The transmission system operator (TSO) TenneT has unveiled a new approach for the electricity grid for 2045 which is designed to cope with the challenges of the energy transition.
With Target Grid, TenneT is proposing a network of direct current (DC) superhighways and energy hubs, the DC grid (electricity superhighways), and an improved existing alternating current (AC) grid.
This combination of energy hubs – connected by superhighways – could ensure that renewable electricity can be transported long distances from the North Sea to consumers and industry, and that the electricity grid remains reliable, said TenneT.
Both Germany and the Netherlands are faced with similar challenges: more than a doubling of electricity consumption, five to ten times larger generation capacity, significant levels of required flexibility, and for each country, about 70 GW of offshore wind that has to reach industries and households in Dutch , German , and other European countries as efficiently as possible, TenneT added.
Target Grid is based on the highest electrification scenarios of the Dutch II3050 (Integrated Infrastructure Survey 2030-2050) and the German NEP2023 (Grid Development Plan).
As a result, the Netherlands and large parts of Germany could end up having a network configured to support a fully renewable energy system, which should ensure the security of supply.
According to TenneT, Target Grid makes it possible for the North Sea to become a sustainable green hub for the supply of electrons at the heart of the European energy transition.
The handover to Minister Rob Jetten marks the kick-off of a dialogue with all stakeholders to further shape the Target Grid together.
TenneT said that there are five principles of basic importance with the first one being the development of an unambiguous North Sea country strategy 2050 with clear agreements between the North Sea countries.
So far, Energy Ministers from the nine members of the North Seas Energy Cooperation (NSEC) have agreed to reach at least 260 GW of offshore wind capacity by 2050.
Also, an additional location policy is required to develop demand centres for energy at the right locations, said TenneT.
Moreover, timely licensing is essential, said the TSO, to develop the energy corridors TenneT has included in Target Grid.
In addition, an adjustment of the electricity market model is recommended to facilitate the cross-border exchange of electricity from offshore wind and to properly share the costs for this.
TenneT also outlines that the supply chain for critical infrastructure components is under pressure given the high offshore wind ambitions in the world and the limited supply of critical components, availability of (dock)yards, installation vessels, and manpower.
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