The development of solar farms (PV) is crucial in the transition to renewable energy sources. However, each PV project carries certain risks that require effective management. In this article, we will examine risk management in solar projects, focusing on the most significant risks and strategies for minimizing them.
Weather Conditions: An Unpredictable Factor in Solar Farms
One of the biggest challenges in PV farm projects is variable weather conditions. Extreme phenomena, such as storms, hail, or prolonged rainfall, can significantly affect the efficiency and durability of solar panels. Therefore, it is essential to design farms considering the local climate and to use technology that can withstand extreme conditions.
Another important element is technology. The choice of appropriate solar panels, inverters, and mounting systems is crucial for the efficiency and longevity of the farm. Additionally, it is important to consider technical risks associated with new, untested technologies that may affect the reliability of the entire system.
Logistics and Project Management: The Key to Success
Logistics and project management are other areas where risks arise. Ineffective management of time, human resources, and materials can lead to delays and increased costs. Therefore, it is important to apply proven project management methods and ensure effective communication among all stakeholders.
Risk management in solar projects is a process that requires attention to many aspects — from weather conditions to technology selection, logistics, and project management. The key to success lies in understanding potential threats and effectively minimizing them, which will allow for optimal efficiency and profitability in renewable energy investments.
Thanks to technological advances, renewable energy sources (RES) are becoming increasingly accessible and affordable for the industry. In Poland, a total of 357,093 RES installations will be installed in 2022, of which 356,966 are photovoltaic installations. With the increasing demand for energy and the rising cost of fossil fuels, more and more countries are choosing to invest in RES. Renewable energy is not only an environmental issue. It is also an opportunity for economic development and energy independence.
Renewable Energy Market in Poland
In Poland, the RES market is one of the fastest growing sectors. In the context of the move away from the use of fossil fuels in industry, RES represent an alternative to traditional energy sources. RES in Europe are already able to deliver around 60% of the greenhouse gas emission reductions that will be needed to meet the net-zero target by 2050.
Planned Changes and Challenges
In Poland, the government plans to increase the share of RES in the energy mix to 23.5% in 2030. However, one of the most important challenges for RES is their variable performance, which depends on weather conditions. As the technology develops, more and more companies are investing in energy storage. It allows electricity to be stored for use at a later date.
Key Role of RES for Climate Goals
In summary, RES are an alternative to traditional energy sources and their development is key to achieving climate goals. In Poland, the RES market is developing rapidly. The government plans to increase their share in the energy mix.
The New Era of Energy Networks: What Will the Future Bring? Thanks to advances in technology, energy grids are becoming smarter and more sustainable. With the development of technologies such as automation and advanced metering systems, it is possible to optimise energy consumption, increase grid reliability and support renewable energy sources.
Intelligent Power Grids: Modern Solutions for the Future
Smart grids, or smart grids, are advanced electricity distribution systems. Through the use of modern technologies such as automation and advanced metering systems, it is possible to optimise energy consumption, increase grid reliability and support renewable energy sources. Smart grids help to manage energy resources in a more efficient and sustainable way, resulting in benefits for both consumers and the environment.
How will smart grids affect the future? Here are some examples:
Energy savings: By optimising consumption, smart grids allow for significant energy savings. It’s like finding extra money in your pocket that you didn’t know you had!
Increased grid reliability: Smart grids use automation technologies to control the flow of energy in real time. This reduces energy consumption during peak periods and increases energy availability when you need it most.
Support for renewable energy sources: smart grids enable the integration of renewable energy sources, such as solar panels and wind turbines, into the power grid. This makes it possible to increase the share of renewable energy in the full energy mix
Let’s Invest Together in the Future of Energy!
Intelligent power grids contribute to the sustainable management of energy resources, bringing benefits both to consumers and the environment. The implementation of these innovative solutions is crucial for achieving energy savings, enhancing network reliability, and providing effective support for renewable energy sources, shaping a promising future for the energy sector. It is therefore worthwhile to invest collectively in the development of these modern technologies to contribute to the sustainable and efficient management of energy.
