increasing total domestic green electricity generation. The ability to integrate wind power and its value in the Inland energy system is more reflected by reducing imports of electricity during peak demand periods in winter, as wind power availability in the region is significant as opposed to the low precipitation during these periods. In addition, increasing wind energy penetration helps to limit biomass consumption in a district heating system built on heat pumps and bio-heat boilers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Increasing awareness of climate issues and environmental policy has been a key factor behind the continuous transition of energy systems at different levels. This paper aimed to analyse the energy system of Viken county, located in Norway. An energy system model using the energy system analysis tool EnergyPLAN was developed. Based on the reference year 2018, two future scenarios which focus on changes in the transport sector for the year 2030 and 2050 were designed. Besides changes in the transport sector, the integration of renewable energy sources is considered in the future scenarios. The results of the analysis regarding the future scenario shows substantial CO 2 reduction as a result of energy-carrier switching within the transport sector. The integration of new energy sources, in this case, solar PV and wind power, helps to offset increased import dependency. The primary energy supply decrease and the share of renewable energy increases significantly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]