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Perspective

Sector coupling

Bioenergy

District heating

+7

New white paper: Unlocking the potential of renewable energy through sector coupling

Sector coupling unlocks the full potential of renewable energy, driving decarbonisation and climate action. Explore key sectors and solutions behind it in our new white paper.

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 that can inspire and guide global efforts towards a green and sustainable transition.

Download the publication

As the world continues its efforts to decarbonise and address the growing climate crisis, integrating renewable energy sources into our existing energy systems is more critical than ever.

Global energy challenges are characterised by a pressing need to transition away from fossil fuels while ensuring reliable, affordable, and resilient energy supplies. This is where sector coupling presents a unique opportunity. By linking traditionally separate sectors, such as power, heating, transport, and industry, sector coupling enables more efficient use of renewable energy and supports the development of a low-carbon economy.

About the white paper

State of Green is launching a new white paper on sector coupling highlighting Danish experiences with building an integrated energy system.

Sector coupling is an innovative approach that involves the integration of various energy sectors to maximise the utilisation of renewable energy in the most energy-efficient way. In many ways, it heralds a paradigm shift in how we approach energy management and decarbonisation. It involves dismantling traditional silos between different forms of energy, fostering partnerships and collaboration across sectors and industries, both locally, nationally and internationally.

This white paper presents highlights on sector coupling in a Danish context with a focus on energy. Showcasing more than 20 cases on sector coupling from Danish solutions providers, it presents an overview of how Denmark works to utilise renewable energy in sectors such as heating, cooling, transport, production industries and farming, while at the same time securing a high degree of energy efficiency and security of supply.

The white paper is developed in close collaboration with Danish Energy Agency, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Denmark, Danish Industry, Green Power Denmark, Danish Agriculture & Food Council and the public-private foundation GESEK – Green Energy and Sector Coupling.

Discover the publication

Unlocking efficiency and resilience through integration

Sector coupling represents a paradigm shift in how we think about energy systems. Rather than relying on siloed approaches, it creates a cohesive energy network where resources flow seamlessly between sectors. This integration paves the way for unprecedented efficiency and resilience, two critical factors in the journey to a sustainable, low-carbon future.

One key aspect of sector coupling is its ability to optimise renewable energy use. For example, excess electricity generated by offshore wind farms can be stored in batteries or converted into hydrogen, making it available when demand is high or when renewable production is low. Similarly, electrification of buildings and industries, another pillar of sector coupling, allows for the use of renewable electricity to power heat pumps and industrial processes, further reducing reliance on fossil fuels.

Moreover, by creating interconnected systems, sector coupling offers a buffer against disruptions. If one sector experiences a supply issue, energy can be diverted from another sector, ensuring stability and continuity. This enhanced flexibility ensures that renewable energy is used more effectively, contributing to a more robust and sustainable energy infrastructure.

Understanding sector coupling

Sector coupling integrates energy systems across sectors such as transport, buildings, industrial processes, agriculture, and water management, while leveraging energy storage and Power-to-X technologies to enhance efficiency, flexibility, and the use of renewable energy.

Read more in “Understanding sector coupling”

Read more in "Understanding sector coupling"

Drawing on a proven track record

Denmark has built a strong foundation in sector coupling, drawing on years of experience in renewable energy and system integration. The white paper “Sector coupling – Unlocking the full potential of renewable energy” outlines several areas where Denmark’s approach to sector coupling supports the green transition.

In the publication, Danish expertise is reflected across a range of sectors, providing concrete examples of how sector coupling can drive decarbonisation.

For instance, the Green Hydrogen Hub in Northern Denmark demonstrates how excess renewable energy from wind turbines can be converted into hydrogen, supporting decarbonisation in transport and heavy industry. Meanwhile, GreenLab Skive and Kalundborg Symbiosis, industrial symbiosis projects, exemplify how different industries can share energy and resources, reducing emissions and optimising production. The integration of bio-waste into energy production also highlights Denmark’s capability to maximise resource efficiency through sector coupling, turning waste into energy for heating and electricity.

As these technologies and infrastructures develop, Denmark’s sector coupling efforts offer a model that can support broader international green transition goals. We hope you get inspired by the perspectives and solutions outlined in the publication.

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 that can inspire and guide global efforts towards a green and sustainable transition.


Discover the publication

You should consider reading

Bioenergy
District heating
Energy efficiency in industry
Energy storage
Green hydrogen
Industrial symbiosis
Power-to-x
Sector coupling
Water management
Wind energy

Perspective

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+12

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24 October 2024
In recent years, there has been increasing global focus on security of supply and cross-border interconnectors in energy. This year’s COP is no exception. Explore Denmark's ambitions and key initiatives in energy distribution and integration at the upcoming climate conference in Baku.