Renewable energy sources (RES) are becoming an increasingly important component of the Polish and European energy systems. Their development is beneficial not only to the environment but also to the economy and society. However, RES also have certain limitations, such as dependence on weather conditions, variability in production, and low utilization of transmission infrastructure. To overcome these barriers and increase the efficiency and stability of RES, new and innovative solutions are needed. One such solution is cable pooling.
What is cable pooling?
Cable pooling is the sharing of energy infrastructure between different RES, such as wind and solar power plants. It involves using the secured transmission capacity allocated to one power plant to initiate another energy generation source in the same location. This way, available resources can be better utilized, and energy losses minimized. Cable pooling is particularly cost-effective when combining sources with different operating profiles, such as photovoltaics and wind. This can provide greater stability and reliability in energy supply, as different sources can complement each other depending on weather conditions and demand.
What are the benefits of cable pooling?
Cable pooling has many advantages, both for investors and the energy system. Some of these include:
Reduction in investment and operational costs – sharing transmission infrastructure can reduce the costs of building and maintaining new lines. Moreover, better utilization of transmission capacities can avoid or limit the need to pay fees for imbalance or for reserving power.
Faster development of RES projects – by using existing connections, new RES projects like wind or solar power plants can quickly obtain construction approval and become operational. This accelerates the energy transformation process and increases the share of RES in the energy mix.
Increased efficiency and stability of the energy system – cable pooling can better utilize available RES resources and reduce energy losses. Furthermore, by combining sources with different operating profiles, reliability and stability of energy supply can be increased, reducing the risk of power outages and ensuring greater system flexibility in responding to changes in demand and supply.
Minimization of environmental impact – sharing transmission infrastructure can reduce the negative environmental impact often associated with building new lines. It can also limit greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution by increasing the share of RES in energy production.
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.
A power grid contractor is an entity that specializes in the comprehensive implementation of investments related to the construction and modernization of power grids. The general contractor provides its clients with services at every stage of the project, from technical and economic analysis to obtaining the necessary permits and approvals, through to construction and installation work, as well as maintenance and facility management.
Key Areas of Activity for General Contractors in Power Grids
One of the primary areas of power grid contractors activities is:
Solar and wind farms are alternative sources of renewable energy (RES). Photovoltaic and wind farms are installations that harness solar energy and wind to generate electrical power. They are increasingly chosen by investors due to their ecological, economic, and social benefits.
Key Responsibilities of the Power Grid Contractor
The construction of photovoltaic and wind farms requires power grid contractor to have the appropriate knowledge and experience in terms of:
design,
equipment selection,
installation,
and grid connection.
The General Contractor for Power Grids must also ensure the safety and quality of the work and comply with legal and regulatory requirements. Some of the key tasks of power grid contractors include:
Conducting a location analysis, considering climatic conditions, infrastructure availability, and energy potential (In this article, you will learn how to choose the best location for solar panels?).
Developing the technical and business concept of the project, including the choice of optimal technology, capacity, and scale of the farm.
Preparing project documentation, including negotiating grid connection terms with the system operator.
Obtaining the necessary permits, approvals, and administrative decisions, including environmental, construction, and energy-related.
Carrying out earthworks, foundation work, road construction, and other necessary tasks to prepare the land for farm construction.
Delivering, assembling, and connecting photovoltaic modules (PV panels) or wind turbines to the grid, along with the necessary electrical equipment and automation.
Conducting tests and technical acceptance of the installation, including power and energy quality measurements.
Handing over the farm to the investor or operator for operation.
After the construction…
After the construction of a photovoltaic or wind farm is completed, GWSE can also provide servicing and maintenance services for the installation. These services include:
Monitoring the operation of the farm using remote monitoring and control systems.
Performing periodic technical inspections and equipment maintenance.
Repairing any faults or malfunctions in the installation.
Optimizing the operation of the farm to increase its energy and economic efficiency.
Summary
The tasks of the General Contractor for Power Grids are diverse and demanding. GWSE must possess high technical, organizational, and legal qualifications, as well as flexibility and adaptability to meet the needs of the client. Only in this way can GWSE ensure the highest level of investment implementation and contribute to the development of the RES sector.
