Foreword by:
Lars Aagaard
Denmark’s Minister for Climate, Energy and Utilities
Perspective
Sector coupling
Achieving ambitious climate goals through sector coupling
The following perspective is a foreword for the publication "Sector Coupling - Unlocking renewable energy's full potential" by Lars Aagaard, Denmark’s Minister for Climate, Energy and Utilities.
Photo credit: GreenLab A/S
23 October 2024
Denmark stands at the forefront of the global effort to combat climate change, with some of the most ambitious climate targets in the world. Our commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 70 percent by 2030 and achieving climate neutrality before 2050 is unwavering. Reaching these targets requires a fully decarbonised, green, efficient and flexible energy system.
Sector coupling is crucial in this endeavour. It allows us to maximise the use of renewable energy, enhance energy efficiency and create a more flexible and resilient energy system. By linking different sectors, we can optimise resource utilisation and ensure that renewable energy is effectively harnessed and used where and when it is needed. Denmark’s vast renewable energy potential, particularly in offshore wind, uniquely positions Denmark to lead the way in sector coupling. The wind power potential in Danish waters is more than three times higher than the electricity supply needed in a fully electrified Denmark.
Such an abundance creates potential for Denmark to convert surplus renewable energy into hydrogen and other renewable fuels, facilitating the decarbonisation of sectors that are challenging to electrify directly. The Danish experience moving toward an integrated energy system can be described in three phases: the establishment of district heating and combined heat and power plants, the ongoing direct electrification efforts and the emerging Power-to-X initiatives. Each phase builds upon the previous one, creating a comprehensive and interconnected energy system that supports our climate goals, strengthens our resilience to external shocks and reduces our dependence on fossil fuels.
International collaboration and knowledge sharing are essential to realising the full potential of sector coupling. Denmark is committed to working with global partners to develop robust regulatory frameworks, foster innovation and accelerate the deployment of integrated energy solutions. By sharing our experiences and expertise, we can collectively advance the global energy transition.
I hope you will be inspired.
Sector coupling - Unlocking renewable energy's full potential
Discover the hidden potential of sector coupling in this white paper, offering valuable insights and practical solutions to inspire and guide global efforts towards a green and sustainable transition.
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