The transition from fossil to clean energy technologies implies a different approach to energy security. For the European Commission (DG RTD), CE Delft, in collaboration with RAND Europe and E3-Modelling, conducted a study on the energy security of distinct value chains for 17 clean energy technologies, looking towards 2030 and 2050. This study resulted in an Action Plan comprising 30 actions for research and innovation (R&I) to address the challenges in energy security.
The study combined future scenario analysis with macroeconomic modeling and value chain analysis in order to identify the key risks for energy security and potential R&I interventions to address them. We performed this analysis for 48 distinct value chains associated with the 17 clean energy technologies. In doing so, we deployed a broad understanding of the concept of energy security, including aspects such as the availability of critical raw materials, the complexity of supply chains, the sustainability of energy technologies, affordability, skills and digital vulnerabilities.
Some value chains, such as off-grid energy systems, geothermal energy, molten salt batteries and bioenergy, turned out to have relatively low energy security risks. In contrast, higher risks were associated with ‘smart’ technologies (e.g., autonomous driving and smart energy grids), photovoltaics, ocean energy technologies, and hydrogen production (electrolysis). A number of energy security criticalities emerged consistently across the different clean energy technology value chains, especially critical raw materials, digital vulnerability, and skills.
The Action Plan includes 30 measures that can be implemented at both EU and national level, with the priority level of the actions established based on a SWOT-analysis. The proposed actions include supporting and stimulating various dedicated research programmes, aiming to highlight and address the key challenges in the area of energy security.
Further reading: Study on clean energy R&I opportunities to ensure European energy security by targeting challenges of distinct energy value chains for 2030 and beyond – Publications Office of the EU (europa.eu)