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Hot stuff: Research and policy principles for heat decarbonisation through smart electrification
Richard Lowes1, Jan Rosenow2, Meysam Qadrdan3
1University of Exeter, Energy Policy Group, Fellows Office, Penryn Campus, Cornwall TR10 9FE, UK.
Energy Research & Social Science
|September 14, 2020
Summary
Achieving decarbonisation goals requires reducing greenhouse gas emissions from heating. This study proposes four principles for heat electrification, emphasizing energy efficiency and flexible electricity tariffs to benefit consumers and the climate.
Area of Science:
- Energy Policy
- Climate Change Mitigation
- Sustainable Heating
Background:
- Global decarbonisation targets necessitate significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions from the heating sector.
- Electrification, particularly through heat pumps, is a key strategy to replace fossil fuels for heating.
- The transition to electric heating presents challenges that require careful planning and policy intervention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To propose a framework for effective heat decarbonisation through electrification.
- To identify key principles for integrating heat electrification smoothly and efficiently.
- To outline policy mechanisms supporting the proposed principles.
Main Methods:
- A detailed narrative literature review.
- Expert elicitation to gather insights and validate principles.
- Analysis of potential benefits and challenges of heat electrification.
Main Results:
- Four core principles for heat decarbonisation via electrification were identified: prioritize energy efficiency, treat heat as a flexible load, understand emission impacts, and design tariffs for flexibility.
- These principles, when implemented together, offer substantial benefits for consumers and carbon reduction.
- The principles facilitate smoother integration of heat electrification and reduce future infrastructure expansion needs.
Conclusions:
- Implementing the four principles can drive significant progress in heat decarbonisation.
- Policy mechanisms such as building regulations, financial incentives, carbon standards, and energy efficiency obligations are crucial for supporting these principles.
- A strategic approach to heat electrification is vital for meeting climate goals and optimizing energy systems.
Keywords:
COP, Coefficient of performanceDecarbonisationECF, Effective Conversion FactorEPBD, Energy Performance of Buildings DirectiveEfficiencyFlexibilityGHG, Greenhouse gasHeatHeat pumpPV, Photo-voltaicRHI, Renewable Heat IncentiveSPF, Seasonal performance factorSmartMore Related Videos
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