Balancing Energy Grid to Meet Future Demand : Integrating renewable sources and advanced storage solutions to secure a resilient energy future in Area SE4

In order to fulfill a growing demand of electricity, there is an urgent need to upgrade the Swedish electricity grid. By 2045 forecast prediction doubling of demand of electricity, up to 300 TWh yearly. This increase mainly depends on the electrification of industry, transportation and agriculture. This thesis work focuses on the development of electricity use in the southern parts of Sweden (SE4). During 2024 the total electricity consumption was 21.5 TWh. The work presented in this thesis suggest that by 2045 electricity consumption will have increased to 32 TWh leaving a deficit of 22.8 TWh. With a 70% self-sufficiency, local electricity generation in SE4 need to increase to 22 TWh. Using a quantitative, scenario-based methodology, this study assesses fossil fuel-free energy and storage systems to balance supply and demand. Using Levelized Cost of Electricity and Levelized Cost of Storage, three scenarios are examined: Scenario 1 is primarily wind/solar-focused, Scenario 2 is nuclear-focused, and Scenario 3 is balanced nuclear/renewable and includes storage solutions, batteries, hydrogen, and pumped hydro. The analysis is based on data from Lazard, Svenskakraftnät, and Energimyndigheten. Timelines for construction guarantee preparedness by 2045. The seasonal unpredictability of renewable energy necessitates substantial storage for grid stability, according to the results. Due to its minimal storage requirements, Scenario 2 is the most economical at 0.76 kr/kWh; nonetheless, it has nuclear implementation issues. Because of its realistic combination of nuclear and renewable energy, Scenario 3 at 0.85 kr/kWh is advised for dependability. Despite having smoother development, Scenario 1 at 0.96 kr/kWh is the most expensive because to high storage costs. The analysis highlights trade-offs between cost, reliability, and scalability in SE4's energy transition, offering insights to grid operators and policymakers to assist Sweden's climate goals.