New networks of power: on the emergence, diffusion and impact of alternative electricity system architectures
Research Project, 2015 – 2018

​Rapidly falling costs of small-scale power generation, energy storage and information technology may induce a transition in the electricity system. In one future scenario, "smart grids" are central, that balance production and consumption. In a radically different scenario the importance of the grid is reduced and local storage creates a breeding ground for "grid defection". Currently, experiments are made that may lead in both these directions. The goal of this project is to identify possible and probable development paths for the electricity system with a focus on Sweden and Europe; critical factors that influence the direction; and factors different actors can influence and when adaption is required. In three PhD projects, we will follow the emergence of new system configurations globally, study effects of the Swedish pilot projects on smart grids, and, using energy systems models, explore potential technical, economic and environmental impacts of different development paths.

Participants

Björn Sandén (contact)

Chalmers, Technology Management and Economics, Environmental Systems Analysis

Verena Heinisch

Chalmers, Space, Earth and Environment, Energy Technology

Kristina Hojcková

Chalmers, Technology Management and Economics, Environmental Systems Analysis

Mikael Odenberger

Chalmers, Space, Earth and Environment, Energy Technology

Collaborations

Linköping University

Linköping, Sweden

Funding

Swedish Energy Agency

Project ID: P39745-1
Funding Chalmers participation during 2015–2018

Related Areas of Advance and Infrastructure

Sustainable development

Driving Forces

Energy

Areas of Advance

Innovation and entrepreneurship

Driving Forces

Publications

More information

Project Web Page at Chalmers

https://www.chalmers.se/sv/projekt/Sidor/N...

Latest update

10/30/2015