Volume 61

Barriers and goal conflicts for increased energy resilience from flexibility Arvid Nyman, Cajsa Bartusch

Abstract

This study examines the key barriers and goal conflicts that hinder the development of flexibility in the Swedish electricity system. Through 35 interviews with actors from all sectors of the electricity market, 257 unique challenges were identified. A significant concern is the absence of independent flexibility roles, such as the balance service provider, hindering market access for new actors. Regulatory design, unclear responsibilities for emerging carriers like hydrogen, and a lack of unifying leadership further exacerbate uncertainties. Organizational inertia among distribution system operators and opaque market rules are also noted as systemic impediments. Our findings suggest that improved governance and structural reforms are necessary to unlock Sweden’s full potential for flexibility.

Keywords flexibility, drivers, barriers, renewable energy resources, flexibility service provider