FSR Sector Coupling Platform

The idea of “sector coupling” was recently proposed by the European Commission in the context of the Madrid Forum.

The concept of “sector coupling” builds on the need for greater integration between the electricity and gas sectors – by optimising the existing synergies in the generation, transport, and distribution of electricity and gas – with the ultimate scope to build a decarbonized and hybrid EU energy system.

The Florence School of Regulation aims to facilitate and extend the debate on sector coupling and its challenges by exploring new ideas, innovative projects and technologies which could facilitate the coupling of the electricity and gas sectors – as well as the regulatory implications that the changes will entail.

WHAT IS SECTOR COUPLING?
The EU has committed itself to achieve a zero-carbon economy by 2050. In order to meet the decarbonisation targets, electrification in all sectors is due to be the key development. However, natural gas is still a fundamental pillar of the EU energy sector, as it provides the flexibility and predictability needed in energy generation, which cannot currently be provided by renewable electricity. The transition to a zero-carbon energy sector is therefore meant to imply, along with a progressive electrification, a shift towards a more and more decarbonised gas and a closer interaction between the two. This “sector coupling” clearly entails massive deployment of new technologies, new economic rationales and likely regulatory changes.

Presentation on Sector Coupling by EU Commission (PDF)

ONLINE DEBATES

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  • March 6, 2020 Event passed
What outlook for the EU gas infrastructure?

Prospects for gas infrastructure Online debate with IEA, ARERA, and GRTgaz The 2019 edition of the World Energy Outlook examined, among other things, the prospects for gas infrastructure. This flagship…

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  • September 24, 2019 Event passed
Is gas infrastructure ready for sector coupling?

The online debate “Is gas infrastructure ready for sector coupling?” will tackle regulatory and technical challenges related to the gas infrastructure, which are expected to arise with the increase in…

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  • September 11, 2019 Event passed
A common terminology for gases

This FSR online debate will provide participants with insights on the FSR’s proposal for a common terminology for gases. Sector coupling is meant to accelerate the decarbonisation of the EU…


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Sector Coupling Knowledge

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