Alternative Energy as a New Path in Energy Production
Alternative energy is a field that is gaining popularity as the climate crisis advances. Alternative energy systems, such as the solar farm construction and wind farm construction, are becoming increasingly common to meet the demand for electrical power.
Alternative Energy and RES
Renewable energy sources (RES) are a key component of alternative energy. Among them, photovoltaic farms and wind farms stand out. The construction of photovoltaic farms involves the installation of PV panels that convert solar energy into electrical energy. PV panels are becoming more efficient and cheaper to produce, making them increasingly popular. Wind farm construction involves the installation of wind turbines that convert the kinetic energy of the wind into electrical energy. Wind farms are particularly effective in regions with strong winds.
Climate Tech
Alternative energy is a crucial component of Climate Tech – technologies aimed at combating climate change. Unlike traditional energy sources such as fossil fuels, RES do not emit greenhouse gases and do not contribute to global warming. Furthermore, RES are unlimited and available worldwide.
Challenges for Alternative Energy
One of the challenges for alternative energy is the lack of stability in the energy supply. In the case of photovoltaic and wind farms, energy is only produced when weather conditions are appropriate. To address this issue, it is necessary to develop new technologies for storing electrical energy.
Renewable Energy Systems as a Solution to Problems
In summary, alternative energy is a new path in electrical energy production. Alternative energy systems, such as the construction of photovoltaic and wind farms, are a key element of this field. RES are unlimited and available worldwide, and they do not emit greenhouse gases. One of the challenges for alternative energy is the lack of stability in the energy supply, but the development of new technologies for storing electrical energy can help address this issue.
Climate Tech refers to modern technologies that aid in combating climate change. Among these are alternative energy systems, which are essential for a sustainable future.
Alternative energy encompasses various technologies, such as the solar farm construction or wind farms construction. These power plants use renewable energy sources like the sun and wind to generate electricity. Thanks to them, we can reduce our dependence on fossil fuels and contribute to environmental protection.
Remember, Climate Tech technologies are our future. With their help, we can create a world that is sustainable and safe for future generations.
Climate Tech Trends
Climate Tech technologies in the power industry also cover a wide range of innovations aimed at combating climate change. The future of the power sector looks promising, focusing on creating more sustainable and efficient energy systems. Below are some key trends.
Accelerating the Development of Renewable Energy Systems
As technologies become more advanced, renewable energy sources like solar and wind power are becoming more efficient and accessible.
Phasing Out Fossil Fuels
As the world strives to reach net-zero emissions, fossil fuels are gradually being phased out in favor of cleaner energy sources.
Expanding the Power Grid
To meet the growing demand for energy, power grids must be expanded and modernized.
Decarbonizing Industry
Industry is one of the main sources of carbon dioxide emissions, so decarbonization is crucial to achieving climate goals.
Power Electronics
Power electronics play a key role in converting voltages and currents from one level to another, which is essential for the efficient use of energy.
Engineering Innovations
Breakthrough engineering discoveries, such as perovskite solar cells, solid-state batteries, nuclear energy, and smart grids, are shaping the future of the energy sector.
All these trends aim to create a more sustainable and efficient future for the power industry.
Nearly 308,000 double-sided photovoltaic panels will generate enough energy to power over 100,000 households annually. The Przykona photovoltaic farm will be the second-largest installation of its kind in Poland, but with the potential to increase its capacity by an additional 40 MW, it has the potential to become one of the largest photovoltaic power plants in Central and Eastern Europe.
Solar farm construction lasted for over a year, with nearly 500 people working on the construction site during peak periods. The project has a total installed capacity of 200 MWp and will generate approximately 220 GWh annually, thus avoiding the use of traditional fossil fuels to produce the same amount of energy.
The Przykona Power Plant will also prevent the emission of over 208,000 tons of CO2 annually. It was installed on the site of a rehabilitated brown coal mine and covers an area of 270 hectares, equivalent to 375 soccer fields. This new photovoltaic power plant in the Przykona municipality represents a significant step in the development of renewable energy in Poland. The project, created in collaboration with EDP Renewables, is an excellent example of effective energy infrastructure implementation.
