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Today's energy system models calculate power flows between simplified nodes representing transmission and distribution grid of a region or a countryso called copper plates. Such nodes are often restricted to a few tens thus the grid is not well represented or totally neglected in the whole energy system analysis due to limited computational performance using such models. Here we introduce our new methodology of node-internal grid calculation representing the electricity grid in cost values based on strong correlations between peak load, grid cost and feed-in share of wind and photovoltaic capacity. We validate in our case study this approach using a 491 node model for Germany. This examination area is modelled as enclosed energy system to calculate the grid in a 100% renewable energy system in 2050 enabling maximum grid expansion. Our grid model facilitates grid expansion cost and reduces computational effort. The quantification of the German electricity grid show that the grid makes up to 12% of total system cost equivalent up to 12 billion € per year.

Dispatchable solar power from concentrating solar thermal power plants (CSP) combined with thermal energy storage and co-firing option can provide energy according to demand. A transfer of such electricity from CSP in desert regions to distant consumer centres may therefore complement domestic energies. A detailed energy system modelling showing the benefit and drawback of CSP from Middle East and North Africa for Europe was not yet done. This paper closes the scientific knowledge gap applying an energy system model with a least-cost approach and detailed scenario analysis for the year 2050. Energy system analyses describe the effects of including and excluding a transfer of CSP from MENA to EU via a grid or via point-to-point high voltage direct current (HVDC) transmission lines. A multi-criteria assessment reveals the impact of such CSP-HVDC power plants on energy infrastructure, operational behaviour, cost and emission of the energy system. To evaluate national grid expansion, a new grid methodology is used as composed of transmission and distribution grid. The evaluation shows that power plant capacity, electrical storage and grid expansion as well as electrical curtailment can cause a beneficial impact when CSP-HVDC is used to supplement the energy portfolio in Europe.