The Germany Federal Network Agency (BNetzA) has approved the electricity scenario framework for future grid development by 2037 and 2045.
Three scenarios are approved for the years 2037 and 2045, outlining three possible paths to achieving climate neutrality.
All scenarios take into account the planned expansion of renewable energies in accordance with the objectives of the current amendments to the Renewable Energy Sources Act and the Wind at Sea Act.
In development path C, the expansion targets of the EEG are even slightly exceeded, BNetzA said.
In all scenarios of the year 2045, more than 1000 terrawatt-hours of electricity would be generated from renewable energies.
Hydrogen is increasingly being used in development path A.
In addition to the import of hydrogen, hydrogen production from domestic electrolysis also plays an important role.
The other two paths B and C are characterised by stronger direct electrification.
These two paths differ in different assumptions about efficiency gains and the level of power consumption. In central scenario B, the highest efficiency is assumed, BNetzA said.
Transmission system operators now have to prepare a first draft of the electricity grid development plan by 10 December.
A consulted second draft must be submitted to BNetzA by 8 May 2023.
BNetzA president Klaus Muller said: “For the first time, we are focusing on achieving climate neutrality in 2045.
“The scenario framework takes into account the current energy policy goals of the Federal Government from the coalition agreement and the Easter package.
“On the basis of these assumptions, the transmission system operators are now called upon to calculate the necessary grid expansion and to submit it to us.”