Introduction to challenges in the wind energy sector
Wind farm construction is an ambitious task, combining technological innovation with advanced engineering. Every project in this field presents a range of challenges for contractors, from logistical to technical hurdles. In this article, we will explore how industry experts, using the example of a company known for its innovation, tackle these obstacles.
Logistics and Transport: the key to efficient construction
Transporting the massive components of wind turbines, such as blades and towers, requires a specialized approach. Companies like the one mentioned earlier implement innovative logistical strategies to minimize risks and reduce transport time. This ensures that even the most complex projects are executed smoothly and efficiently.
Dealing with natural conditions at the construction site
Weather and terrain conditions can significantly slow down progress. Specialists in this field employ advanced forecasting methods and adaptive construction strategies to effectively respond to changing conditions. Flexibility and the ability to quickly adjust are key traits that contribute to the project’s success.
Technological innovations in wind turbines: a competitive advantage
The continuous development of technology in the wind sector is inevitable, and leading companies are constantly implementing new solutions. From advanced turbine design to innovative assembly techniques, all of these contribute to building more efficient and reliable wind farms.
Effective project and team management
Coordinating multiple teams and managing complex projects present further challenges. Utilizing advanced project management techniques allows for smooth collaboration and ensures tasks are completed on time, which is critical to the success of any venture.
Challenges in wind farm construction: integrating knowledge and technology
Overcoming challenges in wind farm construction requires integrating knowledge, experience, and modern technology. Leading companies in this sector, through determination and innovation, contribute to the development of renewable energy sources, opening new perspectives for a sustainable energy future.
On December 12, 2023, Electrum Holding signs cooperation agreement with Gdańsk University of Technology. From now on, the organizations will work together to develop modern technologies for energy transformation and decarbonization of the economy, as well as the construction of a Climate Tech Hub for the Baltic Sea region. Professor Dariusz Mikielewicz, the Vice-Rector for organization and development, signed the document on behalf of the Gdańsk University of Technology. Electrum Holding was represented by Grzegorz Stanisławski, Vice President of the Board.
“It is important for universities, such as the Gdańsk University of Technology, and the industrial world to collaborate. We are signing this agreement at a crucial moment, as the COP28 conference in Dubai, dedicated to climate transformation, concludes today. We demonstrate that our global thinking also has a regional dimension – we want to act within the Baltic Sea area. Through the development of offshore, onshore, and new hydrogen technologies, we will create a new economic sector based on energy transformation and the development of technologies that counteract climate change,”commented Grzegorz Stanisławski.
The agreement provides for cooperation in the field of education on Climate Tech, development of modern technologies for energy transformation and decarbonization of the economy, strategies for building a Climate Tech Hub for the Baltic Sea region, CO2 emission reduction technologies, and optimization of energy transmission network infrastructure.
The signing of the agreement was preceded by a scientific symposium “Facets of Climate Tech in Energy Transformation and Climate Repair of the Baltic Sea Region – Challenges for Pomerania.” During the meeting, experts discussed challenges related to climate change and innovations that can contribute to combating them. Grzegorz Stanisławski presented a strategic perspective for the development of Climate Tech in the Baltic Sea region, and an innovative hydrogen project presentation by Prof. Krzysztof Kosowski and Paweł Olechnowicz highlighted the potential benefits of an isothermal hydrogen turbine.
The agreement opens new opportunities for cooperation between the scientific world and the industry, aimed at jointly creating innovative solutions that support environmental and climate protection through energy transformation.
About Electrum
Electrum Group is a leading Polish Climate Tech business based in Białystok, offering comprehensive solutions in the field of cutting-edge technology development, project construction, and management in the energy and information sectors. The technological maturity of its experts allows them to deliver products and services that respond to the evolving needs of the industry and businesses in line with the ongoing energy transformation. Electrum creates and implements solutions and builds projects based on the idea of an individual energy mix, striking a balance between the social and environmental responsibility of the business and its economic aspect.
