A serious problem for energy infrastructure based on renewable energy sources is the phenomenon called from the German “Dunkelflaute“. This term describes periods when, due to too much cloud cover and no wind, solar or wind energy cannot be produced. In such cases, energy storage may provide securitybut their construction is progressing slowly.
While Germany added 3,600 megawatts of wind capacity last yearthey added only 80 megawatts of battery outputaccording to BloombergNEF.
Secure the continuity of energy supplies
Therefore, although the Old Continent quickly increased its capacity to generate wind and solar energy, Europe still has to rely on expensive and polluting hydrocarbons.
According to Pranav Menon, research associate at Aurora Energy Research, The path to net zero emissions requires more than the rapid deployment of renewable energy sources. In his opinion, building long-term energy storage options and gas power plants is equally important.
Britain, which turned off its last coal-fired power plant earlier this year, has often solved its intermittency problems by importing more electricity from other countries during periods of low wind and sun. However, a lack of wind was widespread across Europe this week.
