Research Synthesis

The PATHFNDR synthesis reports are developed collaboratively by the researchers involved in the project, who contribute to the research, analysis, and writing. In addition, the reports undergo internal review by academic experts and external review by economic and political stakeholders, who provide feedback and guidance.

On the Path to Net Zero:
10 Statements on Sector Coupling and Flexibility for the Swiss Energy Transition – Synthesis Report

This report brings together six years of research on how Switzerland can use sector coupling and flexibility to reach net-zero emissions. The findings are condensed into ten guiding statements on sector coupling, flexibility and the non-technical conditions needed to unlock flexibility. 
 
10 Statements:
 

  1. Direct electrification of residential heating and road transport is the key lever for decarbonisation of the Swiss energy system.

  2. Decarbonisation will strengthen Switzerland’s ability to supply its own energy — and vice versa.

  3. Switzerland’s demand for low-carbon hydrogen and synthetic fuels is low, concentrated in industry and aviation, and most cost-effectively met through imports.

  4. Flexible hydropower infrastructure and electricity trading are two central sources of flexibility for the Swiss energy system.

  5. Seasonal chemical storage via hydrogen or other synthetic fuels is unlikely to become economically viable at scale for Switzerland.

  6. Electric vehicles and heat pumps can be major sources of demand-side flexibility, benefiting the energy system.

  7. Taking into account the end-user demand and generation flexibilities in distribution grid planning is necessary to reduce the need for distribution grid reinforcements.

  8. Dynamic tariffs are important to incentivise an optimal trade-off between grid-friendly and market-friendly dispatch and investment.

  9. Properly designed renewable support schemes should provide revenue stability and reduce investment risks while retaining proper incentives.

  10. Electric vehicle and heat pump flexibility only scales if owners accept automated operation that protects comfort and provides compensation.

 
The report includes:
 

Flexibility provision from electromobility and buildings – Synthesis Report

Flexibility from electric vehicles and heat pumps can help Switzerland implement its Energy Strategy in 2050. This synthesis report was conducted by the PATHFNDR consortium explains it in detail. 
 
Key messages:
 
  • With the help of flexibly operated heat pumps and electric vehicles, Switzerland could use more renewable electricity with the same installed capacity  in 2050. 
  • Controlled in line with grid utilisation, this flexibility could reduce annual net electricity imports compared to an energy system without flexibly operated heat pumps and electric vehicles. 
  • Flexibly operated heat pumps and electric vehicles could delay and reduce the need for expensive distribution grid reinforcements.
 
The report includes: