Both ENTSO-E and ENTSOG continuously strive to enhance data quality, modelling tools and methodologies across TYNDP scenario cycles. The TYNDP 2026 Scenarios built on lessons learned from previous editions, with improvements identified and prioritised based on external stakeholder feedback, SRG input and evolving regulatory requirements.
7.1 Innovation Roadmap and methodological framework
For the TYNDP 2026 cycle, improvements are structured through the TYNDP 2026 Scenarios Innovation Roadmap.
Work on the Innovation Roadmap started in April 2024 within the Working Group Scenario Building (WGSB), involving experts from ENTSO-E and ENTSOG. The roadmap was subsequently reviewed by member TSOs and further refined through engagement with the SRG. It was also subject to public consultation as part of the Draft 2026 TYNDP Scenarios Input Data and Methodologies in June – July 2025.
The Innovation Roadmap serves as a key reference document guiding methodological developments in the TYNDP 2026 cycle.
It brings together three complementary dimensions of improvement:
- A review of innovations not implemented during the TYNDP 2024 cycle,
- A set of essential model fixes introduced to improve the 2024 models,
- Newly proposed innovations to address emerging needs in the 2026 Scenario cycle.
Innovations are proposed by ENTSOs, stakeholders and SRG, and are influenced by regulatory developments. They are prioritised based on their expected impact on scenario robustness and their feasibility within the given timeline.
To support prioritisation, innovations are grouped into three main categories:
- Group 1 – development of methodologies, toolchain innovations and critical model fixes
- Group 2 – mandatory innovations and data analysis tools
- Group 3 – new innovations
7.2 From innovation to modelling methodology
Following prioritisation, selected innovations are translated into methodological developments within the WGSB. These developments are tested and validated before being integrated into the modelling framework. Innovations that successfully passed the testing phase within the project timeline were incorporated into the TYNDP 2026 Scenarios.
As a result, the TYNDP 2026 Scenarios Methodology Report reflects not only technical improvements but also a direct response to stakeholder feedback and SRG recommendations, ensuring that the TYNDP 2026 Scenarios are built on a transparent and forward-looking foundation.
7.3 Key areas of improvement
The main areas of improvement in the TYNDP 2026 Scenarios cycle include:
- Model robustness and quality control, through refinement of methodologies and validation processes,
- Improved data management and transparency, including enhanced use of common data platforms and tools,
- Enhanced system representation, particularly in emerging sectors such as hydrogen, synthetic fuels and flexibility solutions, and
- Simplification and harmonisation of modelling approaches, supporting efficiency and consistency across energy carriers and countries.
The implementation of these improvements and their impact on the TYNDP 2026 Scenarios are described in the following chapter.
