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greenhouse gas emissions and adopt cleaner energy sources, they must also ensure their energy supplies are reliable, affordable and sustainable. A secure energy system with a diverse mix of renewable energy sources can reduce reliance on imported fossil fuels, which are often subject to price volatility and geopolitical tensions. Investing in distributed energy resources and grid modernisation can enhance the resilience of the electricity system, making it less vulnerable to outages and disruptions. In turn, a stable and predictable energy supply can foster economic growth. However, there are challenges in balancing energy security and decarbonisation, from the cost of building the necessary infrastructure to support renewable energy and energy efficiency measures to engaging with communities and addressing concerns about renewable energy projects. Reciprocating engine-powered rotating electrical machines can play an important role in improving energy security, thanks to their ability to generate electricity The role of data centres is to ensure mission-critical applications never go offline. They achieve this through layers of redundant electrical infrastructure, including uninterruptible power supply (UPS) systems and emergency backup generators. Due to the high amount of energy they require for computing performance and cooling, data centres are reliant on an energy-efficient, reliable electricity supply. However, operators are also keen to supply their data centres with energy in environmentally friendly ways. Renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, can be used to generate electricity for data centres. However, these sources are intermittent, so they need to be paired with energy storage technologies such as batteries and/or flywheels. Data centres need to be able to operate reliably even in the event of a power outage. This means the back-up power system needs to be highly resilient. This can be achieved by using multiple generators and energy storage devices, and by designing the system to be redundant. In North America and Europe, about three-quarters of data centre operators believe nuclear energy should either play a core long-term role in providing grid power or is necessary for a period of transition. [16] Solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs), which generate electricity from a variety of fuels. Future Applications The Data Centre Sector
acceptance and support for renewable energy projects and grid infrastructure upgrades is essential to address concerns about land use, environmental impacts and community disruption. Policy and regulatory frameworks: Clear, consistent and long-term policy and regulatory frameworks are needed to provide investors with certainty and encourage the development of renewable energy projects and grid modernisation initiatives. International cooperation: International cooperation and collaboration are crucial to facilitate technology transfer, knowledge sharing, and financing support for developing countries to transition to low-carbon energy systems. Addressing these challenges effectively will require a concerted effort from governments, industries, research institutions and civil society. The Role of Energy Systems Integrators Energy systems integrators (ESIs) are companies that specialise in designing, installing and managing complex energy systems. They work with a variety of stakeholders, including utilities, renewable energy developers and consumers to develop and implement integrated solutions that meet the needs of all parties involved. In the context of the European energy transition, ESIs will be responsible for several key tasks, including: n Designing and installing new renewable energy infrastructure, such as solar and wind farms. n Upgrading the existing power grid to accommodate increased demand for electricity and distributed generation. n Developing and integrating new energy storage technologies. n Managing the grid in a more efficient and flexible way to accommodate the variability of renewable energy. n Schneider recently launched a home energy management solution [15] that includes a home battery for clean energy storage, a high-power solar inverter, a smart electrical panel, electric vehicle charger and connected electric sockets and light switches, all controlled by the Schneider Home app. Systems integrators will also be needed to develop and implement new market models that support the transition to a clean energy future. For example, they may be involved in developing and operating energy trading platforms or designing and implementing new regulatory frameworks. Geopolitics and Energy Security Energy security plays a crucial role in the transition to a low-carbon global economy. As countries strive to reduce
32 | Winter 2025 POWERLINE
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