Inspenet, June 20, 2023.
Microgrids are transforming power grids , thus playing a crucial role in modernizing the power grid. These technologies enable a transition to decentralized energy sources, reduce dependence on fossil fuels, and improve the efficiency and reliability of electricity supply.
To meet the challenges posed by the power grid, major industry leaders such as Siemens, Albireo Energy, and ABB are increasing the use of smart grid and microgrid capabilities. These technologies aim to modernize the energy network and face current challenges.
Today, modernization of the electrical grid is essential in the energy sector and one way to reduce dependence on central networks is through the use of microgrids, which are local electrical networks that act as a single controllable entity. Likewise, smart grids use digital communications technology to more efficiently manage electrical networks. This shift to decentralized power plants, instead of relying solely on centralized power plants, leads to reduced capital requirements and less reliance on fossil fuels.
It is expected that by the year 2030 the demand for electricity will increase by approximately 40% due to the growth of the population and the economy. To meet this growing demand, there is a shift towards using this technology such as microgrids, which involve lower capital investment and less reliance on fossil fuels.
Microgrids offer society continuous, efficient, cheap and clean energy sources, since they are composed of distributed generators, energy storage systems and flexible loads and when integrated with a smart grid, they can provide a safe and reliable electricity supply. stable.
In the field of microgrid development, Siemens is one of the leading companies and is convinced that its implementation together with hybrid power plants and energy parks can significantly contribute to the decarbonization process.
Recently, the aforementioned company has launched its own microgrid at its North American headquarters, which is not only used as the main source of energy, but is also the basis for pioneering research in areas such as sustainable development and resilience. Siemens’ Princeton microgrid is a leading example of how innovative technology can help achieve ambitious decarbonization goals and deliver significant energy cost savings.
Another positive aspect is that the Princeton microgrid also serves as a tangible and adaptable model that can be replicated in other locations around the world. This makes it a vital tool in the ongoing effort to decarbonise the energy sector and move towards a more sustainable future. The company is committed not only to fighting climate change, but also to working together with its clients to implement technologies and solutions that help them on their own sustainability journey.
Resilience: a vital aspect for the evolution of the electrical network.
Continued investment in this area and modernization of the network will help lower operating costs and save businesses billions of dollars. For their part, the challenges facing the electrical grid, such as power outages caused by severe weather conditions, cyberattacks, and global pandemics, highlight the importance of ensuring grid resilience.
ABB’s global digital leader, Sherif El-Meshad, argues that the electricity grid is the backbone of modern society and that having a stable supply of electricity is crucial. In a context of geopolitical conflicts and concerns about energy security and supply, especially after events such as the war in Ukraine, it is clear that the transition to clean energy sources can also lead to instability. Therefore, improving grid resilience has become a priority for utility companies.
Microgrids: The path to a cleaner and more efficient energy future.
ABB is developing technologies that make the grid more resilient and reliable. They are working on automated solutions that make it simple to monitor and schedule energy use, without compromising the quality of supply. These innovations aim to eliminate the time and effort required to manage the electrical grid, giving companies the ability to maintain a stable power supply even in adverse conditions.
Siemens, Albireo Energy and ABB, as industry leaders, are committed to developing and implementing innovative solutions that promote sustainability and help achieve decarbonization goals. By collaborating with their customers and research partners, they are paving the way for a cleaner, more efficient and resilient energy future.
Source and photos: https://energydigital.com/