Market value of variable renewables: The effect of solar and wind power variability on their relative price
Hirth, Lion
Hirth, Lion
Abstract – This paper provides a comprehensive discussion of the market value of variable renewable energy (VRE). The inherent variability of wind speeds and solar radiation affects the price that VRE generators receive on the market (market value). During wind and sunny times the additional electricity supply reduces the prices. Because the drop is larger with more installed capacity, the market value of VRE falls with higher penetration rate. This study aims to develop a better understanding how the market value with penetration, and how policies and prices affect the market value. Quantitative evidence is derived from a review of published studies, regression analysis of market data, and the calibrated model of the European electricity market EMMA. We find the value of wind power to fall from 110 percent of the average power price to 50-80 percent as wind penetration increases from zero to 30 percent of total electricity consumption. For solar power, similarly low values levels are reached already at 15 percent penetration. Hence, competitive large-scale renewables deployment will be more difficult to accomplish than many anticipate.
Lion Hirth, Vattenfall and Potsdam-Institute for Climate Impact Research
Energy Policy 2013; 38: 218–236. doi: 10.1016/j.eneco.2013.02.004
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[1] The market value of variable renewables: The effect of solar and wind power variability on their relative price: https://docs.wind-watch.org/Hirth-2013-Market-Value-Renewables-Solar-Wind-Power-Variability-Price.pdf