Feasibility Study Energy Concept Wertachtal-Buchloe

Under the motto “from the region for the region”, Naturenergie Buchloe has set itself the goal, as a regional energy supplier, of also utilizing locally available potentials of renewable energies and thus contributing to achieving the climate goals. At the same time, the acceptance of the population should be increased by making this energy available locally.

As a first step, a feasibility study funded by the Bavarian State Ministry of Economic Affairs, Regional Development and Energy examined the combination of various sustainable technologies for generating different forms of energy. The study, which focuses on the rural region, serves as a role model: Naturenergie Buchloe would like its project to be a role model for other players.

Procedure

For the different overall concepts, an energetic, economic, and ecological comparison was carried out by the FfE during the project. The study aimed to provide a basis for the investment decision and implementation of different sustainable energy generation technologies.

Steps 1 & 2: Analysis of the current state & concept development based on different climate-neutral energy generators.

Within the scope of the project, an energetic analysis of the different technologies was carried out based on the actual state, and reasonable concepts were developed. For example, combinations of the following technologies were considered: Wind power, photovoltaics, electrolysis, and biomethane generation.

Step 3: Preparation of energy and mass balances of the scenarios

Based on the first step, load profiles were created, and energy and mass balances were calculated. These were blended together for each concept. For this purpose, an Excel tool was created to integrate the information also from the following steps.

Step 4: Economic efficiency analysis

Subsequently, the production costs of the individual energy carriers (such as electricity or hydrogen) were calculated and compared with potential revenues to lay the foundation for a fundamental investment decision.

Step 5: Emission analysis and analysis of various framework conditions

In addition, an overview of the (licensing) legal requirements was given. and the personnel requirements and qualifications, as well as the space requirements of the individual technologies, were analyzed. In this way, various framework conditions can be included in further consideration and support the decision as to whether further planning and implementation of individual technologies or combinations of these make sense. Furthermore, an emissions analysis was carried out, to derive potential revenues from emissions savings.

Step 6: Preparation of recommendations for measures and hints

Finally, recommendations were formulated and indications were given, which should be considered in the context of a plan following the feasibility study.

The results, basics, and calculations were documented in a detailed set of slides, which was handed over to Naturenergie Buchloe together with the Excel tool.

Outlook

Naturenergie Buchloe uses the feasibility study results to decide whether and which technologies and concepts should be specifically planned and implemented. For this purpose, detailed analyses and further discussions with planners, manufacturers and potential customers are taking place in some areas.