Surplus wind and solar energy can be stored in the natural gas network

The major extension of wind and solar energy creates a need for storage and exploitation of the surplus green energy produced when the wind blows more and the sun shines more in Denmark. PtX seems to become a cornerstone in the solution of the storage problem.

So-called PtX systems (Power-to-X) may improve the exploitation and storage possibilities of renewable electricity. A new analysis from Energinet shows that PtX plants may increase already from the 2020's. The analysis also points out options and barriers in relation to the development within PtX.

By way of electrolysis, PtX plants transfer green surplus electricity from wind turbines and solar cells into green hydrogen or other fuels, for instance green gas. These green fuels are then injected in the natural gas network where the traditional fossil natural gas is ousted. The PtX method is considered one of the cornerstones if the future energy system is to be based on renewable energy.

GREAT DEMAND FOR PTX

According to Carsten Vittrup from Energinet, several players have indicated that they wish to establish PtX plants. He refers to plants in Germany and an interest from Mærsk and Ørsted.

It further appears from Energinet’s analysis that there is an increasing international demand for VE based (renewable energy based) alternatives to fossil based products. Despite the fact that the market price of VE fuel, VE plastics and VE methanol is higher than of the similar fossil product, there is a willingness to pay this additional price.

According to Energinet, the great demand and the technological development mean that we may already start using PtX plants in the 2020’s.