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.
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.
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.
Solar farm construction is a unique endeavor that provides society with clean electrical energy and contributes to environmental protection. At the same time, it’s an investment whose profitability continues to grow.
We invite you to watch a video about one of our projects – PV Gryf solar farm:
Step-by-Step Guide to Building a Photovoltaic Farm
Monitoring and Maintenance of Photovoltaic Farms
Investment in Photovoltaic Farm Construction
Renewable Energy EPC Contractors
In Brief
The key stages of building a solar farm include designing, site preparation and foundations, installation of photovoltaic panels, and electrical connections and testing.
In the design phase, important steps include planning the layout of panels and inversion systems, integration with other systems, obtaining permits and complying with regulations, and selecting the solar farm’s location.
Technological advancements in PV panels are increasing the profitability of photovoltaic farms. The construction process of a photovoltaic farm can take anywhere from a few months to several years, depending on the scale of the project, location, weather, and other factors.
The benefits of building photovoltaic farms are immense, both economically and environmentally.
Let’s start by taking a closer look at PV panels.
Photovoltaic panels, also known as PV panels, are the fundamental component of solar farms. They are often one of the highest costs in the investment.
How exactly do they work, and why is the progress in their efficiency so important?
Photovoltaic technology is based on harnessing solar energy to generate electricity. PV panels contain silicon solar cells that convert sunlight into electricity.
Advances in this technology include increased efficiency in converting solar energy into electrical power. New panels are more efficient, allowing for greater energy production from the same amount of sunlight.
Stages of Solar Farm Construction
Solar farm design
The preparation of a solar farm design is a crucial step in the entire project. Planning the layout of panels and inversion systems is essential.
Attention must also be paid to integrating various energy systems within the farm to ensure everything operates smoothly. When creating a solar farm design, it is necessary to consider regulatory and permitting issues.
Designing solar farms also requires analyzing the location. The choice of the farm’s location affects the amount of available sunlight and the efficiency of the panels. Therefore, it is essential to thoroughly examine the geographical and climatic conditions to select the optimal site for the farm.
We have extensive design experience and conduct processes to prepare renewable energy facilities for the Ready to Build stage.
Step-by-Step Guide to Building a Photovoltaic Farm
After the design process is completed, we move on to the construction of the photovoltaic farm. This process involves several key steps.
Site Preparation and Foundations
The construction of a photovoltaic farm begins with preparing the site where the PV panels will be installed. It is essential to clear any obstacles and prepare the land for installation. Foundations are crucial as they provide stability to the photovoltaic panels. They must be properly reinforced and adapted to the local conditions.
Installation of Photovoltaic Panels
Next, we proceed with the installation of the photovoltaic panels. The panels are mounted on the foundations in the appropriate layout to maximize the use of available sunlight. The installation process is carefully monitored to ensure the stability and efficiency of the system.
Electrical Connections and Testing
After the panels are installed, the next phase involves electrical connections and testing. The panels are interconnected and connected to the inversion system, which converts direct current (DC) into alternating current (AC), suitable for residential or industrial use. Testing is essential to ensure that the entire system operates correctly.
Monitoring and Maintenance of Solar Farms
Once the construction of the farm is completed, it is crucial to monitor its performance and conduct routine maintenance and servicing.
Monitoring systems enable continuous oversight of the photovoltaic panels’ operation. In case of failures or issues, a quick response is possible. Routine maintenance includes cleaning the panels and checking their technical condition.
The construction time of a solar farm depends on factors such as:
The scale of the project and the capacity of the photovoltaic farm,
Location and regulations,
Weather conditions,
Chosen technologies and methods,
Efficiency and experience of the general contractor.
As Electrum Holding, a general contractor for solar farms and other renewable energy facilities, we have completed numerous projects. Below, you’ll find out how long it took to build some of the photovoltaic farms we’ve delivered:
Przykona Solar Farm – just over a year
Krzywińskie Solar Farm – approximately 9 months
If you’re looking for a photovoltaic farm contractor with a rich portfolio, get to know us better!
One cannot overlook the benefits that photovoltaic farms bring. Savings on energy costs are one of the main arguments for investing in the construction of photovoltaic farms. The sun is a free source of energy, and photovoltaic panels allow for its efficient harvesting. This means lower electricity bills for farm owners and potential profits from surplus energy that can be sold back to the grid.
