The transformation of the Energy Industry is a key challenge for Poland and the world, as it requires a change in the way electricity and heat are generated and distributed. Renewable energy sources, such as wind, sun, water, and biomass, offer many advantages, including lower greenhouse gas emissions, reduced fossil fuel consumption, and greater energy independence. However, to effectively utilize these sources, a comprehensive approach to planning the acquisition and generation of power is needed, taking into account their variability, dispersion, and costs.
A comprehensive approach to planning the acquisition and generation of power from renewable sources involves the integration of various technologies, systems, and strategies that ensure optimal use of resources and energy demand. Some of these elements include:
Development of smart grids, which enable communication and coordination between producers, consumers, and network operators, as well as automatic adjustment to changing conditions and behaviors.
Introduction of energy storage, which allows for the accumulation of excess energy during periods of low demand and its release during periods of high demand, increasing the flexibility and stability of the system.
Application of demand response systems, which involve encouraging or limiting energy consumption by consumers depending on the availability and price of energy, reducing peak demand and network load.
Use of information and communication technologies (ICT), which enable the collection, processing, and analysis of data on the state and operation of the energy system, improving its efficiency, safety, and quality.
Optimization of renewable energy installations management using modern systems such as EMACS. EMACS integrates data from various sources, such as inverters, meters, sensors, weather and energy market forecasts, and presents it in a clear and intuitive way. EMACS allows for real-time monitoring of renewable energy installations, analyzing their performance and profitability, optimizing their parameters, and planning maintenance. EMACS is also a tool for reporting and auditing, which facilitates compliance with legal and contractual requirements. Thus, EMACS is not only a SCADA system but also a business analysis system that helps owners and operators of renewable energy installations make better decisions and increase their competitiveness in the market.
The transformation of the Energy Industry is a long-term and complex process that requires the cooperation and commitment of all stakeholders, such as the government, private sector, social organizations, and citizens. However, it is necessary and possible to ensure sustainable development and a better quality of life for future generations.
Renewable energy refers to the use of energy sources that are unlimited and do not pollute the environment, such as wind, sun, water, and biomass.
Investing in renewable energy sources (RES) offers numerous economic benefits, including:
Lower energy production costs, as renewable sources are cheaper and more stable than fossil fuels.
Increased competitiveness and innovation in the energy sector, as RES require new technologies and solutions.
Creation of new jobs and local development, as RES are decentralized and involve communities.
Improved energy security, as RES reduce dependence on fossil fuel imports and the risk of supply disruptions.
Contribution to environmental protection and the fight against climate change, as RES reduce greenhouse gas emissions and other pollutants.
Modernity and efficiency in renewable energy…
…are key factors that influence the investment attractiveness of RES. Modernity means the use of the latest technologies and quality standards, ensuring high efficiency and reliability of RES systems. Efficiency implies optimizing costs and profits associated with the production and consumption of energy from RES, taking into account technical, economic, social, and environmental aspects.
Both modernity in approach and efficiency in implementation translate into the comprehensiveness of solutions provided for businesses, influencing their profitability and competitiveness in the energy market.
Comprehensive business solutions in the RES sector
Business solutions in energy sector provide full support and assistance for investors and entrepreneurs interested in RES. These solutions can include:
Consulting and market analysis, regulations, technologies, and financing of RES.
Management and optimization of energy production and consumption from RES, including monitoring, control, storage, and sale of excess energy.
Integration and cooperation with other entities in the energy sector, such as suppliers, consumers, network operators, and regulators.
Utilizing the Potential of RES
Investors and entrepreneurs can benefit from the full potential of RES (Renewable Energy Sources) through comprehensive business solutions. These services not only enhance the efficiency and profitability of investments but also minimize the risks and costs associated with RES.
RES Service Providers
Various entities, including specialized companies, research institutions, NGOs, and public-private partnerships, provide these comprehensive solutions. They offer support tailored to the specific needs of the market.
Example of a RES Platform
[RES Platform] serves as an example of such an initiative. It connects suppliers and consumers of RES in Poland, offering a wide range of services: consultancy, technical support, legal, and financial assistance.
Creativity is a key factor in the development of renewable energy sources (RES). It gives rise to new engineering solutions that enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and minimize negative environmental impact.
