Energiakandjate

Energiakandjate is a term used in energy policy analysis to refer to a set of candidate technologies and projects that could become part of future energy systems. The concept helps organize planning around potential option pathways rather than fixed infrastructures. It encompasses technologies at various readiness levels, from demonstration to commercial deployment, and aims to support decarbonization, energy security, and affordability.

In policy studies, energiakandjate are identified through scenario planning and technology roadmapping. They are evaluated against criteria such as levelized cost of energy, capacity factor, greenhouse gas emissions, resource availability, reliability, scalability, environmental impact, land and water use, regulatory barriers, and social acceptance. Uncertainties in technology costs, performance, and policy can shape their viability and sequencing.

Common candidate categories include renewable power options (solar PV, wind onshore and offshore, hydro modernization, geothermal), low-carbon fuels and flexibilities (bioenergy with CCS, green hydrogen), nuclear options (new-builds, small modular reactors), energy storage (electric batteries, pumped hydro, hydrogen storage), and grid/integration solutions (transmission upgrades, demand-side management, electrification of heating and transport). The concept also covers cross-cutting measures such as energy efficiency improvements and demand response.

Energiakandjate is not a fixed inventory but a dynamic, region-specific tool. It supports comparative analysis, portfolio design, and risk assessment and is updated as technology and policy landscapes evolve. It is used in Nordic and European energy policy discussions and academic work to map potential options for achieving decarbonization targets.