The environmental benefits of building photovoltaic farms are equally important. Photovoltaic farms are environmentally friendly because they do not emit carbon dioxide or other harmful substances into the atmosphere. This significantly reduces the impact on climate change and improves air quality.
Investing in Solar Farm Construction
The cost of building a solar farm depends on factors such as:
Size and Capacity of the Farm: A large photovoltaic farm will require more solar panels, support structures, inverters, and other equipment, which will impact costs.
Location of the Farm: Land costs, availability of energy infrastructure, permit fees, and differences in labor costs can vary significantly depending on the location.
Technology and Equipment: The selected PV panels, inverters, and other components of the photovoltaic farm affect construction costs.
Availability of Materials: Prices for construction materials can vary depending on the region and may change over time.
Labor Costs: Costs associated with hiring workers to install panels and perform other tasks related to the construction of the farm.
Other Factors: Such as project management costs, insurance, costs related to connecting the farm to the energy grid, etc.
Innovations and the Future of Solar Systems
The latest innovations in the field of solar power plants include increased efficiency of photovoltaic panels. New panel technologies allow for more efficient use of sunlight, which increases the overall efficiency of solar farms. Additionally, thin photovoltaic layers are being developed, which can be flexible and easier to install. This opens up new possibilities in the design and use of PV panels.
Challenges and Solutions in Photovoltaic Farm Construction
Solar farm construction construction may encounter various challenges. One of them is obtaining the necessary permits and adhering to regulations concerning renewable energy projects. In some regions, this process can be complicated and time-consuming. Obtaining permits and selecting the location of a solar farm are crucial factors that should be handled with the help of specialists.
Another challenge is managing photovoltaic farm projects. Coordinating the actions of multiple teams, procuring materials, meeting delivery deadlines, and maintaining high safety standards are important issues that need to be considered.
Solar Energy Contractors
Collaborating with an EPC contractor for renewable energy projects (RES) offers many advantages. EPC contractors have extensive experience in designing, building, and managing photovoltaic farms and other renewable energy projects. This allows investors to benefit from expert knowledge, increasing project efficiency and minimizing risk.
Solar energy contractors also handle comprehensive project management, meaning investors can focus on their core activities while specialists take care of all technical and logistical aspects of the project.
Building solar farms is not only economically beneficial but also contributes to environmental protection. The development of photovoltaic technology, investment in renewable energy sources, and collaboration with EPC contractors for renewable energy projects are key factors in building the future of sustainable energy. Photovoltaic farms represent an important step towards more eco-friendly and efficient energy production.
1. What are the main benefits of building solar power plants?
The main benefits of building solar power plants include energy cost savings, the production of clean energy, the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, improvement of air quality, and potential profits from surplus energy that can be sold back to the grid. For investors, this also means a stable source of income.
2. Are solar farms profitable in all regions?
Solar farms can be profitable in many regions, especially where there is abundant sunlight. However, the farm’s efficiency depends on location and climatic conditions. Therefore, a thorough analysis of the site and project is essential before constructing a farm.
3. What are the latest technological innovations in solar panels?
The latest innovations in photovoltaic technology focus on increasing the efficiency of converting solar energy into electricity. New panel technologies allow for more efficient use of sunlight. Additionally, thin photovoltaic layers are being developed, which are more flexible and easier to install.
4. What does it mean to be an EPC contractor for renewable energy projects?
EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction) contractors for renewable energy projects are specialized solar farm construction companies that manage renewable energy projects, including solar, wind power plants, and more. Collaboration with an EPC contractor allows investors to benefit from expertise and professional project management.
5. What challenges might arise during the solar farm construction?
Solar power plant construction can face various challenges, including obtaining the necessary permits and complying with regulations for renewable energy projects. The construction contractor is responsible for executing multiple stages of the project. Coordinating the efforts of multiple teams, procuring materials, meeting delivery deadlines, and maintaining high safety standards are crucial issues. Collaboration with an EPC contractor for renewable energy projects can help effectively manage these challenges.
In the face of climate change and the growing need for efficient energy utilization, building RES (Renewable Energy Sources) has become a crucial element in the transformation of the energy sector. Modern technologies like Climate Tech open up new horizons in energy generation, contributing to the creation of a sustainable future.
RES Construction – hybrid, wind and solar farms
One of the main trends in the development of alternative energy is the solar farm construction. PV panels enable the conversion of solar energy into electricity, reducing our dependence on fossil fuels. However, they are not the sole source of clean energy. The construction of wind farms and wind power plants harness the power of the wind to produce electricity, becoming increasingly efficient and accessible.
