The World Needs Supergrids, But There's a Problem
Bloomberg Originals・2 minutes read
The grid needs to evolve for sustainable energy production as countries set high decarbonization goals, emphasizing efficient transmission of green energy. High-voltage direct current (HVDC) technology is favored for long-distance power transmission, with global cooperation seen as essential for achieving climate goals and investing in renewable energy infrastructure.
Insights
- Nikola Tesla's development of alternating current (AC) was pivotal in enabling long-distance electricity transmission, overcoming the limitations of Thomas Edison's direct current (DC) system.
- The emergence of high-voltage direct current (HVDC) technology, championed by companies like Siemens Energy and Prysmian, is crucial for efficient long-distance power transmission, reflecting a shift towards sustainable energy production and global interconnectivity.
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Recent questions
How does the grid impact sustainable energy production?
The grid, a system of cables and outlets, is crucial for powering our lives but needs to evolve for more sustainable energy production. Countries are setting high decarbonization goals, emphasizing the need for efficient transmission and distribution of green energy. The supergrid concept aims to connect nations for maximizing renewable energy usage globally, highlighting the grid's crucial role in promoting sustainability.
What was Nikola Tesla's contribution to electricity transmission?
Thomas Edison's direct current system was limited in range, leading to Nikola Tesla's alternating current innovation for long-distance electricity transmission. This innovation revolutionized the way electricity could be transmitted over long distances, paving the way for more efficient and widespread distribution of power.
Why is high-voltage direct current (HVDC) technology favored for long-distance power transmission?
High-voltage direct current (HVDC) technology is now favored for efficient long-distance power transmission due to its ability to transmit electricity over long distances with minimal energy loss. Companies like Siemens Energy and Prysmian play key roles in advancing HVDC technology, making it a preferred choice for transmitting power over vast distances.
How do interconnectors like ElecLink in Europe facilitate renewable energy sharing?
Interconnectors like ElecLink in Europe facilitate sharing surplus renewable energy between countries by providing a means to transfer excess green energy from one region to another. This helps in optimizing the use of renewable resources and promoting cooperation in achieving sustainable energy goals across borders.
What are some global initiatives for linking renewable-rich areas with energy-demanding regions?
Asia is exploring ambitious plans like the Asia Super Grid and China's proposal for a global grid, aiming to link renewable-rich areas with energy-demanding regions. These initiatives highlight the importance of global cooperation in harnessing renewable energy sources efficiently and meeting the energy demands of various regions sustainably.
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Summary
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Global Grid Evolution for Sustainable Energy Transition
- The grid, a vast system of cables and outlets, is crucial for powering our lives but needs to evolve for more sustainable energy production.
- Countries are setting high decarbonization goals, emphasizing the need for efficient transmission and distribution of green energy.
- The supergrid concept aims to connect nations for maximizing renewable energy usage globally.
- Thomas Edison's direct current system was limited in range, leading to Nikola Tesla's alternating current innovation for long-distance electricity transmission.
- High-voltage direct current (HVDC) technology is now favored for efficient long-distance power transmission, with Siemens Energy and Prysmian playing key roles.
- Interconnectors like ElecLink in Europe facilitate sharing surplus renewable energy between countries.
- Challenges in the US, like TransWest's 17-year struggle to build a wind power transmission line, highlight the complexities of grid expansion.
- Asia is exploring ambitious plans like the Asia Super Grid and China's proposal for a global grid, aiming to link renewable-rich areas with energy-demanding regions.
- Cooperation on a global scale is seen as essential for achieving climate goals, with a focus on investing in renewable energy infrastructure for a climate-neutral future.
