Large scale introduction of Zero Energy Buildings in the Nordic Power System

The objective of this paper is to investigate the effects of a large deployment of Zero Energy Buildings (ZEB) in Norway on utilization of hydropower in 2030. A ZEB is a building with low energy demand, which produces on an annual basis, as much renewable energy as its energy consumption, and is considered as one of the key elements to reach EUs 20-20-20 goals. The simulations are conducted using a detailed power market model of the Nordic countries, i.e. Denmark, Norway, Sweden and Finland. The findings show that ZEBs mainly influence the optimal operation of the power system in two ways, 1) through their lower electricity demand, and 2) through their on-site PV production. Hydro power contributes to 50 % of the total power generation in the Nordic countries. Because PV generates power before the spring flooding occurs, the power producers go lower in the hydro reservoirs, thus lowering the spillage of water, which increases the hydro power production with 0,5 %. Further, the introduction of ZEBs leads to 4-6 TWh lower coal power production, reduced power price, and 17-26 TWh increased export from the Nordic countries.