Overview
In 2030 and beyond, multiple energy carriers (electricity, gas, heat, green molecules) will play a role in an interconnected energy system. Increased electrification will support sector integration between end user segments. To benefit maximally from the advantages of sector coupling, a fundamental rethinking of market design, business models and financing models is needed.
The REINVENT project will support the following objectives with a combination of R&D (Digital Twin for sector coupling for Belgium) and relevant real-life test cases:
- Define a unified and integrated vision on sector coupling for Belgium
- Adaptations to market design to support sector coupling
- Development of multi-carrier business models for both industrial and residential flexibility (focusing on energy communities)
- Set of case studies/pilots that will calculate the feasibility of certain ‘sector coupling concepts’ or demonstrate specific multi-energy systems, both at the industrial and the built environment level.
Objectives
REINVENT has 9 main objectives:
- Define a unified and integrated vision on sector coupling for Belgium
- Support the network operators’ integrated multi-energy expansion planning
- Ensure an efficient, stable and secure operation of the grid while maximally exploiting the synergies brought by increased sector coupling and energy system integration, at a minimum cost
- Increase of industrial flexibility through efficient industry-aware integration in flexibility procurement mechanisms
- Support the uptake of multi-carrier and multi-sector energy communities as enablers for investments in flexible assets to support the grid
- Support the development of novel cross-sectoral services and business models
- Support investment decisions by private sector in multi-energy projects
- Support development of digital solutions that facilitate consumer engagement
- Ensure wide adoption of developed REINVENT solutions
Project Approach
The ReInvent approach is built on four key pillars, combining conceptual analysis, advanced modeling, real-world testing, and a comprehensive impact assessment to explore how different energy carriers—such as gas, electricity, heat, and green molecules—can be effectively integrated into Belgium’s energy system.
- Pillar 1: Understanding Energy Carrier Roles
- Pillar 2: Developing a Multi-Sectoral Simulation Model
- Pillar 3: Real-World Test Cases
- Pillar 4: Impact Assessment & Roadmap for Sector Integration
Project Structure
Test Cases
The REINVENT project will analyze seven reference test cases that illustrate key applications of sector coupling and integration. These real-world examples will generate valuable data to validate the project’s simulation models. Additionally, the project will assess how alternative market designs and business models influence the operational and financial stability of these case studies, providing critical insights for future energy system integration.
This project has received funding from Energy Transition Fund 2023 FPS Economy, SMEs, Self-employed and Energy.