Analyzing the Potential Production Amount of Synthetic Fuels in Germany

With regard to the German climate targets to reach a nearly greenhouse gas neutral energy system in 2050, all sectors must contribute by integrating renewable energy sources. The substitution of fossil fuels by synthetic fuels offers a promising approach when producing on a renewable electricity basis. Nevertheless, producing synthetic fuels does not only require renewable electricity as input material but also others, e.g. water and carbon dioxide. This paper analyzes the naturally given potentials, limits, and properties of the required production processes’ input materials and hence determines the maximum potential production amount of synthetic fuels in Germany. Analyses and calculations show that the limiting factor within the production input materials is renewable electricity generation. The potential is scenario-dependent because of more efficient applications using renewable electricity. Investigating two scenarios lead to the results of a German self-sufficient production of 23% respectively 75% of its synthetic fuels demand.