Szektorkapcsolt

Szektorkapcsolt is a term used in energy systems to describe the integration and coordinated operation of different energy-consuming sectors, primarily electricity, heating and cooling, transport, and industry. The aim is to create a more flexible, efficient, and decarbonized energy system by exploiting the interdependencies between sectors and using electricity as an overarching energy carrier where possible. The concept is often referred to in English as sector coupling.

The core idea of szektorkapcsolt systems is to link sectors so that energy flows can be shifted, stored, or converted across them. This enables higher shares of renewable electricity by using electricity for heating, mobility, or industrial processes, and it allows excess or affordable electricity to be transformed into other energy vectors such as heat, hydrogen, or synthetic fuels. Key mechanisms include electrification of heating and transport, power-to-X technologies, flexible demand, and integrated energy storage. Infrastructure elements such as district heating networks, gas grids capable of handling hydrogen or synthetic methane, and intelligent grid and market designs are essential to enable cross-sector interactions.

Technologies and practices associated with szektorkapcsolt approaches include heat pumps, electric vehicles, hydrogen production via electrolysis, and the use of thermal and chemical storage. Demand-side management, smart charging, and dynamic pricing help align consumption with renewable generation. The approach aims to improve energy security, reduce carbon emissions, and accelerate the integration of renewables, though it requires coordinated policy support, investment, and regulatory reforms to address market design, safety, and interoperability challenges.