Is it right that renewable energies such as solar power can not cover the base load of the power demand in Germany?
This is not correct because the comparison between individual energy sources is misleading. What is crucial is the mixture of different renewable sources – it could very well replace the conventional power plant mix in the long term. Photovoltaic systems and wind power systems compliment each other both during the day and over the seasons. Wind power systems can be operated at night and reach their peak power in winter, solar systems typically deliver their maximum power around midday and in summer. This allows the conventional electricity network to be relieved effectively, especially at times of extreme loading. Reserve capacities are necessary to cover the shortfall in electricity supply. Biomass power plants and pumped storage plants could be a consideration here. With the help of weather forecasts and modern communication technology, a network of many small decentralised generators can be controlled in such a way that it operates as a “virtual power plant”.