During the project, we made every effort to propose optimal and modern solutions to our partner, which will allow for the full utilization of the facility’s potential during its operational phase and add value to the investment. The Przykona PV photovoltaic farm is not the first project that Electrum has completed for EDP Renewables, and we hope it won’t be the last. We feel that in EDP Renewables, we have found a partner who shares our vision of a sustainable future and takes concrete actions towards building a green energy system – says Tomasz Taff from the Electrum Group.
The Przykona PV solar farm is another milestone in our collaboration with EDP Renewables, demonstrating our commitment to building a sustainable energy future.”
Renewable energy sources (RES) are those that harness natural processes occurring in the environment, such as wind, sunlight, water, biomass, and geothermal energy. RES are increasingly popular and desirable because they offer numerous advantages over traditional energy sources like coal, oil, and gas.
Advantages of Renewable Energy Sources
Some of the benefits of RES include:
Environmentally friendly: They do not emit harmful greenhouse gases or other pollutants that contribute to global warming and climate change.
Renewable: They are inexhaustible and available regardless of geopolitical situations or raw material prices.
Diverse and flexible: They can be adapted to different geographical conditions and energy needs.
Economically beneficial: They create new jobs, stimulate technological innovation, and reduce dependence on energy imports.
Main Types of Renewable Energy Sources
Wind Power: Wind farms utilize the kinetic energy of the wind to drive turbines that generate electricity. They can be located onshore or offshore, depending on location and wind conditions.
Solar Energy: This involves using solar radiation to produce heat or electricity, often through photovoltaic panels. Solar farms are one of the cheapest and fastest-growing RES worldwide.
Hydropower: Uses the potential or kinetic energy of water to drive turbines or generators. Energy can be harnessed from rivers, lakes, oceans, or waves, and is one of the oldest and most reliable RES.
Biomass: Involves using organic material from plants or animals to produce heat, electricity, or biofuels. Biomass can come from agricultural, forestry, municipal, or industrial waste.
Geothermal Energy: Uses the heat stored within the Earth’s crust for heating, cooling buildings, or generating electricity. It is one of the cleanest and most stable RES since it doesn’t depend on weather conditions or seasons.
RES in Global Energy Production
Renewable energy is a key direction in the development of global energy. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), the share of RES in global electricity production is expected to grow from 29% in 2020 to 43% in 2030 and 60% in 2050. Achieving these goals requires investments, policies, and cooperation at local, national, and international levels.
Alternative Energy Examples
RES has great potential for development in the field of alternative energy. This term encompasses various forms of energy production, distribution, and consumption that differ from the traditional fossil-fuel-based and centralized energy networks. Examples include:
Microgrids
Local energy systems that can operate independently or in conjunction with the main grid. Microgrids use RES, energy storage, and smart technologies to provide reliable and efficient energy access.
Hydrogen Economy
A vision where hydrogen, produced using RES, is the main energy carrier, which can be stored, transported, and used for various purposes like powering vehicles, heating buildings, or supplying industry.
Prosumers
Individuals or entities that both produce and consume electricity. Prosumers can install their own RES, such as solar panels or wind turbines, and sell excess energy back to the grid or share it with others.
Benefits of Alternative Energy
Alternative energy offers numerous benefits for society and the environment, including:
Enhancing energy security and reducing dependence on foreign energy suppliers.
Lowering energy costs and reducing energy poverty.
Improving air quality and public health by reducing pollutant emissions.
Supporting the development of local communities and economies by creating jobs and income.
Accelerating the energy transition and combating climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Comprehensive RES Solutions
To fully exploit the potential of alternative energy, comprehensive RES solutions are needed. These integrate various technologies, services, and stakeholders within a sustainable energy system. This requires innovation at multiple levels:
Technology: Developing new or improving existing RES technologies, such as higher-efficiency photovoltaic panels, quieter wind turbines, or batteries with greater capacity.
Business: Creating new or adapting existing business models, such as equipment leasing, participation in energy communities, or offering energy management services.
Policy: Implementing new or modifying existing regulations and taxes, such as setting energy tariffs, subsidies for investments, or energy origin certificates.
