The global energy landscape is undergoing a seismic shift – a global energy crisis. Amid these turbulent times, renewable energy emerges as a beacon of hope, and capacitors play a pivotal role in ensuring its reliability and efficiency.
What’s happening in the global energy market?
In recent years, the world has faced a formidable challenge: the first truly global energy crisis. This crisis has been escalated by disrupted supply chains, adverse weather conditions, underinvestment in energy infrastructure, and geopolitical events, notably Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The interconnected nature of the global economy has magnified the impact of these issues, making the energy crisis a global concern.
Previously, gas was expected to play a key role as a bridge between fossil fuels and renewable energy sources. Now, the reliability of natural gas is being questioned. Prices for liquefied natural gas (LNG) have stabilised, and major oil companies expect lower revenues from LNG in the future. Analysts believe that with less market volatility and too much LNG supply, prices will keep dropping.
Adding to these economic changes, the United States has once again left the Paris Agreement, which will cause shifts in international climate policies.
The International Energy Agency (IEA) notes that the ongoing energy crisis could serve as a catalyst for a broader adoption of renewable energy, much like the 1970s oil shocks spurred advancements in energy efficiency and alternative energy sources. IEA has published action plans to cut oil use and help Europe reduce its reliance on Russian gas.
Countries around the world are now focusing more on renewable energy, with wind and solar power leading the way. For example, the European Union has introduced rules to store more gas and set ambitious targets to reduce gas and electricity use by improving efficiency and using more renewable energy.
Tackling the energy crisis: The role of capacitors in renewable energy systems
A critical yet often overlooked component in this transition is the capacitor.
Amidst this shift, capacitors have emerged as critical components in the renewable energy ecosystem. Unlike traditional batteries, capacitors store energy electrostatically, allowing for rapid charging and discharging. This unique capability makes them essential for stabilizing power grids and managing the intermittent nature of renewable energy sources.
Capacitors play a crucial role in high-voltage direct current (HVDC) transmission systems. They are essential for ensuring the efficient and reliable operation of these systems, which are increasingly important for integrating renewable energy sources and connecting power grids. Especially wind power plants are highly dependent on reliable, high-quality capacitors.
HVDC capacitors must be able to withstand high voltages and handle high currents without overheating. Since these systems are designed to operate for decades, the capacitors should have a long lifespan to reduce maintenance and replacement costs.
High reliability and energy efficiency to low energy losses are also extremely important features of capacitors to ensure the continuous operation of HVDC systems. Wind and solar power plants are often located in remote locations by the sea or in the middle of rural areas, which usually makes maintenance work relatively expensive and hard. In locations like this, the highest possible quality of capacitor film is extremely important.
Key considerations for HVDC capacitors:
- High voltage rating
- High current capability
- Low losses
- Long operating life
- Reliability
Excellent endurance and durability of capacitor films support the growth of renewable energy
As the world navigates the complexities of the current energy crisis, integrating capacitors into renewable energy systems presents a promising avenue for enhancing grid stability and efficiency. These technological advancements are crucial for meeting immediate energy demands and paving the way towards a sustainable and resilient energy future.
Tervakoski Film’s capacitor films are essential components in HVDC renewable energy systems, enabling efficient and reliable power conversion and transmission. Our focus on quality, innovation, and sustainability makes us a key partner in the transition towards a cleaner energy future.
