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ROBERT REINIUS: PACE WILL VARY BY ECONOMY Electricity powers modern societies, driving economic growth and improving quality of life. Many developing regions with lower GDP per capita lack consistent electricity access and addressing this energy gap is crucial for economic development. Investing in this infrastructure and energy generation baseline first is a vital step to developing the economy to be in a position to invest in renewable energy sources. The ideal approach balances immediate energy needs with a sustainable energy future. Prioritising electricity access, then investing in renewable energy, and promoting efficiency ensures a world where everyone benefits from the power of energy. significant technological, infrastructural, and geopolitical challenges. However, the ongoing advancements and strategic initiatives in the electrical ecosystem provide a promising outlook. By leveraging innovative technologies, modernising infrastructure, and fostering international cooperation, the global community can achieve a sustainable and carbon-neutral future. time, degradation, and recycling need to be addressed. Similarly, the potential of solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) in stationary energy storage and their scalability highlights their importance in the future energy mix. Energy systems integrators (ESIs) will play a pivotal role in managing the complexities of this evolving ecosystem. By designing and implementing integrated solutions, ESIs will ensure that renewable energy sources are effectively harnessed and that the grid can handle increased variability and demand. Geopolitical factors and energy security considerations add another layer of complexity to the transition. Ensuring a stable and diverse energy supply, while balancing regional and national priorities, will be crucial. The role of reciprocating engine-powered rotating electrical machines in enhancing energy security cannot be overlooked, as they offer flexibility in fuel use and reliability in power generation. Sector-specific insights, particularly in data centres, marine, and telecoms, underline the tailored approaches required to meet the unique energy demands and sustainability goals of different industries. In conclusion, the path to net zero is marked by
ALASTAIR MCQUEEN: CHANGE WILL TAKE TIME Different governments have different environmental policies: Japan and Korea are going down a very focused hydrogen path because they don’t have access to lots of fossil fuels (the two countries have announced plans to join forces on the procurement of clean hydrogen and ammonia from overseas to cut costs and ensure supply [24] ); North America has plenty of natural gas; Africa has plenty of solar; Britain has plenty of wind [25] . It’s more difficult to see how we get alignment. Start factoring in local and city policies and it becomes incredibly difficult to navigate through. There’s also a danger of pushback from society as some schemes will be seen purely as money-making rather than good for the environment. Change will most likely be led by cities stopping the sale of internal combustion engine cars. Off-highway tends to follow about five to seven years behind and with slightly different targets. I also think we will see some kind of carbon-based taxes being introduced, for example, to operate a ship in certain waters or for trains to enter a civic area.
Appendix [1]
Source: http://www.un.org Source: https://afdc.energy.gov
[2]
Source: Bloomberg/NEF
[3]
Source: http://www.ec.europa.eu
[4]
[5] Source: https://publications.parliament.uk [6] Source: https://dieselnet.com [7] Source: https://www.epa.gov [8] Source: https://theicct.org [9] Source: https://www.fleetlogistics.com [10] Source: https://afdc.energy.gov [11] Source: https://www.mtu-solutions.com
[12] Source: https://antoraenergy.com [13] Source: https://www.pwc.com [14] Source: https://hydrogencouncil.com [15] Source: www.se.com [16] Source: Uptime Institute Report Global Datacentre Survey 2022
[17] Source: https://journal.uptimeinstitute.com [18] Source: https://journal.uptimeinstitute.com [19] Source: https://www.imo.org [20] Source: https://www.weforum.org [22] Source: https://eng.yidaiyilu.gov.cn [23] Source: https://commission.europa.eu [24] Source: https://www.suncable.energy [25] Source: https://www.theguardian.com
POWERLINE Winter 2025 | 35
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