Society: Building new or strengthening existing social and cultural relationships, such as citizen engagement, ecological education, awareness, and cross-sector cooperation.
Wind farm construction represents a significant step towards sustainable and eco-friendly development. It is one of the clear indicators of the energy transition, becoming an increasingly visible element in the landscape.
Table of Contents
Wind farm development: Value for the Future
Wind Farm Construction: 5 Key Aspects
Stages of wind farm development
Cost of Wind Farm Construction
Comprehensive Energy Solutions
Technology and Alternative Energy
Wind Farms Built by Electrum
This article focuses on:
The wind farm development process and its significance for modern energy systems.
Discussing key aspects of wind farm construction, including location, legal and regulatory aspects, financial analysis, environmental impact, and social acceptance.
The article also outlines the key stages of wind farm construction and discusses the costs associated with such a project.
Additionally, it highlights the importance of comprehensive energy solutions and the innovation in technology that drives wind farm development.
It presents examples of wind farms built by the Electrum Group and summarizes the importance of wind farm development for sustainable development and environmental protection.
A wind energy project construction is a highly advanced process that requires modern technology and the involvement of specialists. A key step is choosing a renewable energy EPC contractor with expertise in comprehensive energy solutions. Such a partner ensures the efficient execution of the wind farm project from start to finish.
Wind Farm Construction – 5 Key Aspects
When considering wind farm installation, there are five key aspects that every investor should take into account:
Location: The area selected for wind farms is a decisive factor as wind conditions must be optimal for efficient energy production.
Legal and Regulatory Aspects: Understanding local regulations regarding the construction and operation of turbines is crucial for obtaining construction permits.
Financial Analysis: Necessary for assessing the project’s profitability, including initial costs, potential returns, and payback period.
Environmental Impact: Requires a detailed assessment to minimize negative effects on local flora and fauna.
Social Acceptance: Gaining the support of the local community can be crucial for the success and long-term sustainability of the wind farm.
Understanding these aspects is essential before making a decision to invest in green energy.
What does the wind farm construction process look like step by step? It’s a complex process that requires careful planning and execution. Here are the key stages:
Location Selection: Finding a site with suitable wind conditions.
Environmental and Acoustic Studies: Assessing the farm’s impact on its surroundings.
Obtaining Permits: Navigating the legal and administrative process.
Infrastructure Construction: Preparing the site, access roads, and foundations.
Grid Connection: Integrating the farm with the energy system and beginning energy production.
How much does a wind farm cost to build?
Building a wind farm is an investment that can bring significant benefits for both the environment and the economy. However, the costs associated with such a project vary depending on factors like location, technology, and project scale. According to the latest data, the cost of building an onshore wind farm in Europe is around €1.3 million/MW. In Poland, these costs are slightly higher, estimated at around 6.8 million PLN/MW. Nonetheless, investments in wind energy are becoming increasingly profitable, thanks to decreasing technology costs and increasing turbine efficiency. Moreover, wind farms generate renewable energy, contributing to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and supporting the fight against climate change.
Comprehensive Energy Solutions
Comprehensive energy solutions are a key aspect of the wind farm installation process. They include the design, construction, and maintenance of the wind farm, as well as its integration with the existing energy infrastructure. These solutions make wind farms an integral part of modern energy systems.
The innovation in technologies such as PV panels and modern wind turbines plays a crucial role in the development of wind farms. The #ClimateTech area is constantly evolving, contributing to the efficiency of alternative energy.
Wind Farms Built by Electrum
Electrum, as a renewable energy EPC contractor, plays a significant role in the development of wind farms in Poland. Our experience and advanced technologies allow us to build efficient and modern wind farms that meet the growing demands of the energy market. Wind farms built by Electrum are characterized by high efficiency and are examples of successfully combining innovation with environmental care.
Wind farm construction Summary
Wind farm construction is a crucial element in the development of modern energy systems. Thanks to comprehensive engineering solutions and the use of the latest technologies, wind farms contribute to increasing the share of renewable energy in the global energy mix. Investments in these solutions promote sustainable development and environmental protection.
