A novel concept for a renewable network within municipal energy systems

Renewable energy sources are amongst the more widely acceptable options for the future transformations of existing energy systems. The complexities of such transformations call for various comprehensive preparatory actions. Amongst them, the organisation of a multifaceted renewable value-chain into a renewable network may well be crucial for the successful utilisation of renewable energy sources in the future. This paper proposes a novel concept for renewable network covering entire renewable value chain with division on supply, demand and technology sections. In the past, each section has been addressed separately. The organisation of renewable network covering all sections is deemed to be vital for accomplishing the optimal distribution and deployment of renewable energy sources. Constant technological advancements within the renewable sector indicate the significance of a technology section within a renewable network. The appropriate arrangement of various stakeholders involved throughout the entire value-chain, which includes all sections of a renewable network, is therefore crucial for the further development of a renewable sector. The proposed concept of a renewable network would support the effective operation of a renewable value-chain within a municipality through the establishment of local virtual energy cooperatives aimed at fulfilling energy needs and supporting the development of the community. The applicability of the proposed concept is demonstrated through the development of a biomass network within the municipality of Cirkulane, Slovenia. (C) 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.