Electricity demand and local, renewable electricity potential of Haag - case study on impact and opportunities of the energy transition on a rural municipality in Austria

Abstract

Climate change, induced by greenhouse gas emissions is evident through out all ecosystems. To preserve the quality of our lives, climate targets have been set on European and national levels. For Austria, the role of rural municipalities for a successful energy transition is significant as 41% of Austria’s population lives in rural areas. In this case study Austrian and European greenhouse gas reduction targets and renewable energy expansion targets were broken down to the level of the rural municipality Haag in Austria. Firstly, the impact of energy saving measures and the future transformation of the heating and mobility sector on the electricity demand was quantified. Secondly, this study shows to which extend the current and future electricity demand can be met by the locally available, renewable electricity sources solar PV power and wind power. Based on this study, the annual electricity demand of Haag increases in the order of 57% from currently 13.57 GWh to 18.34 GWh in2030, to 21.27 GWh in 2040. This increase is mainly caused by the future electrification of the heating and transport sectors. The local potential of wind power and solar PV power of Haag was then evaluated. A large-scale wind park development is not feasible for the near future in Haag, because the legally required minimum distances to residential buildings and infrastructure are not given. By utilising 25% of the residential roof area for solar PV plants the potential annual average electricity yield of Haag ranges from 2106 MWh (2023) to 23161 MWh (2030)to 2401 MWh (2040). This represents 0.17% additional electricity generation of Austria’s 2030 target to generate additional 11 TWh from solar PV power. In proportion to Haag’s population (0.07% of Austrians) and area (0.065% of Austria) this implies a local contribution beyond the proportional share of Austria’s renewable energy expansion targets. Comparing Haag’s potential PV yield with the electricity demand on an annual level shows an over production of 155% (2023), 126% (2030)and 113% (2040). Due to the low timely correlation between demand and supply only 34-39% of the electricity demand of Haag can be directly met by PV power. Measures to optimize the direct use of locally generated PV power and hence to increase the economic efficiency for residential prosumers while minimising the strain on the public grid are a combination of batteries, heat pumps, thermal heat storage and battery electric vehicles. Load shifting supported by emerging smart technologies and energy exchange within and beyond neighbourhoods are considered of major importance for a successful energy transition.