Some examples of creative projects related to RES include:
Artificial leaves that mimic the process of photosynthesis, producing oxygen and hydrogen from water and sunlight.
Flying wind turbines that harness stronger and more stable winds at high altitudes and transmit energy to the ground via cables.
Perovskite solar panels, which have the potential to achieve higher efficiency and lower cost compared to traditional silicon panels.
These and many other ideas illustrate how creativity supports the development of RES and provides innovative engineering solutions. Creativity is not only a source of inspiration but also a tool for problem-solving and creating a better world.
Example: Floating solar farms
Engineers and automation experts are constantly seeking new solutions like those mentioned above, as well as finding unconventional uses for existing solutions. Floating solar farms exemplify this approach and represent one of the latest trends in renewable energy. Here are some key facts about them:
Floating solar farms make use of water surfaces that are often underutilized or inaccessible for other purposes, such as recreation, tourism, or agriculture.
They exhibit higher efficiency compared to traditional land-based farms because they are cooled by the water and can track the movement of the sun.
Floating solar farms can also benefit the environment by reducing water evaporation, inhibiting algae growth, and preventing shoreline erosion.
If you are interested in innovations in the renewable energy sector, also read:
Hybrid Renewable Power Plants are those that combine different types of renewable energy sources, such as wind, solar, biomass, or water. The goal of this combination is to increase the efficiency and reliability of energy production, making it less dependent on weather conditions or time of day. Hybrid renewable power plants can also use energy storage systems, allowing them to store excess energy and utilize it during periods of shortage.
Advantages of Hybrid Renewable Power Plants include:
Reduction of investment and operational costs through shared infrastructure and equipment;
Reduced strain on the power grid and improved stability due to better alignment with energy demand;
Decreased greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution by using clean energy sources;
Increased energy independence and supply security through the diversification of energy sources.
Examples of hybrid renewable power plants are:
Photovoltaic Thermal (PVT) plants, which combine photovoltaic panels with solar thermal collectors;
Wind-Solar power plants, which combine wind turbines with photovoltaic panels;
Biogas power plants, which combine a biogas production installation with a biomass combustion installation.
Growth in Popularity of Hybrid Power Plants
Hybrid renewable power plants are becoming an increasingly popular solution worldwide as they address challenges related to energy transition and environmental protection. In Poland, hybrid renewable power plants are still in the development stage, but there are already initiatives and projects aimed at promoting and supporting them. The first hybrid renewable power plant in Poland is Kleczew Solar & Wind, combining solar and wind energy production. The EPC contractor for this project is Electrum Group.
Concept of Cable Pooling
One of the solutions implemented within the Polish legal framework to promote and support the development of hybrid renewable energy installations is the concept of cable pooling, which involves connecting at least two renewable energy sources to the same grid connection. This approach allows for savings on building new infrastructure and makes better use of existing resources.
Wind turbines are one of the most environmentally friendly and renewable sources of energy. However, to ensure their reliable and efficient operation, they require regular maintenance and servicing. Wind turbine service involves inspecting the technical condition, cleaning, lubricating, replacing worn parts, and repairing any damages. The goal of wind turbine service is to ensure the safety of personnel, protect the environment, and optimize energy production.
What does wind turbine service entail?
Wind turbine service should be performed by qualified and experienced specialists who possess the necessary qualifications and certifications. Wind turbine service should also be tailored to the individual needs and conditions of each turbine. Some of the factors to consider when planning wind turbine service include: the type and model of the turbine, the age and operational history of the turbine, the location and climate of the turbine, the frequency and intensity of the turbine’s load, and legal and regulatory requirements.
What are the benefits of wind turbine service?
Wind turbine service is not only necessary but also cost-effective. It extends the lifespan of turbines, reduces the risk of failures and downtime, increases energy efficiency, and lowers operational costs. Wind turbine service also contributes to improving the safety of personnel, reducing emissions of pollutants and noise, and increasing public trust in wind energy.
Therefore, wind turbine service is a key element in managing wind farms. Wind turbine service ensures the safety and efficiency of wind as a future energy source.
Solar power plants are among the most promising sources of renewable energy, helping to reduce carbon emissions and save on costs. However, to fully benefit from this technology, proper solar power maintenance is essential.
