Smart Sector Integration

Smart Sector Integration plays an essential role in the decarbonisation process. As such, the European Commission is developing a dedicated communication in the scope of the European Green Deal implementation.

To accelerate the European decarbonisation towards carbon neutrality, this integration should involve different sectors and not be limited only to the power one. Renewable heat solutions, namely solar thermal has also an important role In this context. There are several solar thermal examples that can exemplify this role, either on the building sector, on industrial process heat or district heating one, often enhanced with thermal energy storage (TES).

Find more on the Commission website here.

The role of Solar Thermal

In the context of smart sector integration, thermal storage has a key role to play being it a technology (and policy). In large scale applications a thermal storage pit can help in coping with grid and flexibility issue on a broader level. It’s relevant the example of Denmark where solar thermal and wind productions are coupled in an optimum way through a thermal storage pit to cope with the seasonal needs and availabilities of the two renewable sources. Another interesting case is the combination with heat pumps that boost the efficiency of both the solar thermal and the heat pump systems, can alleviate the burden on the electrical network and of other renewables generation.

Digital tools and innovations

Digitalisation and the use of breakthrough technologies can also contribute to the integration of renewable energy with other sources in order to phase out fossil fuels. Smart meters and smart appliances can provide more control to citizens to manage their energy consumption, and data monitoring support to anticipate peak hours. More information also means a better understanding of energy solutions for individuals and companies looking for ways to take part in the energy transition.