#19 - Why balance and flexibility are key in a fossil-free future

Hello! In this issue: To meet its fossil-free goals, the EU must double its energy system's flexibility by 2030. From advanced battery storage to new vehicle-to-grid solutions – discover how we can make renewables like wind and solar more reliable. Plus: A hybrid park in Sweden shows the way forward for weather-dependent energy. And smart EV charging proves it can ease grid pressure by almost 50 per cent.

Rethinking the energy system / 5 min 

Why balance matters

What to know: Every second, energy is produced and consumed in countless ways around the world. But there’s no magic wand to ensure supply always meets demand. Renewable energy sources are the most efficient way to add new power production needed for the climate transition. At the same time, flexibility is essential to build a reliable, renewable energy system in balance. Technologies like smart meters, advanced battery storage, vehicle-to-grid solutions, and hydropower’s quick-response capabilities enable real-time adjustments to keep the grid in balance.

Why it matters: The transition to a fossil-free society isn’t just about adopting renewable energy – it’s about rethinking the energy system. The more we rely on renewables, the more important it becomes to adapt and collaborate. It’s about getting the entire system – from households to power grids and electric vehicles – to work together like a well-coordinated team.

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Agile algorithms / 4 min 

How hybrid parks are pioneering the future of weather-dependent power

Hjuleberg, Sweden, is home to one of Europe’s most advanced hybrid parks. Through a unique combination of wind power and battery storage, not only does the facility quickly adjust production to meet demand, it also delivers all critical support services to keep the grid balanced. This technology offers a promising solution for the future of weather-dependent power generation.

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Quick fact

Power-to-X (P2X) is the process of converting excess or renewable electricity into other energy carriers or chemical forms, such as hydrogen, synthetic fuels, chemicals like ammonia, methanol, or heat for industry and residential heating. Simply put, P2X connects electricity to the broader energy and materials system.

Great for the grid / 4 min

Smart charging: Powering down peaks eases grid pressure

Flexible EV charging can shift demand to quieter hours, cutting peak loads by up to 49 per cent and easing grid congestion. “Our research shows how essential smart charging can be for users, grid operators and the energy transition,” says Alied Wessels Boer, Director Vattenfall InCharge NL. 

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News flash

3 x quick updates from the energy world

The agrivoltaics effect

A new Australian study has looked at how solar parks affect sheep that graze nearby. Interestingly, the shade provided by solar panels improves the quality of the animals' wool. Not baaaaad. (theprogressplaybook.com)

Viva green Vegas!

Las Vegas is known for a lot of things, but sustainability isn't one of them. Until now, as Sin City has made substantial investments in water conservation, waste management and solar power. (bbc.com)

Insatiable AI

Sure, AI is great at answering questions and doing all manner of tasks, but what about the vast amount of energy it consumes? How will Big Tech power the revolution it started? (cnbc.com)

And finally ...

The presidential paradox: Musk makes US EV-future a little less murky

Donald Trump's return to the White House has prompted concern over the future of vehicle electrification. During his nomination speech in July of this year, Trump promised to "end the electric vehicle mandate on day one”. However, after being endorsed by Tesla founder Elon Musk, Trump may have changed his position on EVs, reports tech magazine Wired. At least a little bit.

Who should read this newsletter? Share it with anyone who would like a monthly update on the road to fossil freedom.

See you next month!