Towards a Future-Proof, Affordable, and Reliable Energy System

Today’s energy system is largely built on parallel, vertical energy value chains (power, gas, heating, and transport), which rigidly link specific energy resources with specific end-use sectors. This model cannot deliver a climate-neutral economy because it is technically and economically inefficient.

The decarbonised European energy system of the future will be built on energy system integration, defined by the EU as “the coordinated planning and operation of the energy system as a whole, across multiple energy carriers, infrastructures, and consumption sectors.”

In the vision of the EU, existing and emerging technologies, processes, and business models, such as ICT, digitalisation, smart grids, smart meters and flexibility markets will work together to create an optimised system which will open up new opportunities for businesses and consumers.

For example, the growth in the number of electric vehicles will increasingly link the power sector with the transport sector, but also with the building sector where most of the charging stations are located. The electrification of transport can only succeed if these various systems are seamlessly integrated with the help of advanced technologies.

How you benefit 

  • Understand how the energy system interacts and how it can be optimised by integrating it
  • Learn from experienced industry leaders and top academic
  • Acquire international network of peers and experts

About the programme 

This three-day intensive course, led by experienced industry leaders and top academics, offers an exceptional opportunity to participate in this exciting new development in the heart of the energy transition.

You will be brought up to date on the EU Strategy for Energy System Integration, presented in July 2020 by the European Commission, and on all the latest developments by experts who are actively involved in these processes.

You will develop an understanding of how energy systems interact and how to best put your own energy expertise at work within the larger context of the energy transition. The course will cover a variety of topics including regulation, the future of energy systems and the psychology of consumer behaviour.

Download the brochure to find more information about the programme.

After this course, you will be able to:

  • Understand the concept of energy system integration and its role in the EU’s energy transition.
  • Identify key challenges in energy transition, including the mismatch in time, location, and function of energy systems.
  • Evaluate the role of hydrogen in the energy system, both in centralized and decentralized contexts.
  • Apply principles of electrification and the impact of DC technology on energy systems.
  • Analyze the flexibility gap in energy systems and explore the five flexibility options to address this gap.
  • Understand the functioning of energy markets, particularly gas and electricity markets, and the impact of renewables.
  • Examine the role of Distribution System Operators (DSOs) in system integration and explore practical examples of energy hubs, cable pooling, and flex tenders.
  • Utilize serious gaming methods to design balanced energy networks, optimizing techno-economic and environmental parameters.
  • Assess public acceptability and behavior change strategies related to energy policies and technologies.
  • Understand the principles of circular systems in energy and how they can be integrated into the energy transition.
  • Apply the energy transition model as a tool to drive systems integration in real-world energy projects.

What’s included in the Intensive Course System Integration

As part of this course, you’ll receive one year of access to all learning materials via our dedicated Online Learning Platform, ideal for revisiting key insights whenever it suits you. Upon completion, you’ll receive a digital certificate of participation, which you can easily add to your LinkedIn profile.

The programme includes a relaxed and engaging evening programme: enjoy a three-course dinner followed by a guided city walk through Utrecht, an opportunity to connect informally with fellow participants and discover the city in a new light. During the course, you’ll also work hands-on with the Energy Transition Model and take part in the Offshore Energy Game, a serious gaming exercise designed to explore system-level challenges and solutions.

Accommodation is not included, but our event managers are happy to assist with suitable hotel recommendations. A dedicated event manager will be on-site throughout the course to ensure everything runs smoothly and to support you with any questions or practical needs.

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