The energy of tomorrowis one of the most importantchallengesfacinghumanity in the face of climatechange and increasingenergydemand. How to meetenergyneedswhilereducinggreenhousegasemissions and ensuringenergysecurity? What strategies and approaches can be employed to exploit the potential of renewable energy sources (RES) like solar, wind, hydro, or biomass? How to integrate RES intoexistingenergydistribution and storagesystems? How to use modern technologies and solutions to support RES in the management of facilitiessuch as wind and photovoltaicfarms?
Challenges of the Energy of tomorrow
The answers to thesequestionsare not simpleorstraightforward. Theyrequirecooperation and innovation on manylevels: political, economic, social, scientific and technological. Theyalsorequireawareness and involvement of all stakeholders: producers, distributors, consumers and energy regulators.
The Role of Renewable Energy Sources in the Global Energy Mix
In Europe and globally, we areseeinganincreasingshare of RES in the energy mix, driven by bothclimatecommitments and economic and socialbenefits. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), RES accounted for about 29% of globalelectricityproduction in 2020 and isexpected to reach 43% by 2030. In Poland, according to the Energy Regulatory Office, RES accounted for around 15% of nationalelectricityproduction in 2019 and areexpected to reach 23% by 2030.
Technologies Supporting the Development of Renewable Energy Sources
However, the development of RES also comes with many challenges and constraints. RES are typically distributed and variable, requiring adaptation of energy distribution and storage systems to ensure stability and quality. RES also require new technologies and solutions to enable efficient and intelligent management of RES facilities, such as wind farms and photovoltaic farms.
Such technologies and solutions include:
Hybrid systems, combining different energy storage technologies such as batteries, accumulators, electrolysers, fuel cells, compressed air or heat. Hybrid systems allow for increased efficiency and flexibility of energy storage, adapting to the changing nature of RES and consumer demand.
Energy management systems, using advanced algorithms, artificial intelligence, machine learning or the internet of things. Energy management systems allow the optimisation of energy production, distribution and consumption, taking into account market, weather, technical and environmental conditions. Energy management systems also enable the creation of local energy communities, where consumers can produce, store, exchange and sell energy from RES.
Monitoring and diagnostic systems, using sensors, cameras, drones, satellites and artificial intelligence. Monitoring and diagnostic systems allow remote and automatic tracking of the status and performance of RES facilities, detection and prevention of failures, planning and optimisation of maintenance and repairs.
Challenge and Opportunity
The energy of tomorrowis not only a challenge, but alsoanopportunity to build a sustainable, secure and equitableenergy system based on RES. To achievethis, cooperation and innovation on manylevelsisneeded, as well as the use of modern technologies and solutions to support RES in facility management. Only in thiswaycan we tackleclimatechange and ensure a betterfuture for us and ourchildren.
Energy Storage Systems on the Renewable Energy Market
Energy storage systems are becoming a key component in the revolution of the renewable energy market. For companies like Electrum, which specialize in solar solutions, solar energy storage systems open up new opportunities and transform how we utilize solar power.
In the following article, we will cover:
The revolution that energy storage systems have brought to photovoltaic technology in the renewable energy market.
The key advantages of these energy storage systems, as well as the challenges related to their selection and effective use.
The innovative MESH4U project, which addresses the growing need for optimizing energy storage and promoting sustainable energy sources on an international scale.
Comprehensive solar solutions offered by Electrum and their benefits for businesses and the environment.
Renewable Energy Instability: A Challenge for the Polish Energy Market
In the past decade, Poland has built thousands of wind and solar power plants with a combined capacity of over 24 GW. Unfortunately, renewable energy sources are characterized by significant instability due to seasonal wind patterns, sunshine mainly in the summer and only during daylight hours, and periodic droughts affecting river water levels.
Gravitational Energy Storage: An Innovative Solution
Gravitational energy storage systems could revolutionize the renewable energy market. These systems operate similarly to pumped-storage hydroelectric plants but replace water with steel blocks lifted by reversible electric motors using steel cables and pulleys. The main advantages of such storage systems are their consistently high efficiency and over 99.9% recyclability.
