Flexibility for a secure and affordable power sector transformation

A reliable and secure power sector is a key foundation of the energy transition and energy security. Flexibility and grids are essential to ensure that demand for power is balanced with supply, and that sustainable and affordable energy can be provided to all. Though systems inherently possess flexibility – and new flexibility sources have evolved over time – there is need to keep pace with the growing demand for energy and greater inclusion of variable renewables.

In this report, IRENA evaluates the power system flexibility needs for three timescales – daily, weekly and monthly – at the global and regional levels, and for different decarbonisation scenarios for the years 2030 and 2050. Considering the variability in demand and VRE generation the sensitivity of existing flexibility resources such as batteries, interconnectors, long-duration energy storage and demand-side management are also evaluated. This is intended to inform policy and decision making on grid infrastructure and flexibility solutions.

The study reveals that, at a global level, by 2030 the power sector will require around three times more flexibility than at the end of the last decade to efficiently manage the daily variability of demand, and of solar and wind power generation. By 2050, daily flexibility needs are expected to reach roughly ten times their 2019 values.