Utilising renewable energy subsides in the integration of energy sectors

Political support for subsidising wind power producers is dwindling in Denmark. This is, among other reasons, due to pressure from individual consumers who want their overall energy costs lowered. Utilising subsidies granted to wind farms across energy sectors may be more effective as a means of lowering individual consumer´s energy costs. The following article studies the case of a community owned renewable energy project. The project seeks to employ a strategy of integrating energy sectors (electricity, heating, and transportation) which allows wind power producers to reduce their reliance on subsidies and remain competitive in the current energy market system. It is found that under certain conditions the strategy may be effective in lowering overall energy costs of individual consumers.