Investigating 100% renewable energy supply at regional level using scenario analysis

Energy modelling work to date across the EU has mainly taken place at a Member State level. A regional modelling approach is necessary however to reach the ambitious targets for renewable energy, energy efficiency, and emissions reduction. This paper explores the usefulness of the energy modelling tool EnergyPLAN using Ireland as a case study, specifically investigating the energy system of the South West Region of Ireland. This paper estimates a current 10.5% renewable energy share of energy use, including a 40% renewable share of electricity. We build and assess a reference scenario within EnergyPLAN and three renewable energy scenarios from a technological and resources perspective. The results show that sufficient resources are available for the South West Region energy system to become 100% renewable and quantifies the land-use implications. Moreover, EnergyPLAN can be a useful tool in exploring different technical solutions. However, thorough investigations of as many alternatives as possible, is necessary before major investments are made in a future energy system.