Energy transition: European consumers could save 71 billion euros in 2030

The study “Demand Flexibility in the EU: Quantifying the Benefits in 2030” aims to fill an important gap as no other projections of this scope have been made so far in the EU. It provides a powerful analysis of the magnitude of emission reductions and cost savings that can be achieved if households and businesses are allowed and encouraged to play a more active role in energy demand flexibility.

Among the results presented, it is explained in particular that in the hypothesis of the full activation of the flexibility of buildings, electric vehicles and industry, the situation in 2030 would be as follows:

• 37,5 million tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions saved;
• 11,1 to 29,1 billion euros saved in investments in the distribution network;
• 71 billion euros would be directly saved by consumers;
• 15,5 TWh (61%) would correspond to the reduction in renewable energies avoided.
• An additional 2,7 billion euros could be injected into peak production capacity.

For Michael Villa, Executive Director of smartEn: “We are very pleased that, among the emergency market design interventions, a peak electricity demand reduction target has been introduced to stimulate flexible time-based consumption. As DNV's study points out, the role of consumers is extremely valuable both now, for this emergency, and in 2030, to help integrate renewable electricity and meet our 55GHG reduction target in a timely manner. profitable. »

For Daniele Andreoli, Head of Demand Response, Enel X Global Retail: “The study represents a crucial step for the future development of demand-side flexibility solutions, as it clearly reveals and quantifies the decisive role of flexible consumption in achieving a sustainable and profitable energy transition. »

For Seydou Kane, Vice President, Public Affairs, Corporate, EMEA, Eaton: "This study shows how households and businesses - those who have traditionally paid for energy - can save money, earn money and reduce the strain on the grid if they are encouraged to invest in technologies that allow them to access the benefits of flexibility. »

For Carmen Munoz, Head of downstream activities, EDF R&D: “The flexibility of demand represents enormous opportunities for reducing emissions and managing crises. We will be ambitious and careful in promoting and unlocking the necessary investments only for resources that can effectively achieve climate neutrality. »

The study DNV is a valuable source of information to support the upcoming Fit for 55 negotiations to drive the deployment of more digital and decentralized energy resources, and the full activation of demand-side flexibility for the benefit of consumers and the entire system energy.

You can access the full report here.