What is a simplified model of the Italian power sector?

A simplified model of the Italian power sector is implemented with only batteries as new energy storage option. Moreover, the model period is set from 2021 to 2040. These two simplifications have been made to limit the model's complexity and avoid excessive computational effort.

Are batteries and Hy-Drogen promoting a progressive decarbonization of the Italian power sector?

Both batteries and hydrogen are introduced as electrical energy storage systems. The role of VRES and storage facilities (batteries and hy-drogen) in promoting a progressive decarbonization of the Italian power sector is then explored from an economic and environmental perspective.

How can OSeMOSYS improve long-term planning of the Italian power sector?

In this work, an updated version of the OSeMOSYS tool is used to perform an optimal long-term planning of the Italian power sector. A time series clustering approach is applied, considering time varying input data, such as the time series related to VRES capacity factors and electricity demand.

What resources does Italy use to produce electricity?

The Italian context At present, the Italian electricity supply strongly relies on fossil power plants, which exploit resources such as coal, oil, natural gas and non renewable industrial and municipal waste [ 41 ].

How much electricity does Italy need a year?

The annual electricity demand in Italy was about 319.9 TWh in 2021, with a higher load in the summer season, as shown in Fig. 1. An increase in the electricity demand is assumed from 2021 to 2030 based on the Italian National Trends [ 63 ].

Does Italy have an offshore wind power plant?

Offshore wind potential assessment Nowadays, offshore wind power plants are scarcely installed in Italy, with a bottom-fixed offshore wind farm of 30 MW near Taranto harbor. Nevertheless, several efforts are being made to develop and exploit also the offshore wind source.