High‐Penetration Renewable Energy in Europe – It’s Already Happening
The Nordic countries –Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland, and Iceland –as a group exceeded 63% renewable power in 2012.
Germany’s “Renewable Energy Transformation” requires 80% renewable electricity by 2050. It is ahead of schedule, surpassing 26% in the first half of 2012. The RE Transformation has produced over 370,000 jobs; the German economic research institutes say it has been a net benefit to the economy, and the country’s economy is by far the strongest in Europe (world’s 4th largest economy overall, and the largest exporter).
Most European Union countries have ambitious, binding RE targets. High‐Penetration PV in New Jersey and Germany.
New Jersey leads the U.S. in PV penetration. Currently PV penetration is: ~ 4.5% peak generating capacity ~ 1.5% annual energy.
Germany leads the world. German power snapshot: German power: 80 GW peak load and 36 GW min. load 32 GW solar and 30 GW wind generating capacity Solar has on occasion reached 50% of the country’s total load Renewable electricity reached 26% in first half 2012.
Note: A solar power system in New Jersey produces 38% more power than the same system would in Germany!
New Jersey can – and should — establish a requirement of 80% renewable electricity by 2050.
Tags: Mr. Sustainable, renewable energy, renewable energy transition, sustainable energy