From design to construction completion
To implement RES projects, it is crucial to engage a general contractor for RES and a general contractor for power grids. They play a key role in planning, designing, and implementing the infrastructure that enables the efficient utilization of renewable energy.
After RES construction – management of renewable energy facilities
It’s important to remember that building RES is not just about physical infrastructure but also about the maintenance and servicing of existing solutions. Solar power maintenance and wind turbine maintenance are an integral part of the RES ecosystem, ensuring the uninterrupted operation of installations and their long-term efficiency.
As technologies become more advanced, comprehensive technological solutions allow for more effective management and monitoring of RES systems. Companies offering comprehensive business solutions in the field of energy and comprehensive energy solutions provide tools that support sustainable development and energy management.
In summary, building RES and developing energy systems based on renewable energy sources are crucial steps towards a sustainable future. They open up new horizons in energy generation, contributing to the reduction of CO2 emissions and the protection of our natural environment. Therefore, investing in RES-related projects and utilizing comprehensive technological solutions is a significant contribution to building a more eco-friendly and sustainable future.
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.
A charitable balloon filled with music will once again rise into the air over the most charming areas of Podlasie as part of the Second Flying Ambient Salon campaign. The project’s goal is to support the Prophet Elijah Hospice Foundation, which takes care of improving the lives of seniors. Those willing to support the campaign and experience a unique flight in the air with the sounds of Ambient still have a chance to participate in a special online fundraiser.
The unique formula of the Flying Ambient Salon combines unforgettable experiences offered by a balloon flight with an artistic feast for music lovers. The event is organized for the second time. Last year, thanks to the generosity of donors, the organizers of the campaign raised over 20,000 PLN, which was donated to the Give Children Strength Foundation.
In this year’s edition of the Flying Ambient Salon, we want to draw attention to the fact that by taking care of the future of our planet, it is worth remembering the people who took care of it in the past. For this reason, we have decided that the entire amount collected as part of the campaign will go to the Prophet Elijah Hospice Foundation. We are delighted that, just like last year, we can collaborate with the Up To Date Festival in such a noble cause, and an extraordinary artist from the domestic Ambient scene, known as Botanica, has also joined our efforts,– says Agata Kalinowska, Brand Business Partner at the Electrum Group, the organizer of the event.
The Second Flying Ambient Salon will be realized with the participation of a producer and DJ hiding under the pseudonym Botanica. Botanica creates relaxing ambient music, sometimes interspersed with rhythmic tracks bordering on dub techno and house. The artist is an enthusiast of field recordings, which he uses in his compositions and publishes on his Bandcamp profile. His recordings appear in film productions, during yoga classes, in relaxation and meditation apps, and as the musical background of design exhibitions. So far, Botanica’s productions have been released by labels such as MOST, Father And Son Records & Tapes, Dom Trojga, and Neoviolence. The artist’s recordings are available online on his profiles at https://sayyestobotanica.bandcamp.com/ and https://soundcloud.com/thisisbotanica.
“We are delighted that, as the Up To Date Festival, we have the opportunity to co-create the Second Flying Ambient Salon. In the past, we undertook various activities for seniors. We painted murals, organized intergenerational dances – it’s easy, light, and enjoyable to talk about it, but it’s not easy to talk about those who are slowly leaving us. Together with Electrum, we take on this challenge and invite you to help. Let’s remember the generations that were here before us and to whom we owe a lot,” – says Jędrzej Dondziło, co-creator of the campaign and Program Director of the Up To Date Festival.
People interested in participating in a visual and musical feast during a balloon flight over Narwia and Knyszyn Forest can still take part in the online fundraiser at https://zrzutka.pl/6zy4h9. The event is planned for September 25, 26, 27, and 28, depending on the weather. The launch is expected at around 4:00 PM. The campaign can also be supported in other ways, such as purchasing attractive “bricks,” for example, a yoga lesson.
About Electrum
The Electrum Group is a leading Polish Climate Tech business headquartered in Białystok, offering comprehensive solutions in the latest technology for the development, construction, and management of projects in the energy and information sectors. The technological maturity of its experts allows it to provide products and services that meet the changing needs of the industry and business as they evolve with the ongoing energy transformation. It creates and implements solutions and builds projects based on the idea of an individual energy mix, maintaining a balance between the social and environmental responsibility of business and the economic aspect.
