Capacity remuneration mechanisms in the EU : today, tomorrow, and a look further ahead

Abstract

In this paper, we discuss the implementation of Capacity Remuneration Mechanisms (CRM) in the European Union (EU). We first illustrate that the costs of CRMs in the EU are significantly lower than in the US. Next, we discuss how the Clean Energy Package (CEP) intends to limit the future role of CRMs. Two steps are introduced to check if CRMs are really needed: a European resource adequacy assessment and a national implementation plan to improve current electricity market design. In case residual adequacy concerns persist, the CEP also includes provisions to guide the design of a CRM. Last, we discuss the role of the consumer in securing resource adequacy in the future.