Energiegaps

Energiegaps is a term used in energy planning to denote periods when the available energy supply is unable to meet observed or forecast demand. The gaps can be temporary or persistent and may occur at national, regional, or sectoral levels. They are typically evaluated against planning criteria such as reserve margins, which indicate how much extra capacity is needed to maintain reliability during peak conditions.

Causes of energiegaps include sustained growth in electricity demand, retirement of existing generation without timely replacement, delays or cost overruns in new capacity, and insufficient transmission or interconnection capacity to move power where it is needed. Weather-dependent generation, such as wind and solar, introduces variability that can widen gaps during periods of low renewable output. Fuel supply disruptions, market design issues, and geopolitical shocks can also contribute to gaps.

Energiegaps can take different forms, from short-lived shortages during extreme weather to longer-term adequacy concerns if planned capacity does not keep pace with demand growth. They often manifest as higher prices, constrained supply, or episodes of load shedding in extreme cases.

Mitigation strategies focus on increasing system flexibility and resilience. This includes deploying energy storage, expanding interconnections, diversifying the energy mix, and improving demand-side management. Market design reforms such as capacity remuneration, reliability options, or enhanced forecasting and planning processes aim to reduce the likelihood and impact of energiegaps. Coordinated regional planning and investment are commonly emphasized as essential to maintaining security of supply.