Energy storage systems are not only a means to balance electricity demand but also a tool for stabilizing power grids. During periods of overproduction, when demand is low, excess energy can be stored. When energy demand rises, storage systems can supply energy to the grid, helping to stabilize voltage and frequency.
Why Are Energy Storage Systems Crucial for Photovoltaics?
Energy storage systems are crucial for solar energy for several reasons:
Optimizing solar energy use: Energy storage systems allow businesses to store excess energy produced by solar panels during the day. This stored energy can be used later or during periods of insufficient sunlight.
Energy independence: With photovoltaic energy storage, businesses can become less dependent on traditional electricity suppliers, leading to greater energy independence and stability.
Cost savings: Although the initial cost of purchasing an energy storage system can be high, long-term savings can be substantial, especially for energy-intensive companies.
How to Choose an Energy Storage System for Solar Power Plant?
Selecting an energy storage system for solar power plant is crucial for effective use of solar energy. Consider the following factors:
Installation size: Take into account the size of the photovoltaic installation and the company’s expected energy needs.
Technology choice: There are various energy storage technologies. The right technology should match the client’s specific needs and requirements.
Cost vs. efficiency: When choosing an energy storage system, consider not only the price but also the efficiency and durability of the device to maximize investment returns.
Industrial Energy Storage and Its Impact on the Market
Industrial energy storage systems are becoming increasingly popular not only among photovoltaic companies but also in other industrial sectors. Their flexibility and ability to store large amounts of electricity make them a key element in building sustainable and efficient energy systems.
Impact of Energy Storage on Power Grid Stability
Energy storage systems can balance fluctuations in electricity production and demand. This is especially important for renewable energy sources, which are characterized by high instability.
Zero-Emission Direction: Energy Storage as a Key to Success
Energy storage systems enable increased connection capacities with minimal costs for expanding the power grid. This facilitates the transition to a zero-emission economy by increasing the share of renewable energy in the energy mix and phasing out conventional power generation. This should significantly reduce and stabilize energy prices in the country. The conclusion is clear: energy storage systems are a key element in the renewable energy revolution.
MESH4U Project
Electrum, in collaboration with partners, has introduced an innovative hybrid information-energy system that not only enhances the efficiency of electricity storage but also supports the balancing of renewable energy use. This solution stabilizes energy supplies for the Alu-forst manufacturing facility located near Białystok, which uses its own photovoltaic installation.
The MESH4U project, conducted as part of a European initiative in collaboration with the Fraunhofer Institute, Wrocław University of Technology, and other international partners, aims to ensure stable electricity supplies for other European factories.
One of the key benefits of implementing a hybrid energy-informatics system is reduced operational costs through optimized energy use and intelligent utilization of renewable energy sources.
Advanced algorithms and data analysis enable this solution to predict energy demand and manage production based on renewable energy availability. As a result, it contributes to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promotes effective use of green energy on an international scale.
Effective Energy Storage System
The MESH4U project also addresses key questions about effective energy storage, becoming increasingly significant in the context of the popularization of green energy sources.
Its international scope and alignment with European energy strategies make it a venture of not only local but also global importance. Co-financed by the National Centre for Research and Development, this project is an important step towards sustainable development and competitiveness in the energy sector.
Solar plus Storage Systems – A solution for the future
At Electrum, we understand the importance of providing customers with comprehensive photovoltaic solutions. Our photovoltaic installation schemes with energy storage are tailored to each client’s specific needs and requirements, ensuring optimal performance and savings.
With solar and energy storage system, a company can achieve new heights in sustainable energy production while contributing to environmental protection and reducing operational costs.
Explore our services for more information on our comprehensive photovoltaic solutions for businesses.
Need comprehensive renewable energy solutions? Let’s talk:
Green hydrogen refers to hydrogen produced using renewable energy sources such as solar or wind powerthrough the process of water electrolysis. Unlike traditional hydrogen production methods, which rely on fossil fuels, green hydrogen allows for the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and the carbon footprint. It is a step towards more sustainable and environmentally friendly hydrogen production, which can significantly contribute to combating climate change and reducing dependence on fossil fuels.