In this article, you’ll learn about:
The process of solar power maintenance,
Diagnostic systems that monitor the condition of panels, inverters, meters, and other components of solar installations,
Analytical systems that use sensor data to detect anomalies, forecast energy production, optimize system performance, and generate reports,
Security systems that protect the farm from intrusions, fires, surges, or mechanical damage using motion, smoke, temperature, and humidity sensors.
How does solar power maintenance and servicing work?
Managing photovoltaic farms requires continuous attention and specialized knowledge.
24/7 Control Center
We ensure continuous operation and quick response to potential failures. Our team of farm specialists monitors systems around the clock, and if irregularities are detected, a diagnostic procedure is immediately initiated. If possible, repairs are done remotely, allowing for rapid restoration of full functionality.
Preventive Maintenance
This includes regular technical inspections conducted on a monthly, semi-annual, and annual basis. These inspections help anticipate potential problems and ensure long-term efficiency of the installation. They are tailored to the client’s specific needs and comply with both manufacturer recommendations and construction law.
We offer comprehensive corrective repairs that restore equipment to its pre-fault condition. We also support our clients in warranty and insurance claims processes, preparing necessary reports, damage assessments, and identifying elements that may require future attention.
At Electrum, we ensure that every solar power plant operates flawlessly. Our O&M services provide peace of mind and the assurance that our clients’ investments are in good hands.
EMACS is a modern diagnostic system that revolutionizes power plant management. With EMACS, operational costs are reduced through continuous infrastructure monitoring and quick response to failures, often with the option for remote repairs. This system not only improves technological processes through automation but also provides detailed insights into the energy balance, which is crucial for industrial installations.
With EMACS, you reduce the risk of failures and increase safety thanks to comprehensive insight into energy production and equipment condition. Moreover, the system provides full control over the facility, is easily accessible from any device, requires no specialized infrastructure, and offers intuitive operation with customizable access management.
Solar power maintenance and network diagnostics with Centrix Evolution
Centrix Evolution, offered by Electrum, provides unparalleled precision and safety in locating and repairing power network faults. As the only modern measurement vehicle of its kind in Poland, Centrix Evolution uses advanced technology to efficiently inspect and service power grids, delivering the fastest and most accurate results while minimizing risk and costs.
Features of Centrix Evolution
Centrix Evolution is more than just fault location. With functions like IFL, ICE, and Decay, ARM® Multishot, ProRange, and MFM 10, this system enables full network diagnostics. Integrated with advanced software, Centrix Evolution provides comprehensive information about the technical condition of infrastructure, allowing for intelligent repair predictions.
Teleflex® Locator for solar power maintenance
With Teleflex®, a top-class locator, Electrum ensures precise fault localization, saving time and resources. Additionally, Centrix Evolution supports electrical endurance tests and HV diagnostics, offering services like tg delta diagnostics, cable route location using the Signal-Select® method, and MeggerBook – an intelligent database for optimal data management.
SCADA: The heart of modern solar power monitoring and service
The SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) system is a key element ensuring the professional management of photovoltaic farms by providing security, reliability, and performance optimization. As a central IT system, SCADA collects valuable data from various measurement and execution devices, enabling their visualization and effective control of production processes.
With SCADA, solar farm operators have access to real-time measurements, can visualize data in clear diagrams, charts, and tables, and can automate the energy production process. This system also allows for the archiving of historical data and the generation of detailed reports, which are invaluable for long-term analysis and optimization.
Quick response to irregularities
SCADA is indispensable for solar farms, as it provides comprehensive oversight of areas where the farms are located, as well as the operational parameters of the equipment. Detecting and alerting about irregularities, such as intrusions or exceeding alarm thresholds, allows for a quick response and minimizing damage risk. The SCADA system also enables remote control of the energy production process, adjusting operational parameters to current weather conditions and energy demand. This results in increased efficiency and quality of the energy delivered to the grid.
Solar power maintenance – Summary
By utilizing maintenance solutions, photovoltaic farms can not only increase efficiency and reliability but also reduce maintenance costs. This makes photovoltaic farms an even more attractive source of renewable energy for homes, businesses, and communities.
