Towards a carbon-neutral regional energy system: Final report of the PEAK Project

This final report presents the key results of the PEAK – Development of the regional energy system in Ostrobothnia – project, carried out by the University of Vaasa and Aktion Österbotten rf between May 2024 and April 2026. The project aimed to support the development of a carbon‑neutral regional energy system in Ostrobothnia by integrating technical, societal, and business perspectives. The transition towards carbon neutrality, increasing electrification, and the growing share of renewable energy pose significant challenges for regional energy systems, particularly in electricity distribution networks. Although Ostrobothnia has substantial renewable energy potential, its utilization is constrained by grid capacity, system flexibility, regulatory conditions, and social acceptance. At the same time, regions play an increasingly important role in strengthening energy self‑sufficiency, security of supply, and system resilience. The PEAK project responded to these challenges by producing region‑specific analyses and development‑oriented insights to support informed decision‑making and collaboration. The project combined techno‑economic analysis of renewable energy potential and grid flexibility with stakeholder engagement and business model development. Key activities included mapping local renewable resources, analyzing flexibility solutions such as demand response and energy storage, identifying opportunities and barriers for regional energy system development, and co‑creating tools to support dialogue and awareness at the community level. In addition, emerging business models for regional flexibility services were explored, alongside regulatory, resource, and competence‑related constraints affecting their implementation. The results highlight flexibility as a key enabler for integrating renewable energy and optimizing existing grid infrastructure, often offering cost‑effective alternatives to traditional grid expansion. Overall, the PEAK project provides concrete knowledge, tools, and insights that support the long‑term decarbonization of regional energy systems and strengthen the role of regions as active drivers of the energy transition.