How is green hydrogen produced?
This exciting energy development is generated through water electrolysis, a process that uses electricity from renewable sources (RES), such as wind, solar, or biomass. During electrolysis, pure water is split into hydrogen and oxygen. The hydrogen produced in this way is green because it is not generated using fossil fuels, but rather renewable energy. This is a promising step towards a more sustainable energy future!
3 Advantages of green hydrogen
Green hydrogen, as a form of hydrogen produced using renewable energy sources, offers many benefits:
Cleanliness – Renewable hydrogen is clean and does not emit carbon dioxide or other greenhouse gases during combustion. This is crucial in the fight against climate change and environmental protection.
Versatility – Green hydrogen can be used in many fields. It can power vehicles, heat buildings, store energy, or serve as a raw material for producing other fuels such as ammonia or methanol.
High Energy Density – It is efficient because it has a high energy density. This means more energy can be stored and transported in a smaller space compared to other fuels.
Introducing green hydrogen into our energy ecosystem can contribute to a sustainable future and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Importance of green hydrogen production
The significance of green hydrogen production is crucial for many aspects of the global energy transition and the fight against climate change. It is considered one of the main pillars in achieving climate neutrality. The vision of a sustainable energy future assumes that green hydrogen can play a significant role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions by replacing traditional energy sources.
Challenges in renewable hydrogen production
The International Energy Agency (IEA) highlights that green hydrogen has the potential to cover up to 19% of global energy demand by 2050. However, to achieve this, several technical, political, and economic conditions must be met, including:
Continuous reduction of production and distribution costs of green hydrogen through the development and scaling of appropriate technologies, infrastructure, and markets.
Increasing investment and support from both the public and private sectors to enable large-scale development of green hydrogen projects.
Establishing common standards and regulations for the quality, safety, and sustainability of green hydrogen production and use at both national and international levels.
In this way, green hydrogen can become a strategic element of the future global energy infrastructure, contributing to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and the achievement of sustainable development goals.
Hydrogen Storage Tanks at a Wind Farm
Green hydrogen international – the fuel of the future in Global Energy
Renewable hydrogen is an innovative energy resource with the potential to change the face of global energy. Its production and use can have a huge impact on reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving the quality of life for people worldwide. As a company engaged in the Climate Techsector, we aim to set new standards in sustainable development and actively promote green hydrogen as a key element of the energy transition.
Electrum and the energy revolution
Our role as a participant in this energy revolution does not end with declarations – we are involved in practical actions that accelerate the development of green hydrogen infrastructure in Poland. We support innovative R&D projects aimed at improving the efficiency of green hydrogen production and distribution. Our partnerships, both nationally and internationally, allow us to collaborate with leading scientific institutions, technology companies, and governments to jointly develop green hydrogen infrastructure.
Summary – Is it worth investing in green hydrogen?
We are convinced that investing in green hydrogen is not only a step toward achieving climate goals but also an opportunity to create new jobs, develop modern technologies, and increase energy independence in many regions. Therefore, we strive to raise public awareness of the benefits of green hydrogen and promote its widespread use in various sectors of the economy.
Through our commitment to the development of green hydrogen, we aim to be a driving force in the energy transition, bringing real benefits both to the natural environment and society as a whole. We believe that green hydrogen is a key element in the fight against climate change and an essential component on the path to a sustainable energy future.
The Impact of Energy Efficiency on Industry and the Environment
Nowadays, with climate change becoming more apparent, energy efficiency is crucial for the future of our planet.
Energy efficiency is crucial for industry to reduce production costs and increase productivity. Implementing energy efficiency measures increases employees’ awareness of energy conservation and influences their attitudes towards environmental protection. Increasing energy efficiency in industry also has a positive impact on the environment by reducing greenhouse gas emissions. In the article ‘Monitoring energy efficiency – How technology affects RES’, we will discuss how modern technology affects energy efficiency in industry. In the article, we will outline how artificial intelligence and machine learning can contribute to energy efficiency in industry.
