Climate-neutral energy supply in southern Saxony

Grid operator inetz GmbH, part of eins energie in Sachsen GmbH & Co. KG, commissioned Ramboll to implement the first sub-project in its Transformation 2045 plan for climate-neutral energy supply in southern Saxony.

Ramboll, together with long-term partner Fraunhofer Institute for Manufacturing Technology and Advanced Materials (IFAM), investigated the feasibility of a climate-neutral energy supply in southern Saxony by analysing the energy demand for heating, electricity and transport. The results are being used to develop further measures in the region.

As a first step, Ramboll evaluated over 800,000 address points corresponding to an area of approximately 6,200 km², including 177 municipalities. During the analysis, experts examined the energy needs of different sectors such as transport, commerce, industry, and housing. Using GIS models, Ramboll identified specific requirements such as energy consumption patterns, peak demand times, and the infrastructure needed to support those demands. This approach is a scalable method that can be applied to address similar challenges in diverse geographic and socio-economic contexts.

Ramboll then analysed the potential for renewable energies for central and individual heat and power supply. This included photovoltaics, wind, solar thermal energy, large heat pumps, industrial waste heat, and hydrogen. Following these investigations, Ramboll’s energy and management consultant experts together with inetz, developed three scenarios: a reference scenario, an electrification scenario, and a technology-open scenario. Based on these scenarios, Ramboll in cooperation with Fraunhofer IFAM, identified the optimal energy sources and technologies for covering the specific energy demands. The scenario method allows for flexible planning and adaptation based on future developments in technology and policy.

At the end of the project, Ramboll developed a package of tools and methodologies intended to guide strategic decisions for the subsequent years, ensuring that the project’s impact extends beyond its initial analysis phase. The tools and methodologies also serve as basis for a catalogue of measures targeting investments and municipal heat planning in the area.

The Transformation 2045 project highlights the importance of using data-driven methods and long-term strategic planning, encouraging regions worldwide to adopt similar proactive and forward-thinking approaches.