ENGINEERINGNET.EU -- Denmark is a leader in implementing policies for renewable energy, energy efficiency and climate change, according to a review published by the International Energy Agency.
The review applaudes Denmark's long-term vision for a low-carbon future - all Danish energy supply is to come from renewable sources by 2050 - and its achievements to date, but also sounded some notes of caution regarding the implementation of such an ambitious strategy.
"Even with Denmark's exemplary record, challenges remain and there is room for further enhancement if Denmark is to remain at the top of the class” said the Dutch IEA Executive Director Maria van der Hoeven as she presented the review. « This report provides a number of recommendations for Danish policymakers to consider."
Meeting 50% of electricity supply from renewable energy sources by 2020 is a challenge, and Denmark, already a world leader, is better placed than most to meet it.
Nonetheless, integrating large volumes of variable electricity supply will require a large reconfiguration of the electricity network, within Denmark and elsewhere.
Denmark is well-connected with its neighbours, but more investment in interconnectors will be needed. Furthermore the phase out of coal-fired generation capacity will have to be managed with care.
The radical transformation of the energy sector will not be cheap. Denmark has estimated that the transition costs will be in the region of DKK 5.6 billion. Danish consumers must be certain that they are paying for the most efficient solutions and optimal policy outcomes.
(picture: IEA, Maria van der Hoeven)
