Overview
Funding:
European Commission, Horizon 2020 Programme
Timeframe:
01/01/2016 – 31/12/2019
Budget:
3 735 308 EUR
Contractors:
CSIC, Spain (Coordinator); INSTM, Italy; CRES, Greece; CIRCE, Spain; Masaryk University, Czech Republic; University of Valladolid, Spain; Anglia Ruskin University, UK; BSERC, Bulgaria; IIASA, Austria; Hnuti Duha, Czech Republic; AEA, Austria; Blue4You, Belgium
Description
The objective of MEDEAS was to create a new computational model to represent the future of the energy system in Europe, taking into account both physical and social constraints. An advanced modelling tool has been developed, with stakeholders ́ feedback, and tested with existing policies, to support the transition to a more sustainable European energy system based on renewable energy sources. The MEDEAS model has a modular design allowing for different levels and interests of stakeholders, with a high sectoral, temporal and spatial resolution. Finally, transparency is ensured through an open access freeware distribution of the model, based on Python (open access programming language), with a detailed users manual aimed at a wider audience, and including free internet courses and learning materials.
The modelling tool developed within the project had three main objectives: 1) to identify key physical parameters, 2) to highlight existing challenges for the transition to a low-carbon economy, and 3) to suggest strategies to face such challenges. MEDEAS also provided scenario projections up to 2050, analysing the challenges of each scenario and the best policies to overcome the barriers.
Results
The main findings of the research conducted in MEDEAS project are summarized below:
- An increasing amount of biophysical resources are required for the renewable energy sources deployment.
- The current implementation rates of renewable energy sources are not sufficient for the EU to become a carbon free socio-economy by 2050.
- If the transition is delayed/avoided the consequences for the EU will be very serious. The projections show huge negative impacts on employment, economic activities and planned GHG emissions reduction.
- Providing enough storage capacity will be key to counteract the intermittency of renewable energies.
- Electrification of all economic sectors will be required to reduce the dependency on fossil fuels.