Benefits of Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency has many benefits for our planet and ourselves. Here are some of them:
Energy savings and cost reductions: Energy efficiency reduces energy consumption, leading to lower electricity and heating bills.
Improved efficiency of installations and appliances: With energy efficiency, equipment and installations operate more efficiently, leading to lower failure rates and a longer service life.
Increasing employee awareness of energy savings: Implementing energy efficiency measures increases employees’ awareness of energy conservation and influences their attitudes towards environmental protection.
Reduce environmental impact by reducing greenhouse gas emissions: Energy efficiency reduces greenhouse gas emissions, which contributes to environmental protection.
Increased revenue for the organisation through improved energy efficiency: Energy efficiency reduces costs and increases efficiency, leading to increased revenue for the organisation.
Renewable energy sources (RES) are a key element in combating climate change and meeting the growing demand for electricity. However, to realize the full potential of RES, it is not enough just to install more photovoltaic (PV) panels and wind turbines. They also need to be properly operated and maintained.
Wind farm maintenance
Wind farms consist of a number of wind turbines that convert wind energy into electricity. Wind turbines are exposed to a variety of weather conditions, such as wind, rain, snow, hail, ice or dust. These factors can affect the performance and life of the turbines, so it is important to check and repair them regularly. Some of the most common problems faced by wind farms are:
Blade damage: damaged blades can reduce the output of the turbines, increase noise and vibration and even pose a risk to people and the environment. Therefore, the condition of the blades should be checked regularly, appropriate protective coatings applied and repairs or replacements carried out as necessary.
Generator failure: the generator is the part of wind turbines that converts the mechanical energy of the rotor into electrical energy. The generator can fail due to overheating, short-circuit, bearing damage, contamination or wear and tear. Failure of the generator can cause an interruption of the energy supply, damage to other components or a fire. Therefore, the generator’s operating parameters such as temperature, voltage, current and resistance should be monitored and appropriate preventive and corrective measures applied.
Electrical and electronic faults: wind turbines are equipped with various electrical and electronic components. These components are susceptible to damage or failure due to surges, overloads, interference, moisture, corrosion or ageing. Electrical and electronic faults can cause grid instability, loss of power quality, loss of data or control and even explosions or fires. Therefore, it is important to regularly check the condition and function of electrical and electronic components, use appropriate protection and filtration, and carry out repairs or replacements as necessary.
Operation of photovoltaic farms
Photovoltaic (PV) farms are one of the most popular sources of renewable energy (RES) in the world. To ensure their high efficiency and reliability, regular and professional servicing of PV farms is necessary. The servicing of photovoltaic farms consists of a number of activities, such as:
Checking the technical condition of PV modules, inverters, cables and electrical protection.
Cleaning PV modules from dust, dirt, snow and other contaminants that can reduce their efficiency.
Detecting and rectifying faults, failures and malfunctions that can cause power drops, fires or risks to people and the environment.
Monitoring and optimizing PV farm operating parameters such as voltage, current, power, temperature and humidity.
Measuring and analyzing the performance and quality of the energy produced by the PV farm.
Complying with safety, environmental and grid standards and regulations.
Servicing PV farms requires the right equipment, knowledge and experience. It is therefore advisable to outsource these services to specialist companies with qualified personnel, certificates and insurance. This is the only way to ensure that RES equipment is serviced efficiently and that its many benefits are enjoyed.
The development of solar farms (PV) is crucial in the transition to renewable energy sources. However, each PV project carries certain risks that require effective management. In this article, we will examine risk management in solar projects, focusing on the most significant risks and strategies for minimizing them.
The Impact of Energy Efficiency on Industry and the Environment
Renewable energy sources (RES) are a key element in combating climate change and meeting the growing demand for electricity. However, to realize the full potential of RES, it is not enough just to install more photovoltaic (PV) panels and wind turbines. They also need to be properly operated and maintained.
