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We use the Internet of Things (IoT) in almost every aspect of our lives, with smart technologies increasingly taking into account how we live and communicate. This is even more true in the renewable energy sector, where we are witnessing rapid changes in the way technology is used. Better energy systems and smart grids are giving more people access to sustainable energy and changing how and where they power their homes, cars and appliances.
In this space, I’ll talk about nine smart technologies that are changing renewable energy today. I’ll also dive into their benefits and how they’re changing the way we think about renewable energy.
1. Artificial intelligence (AI) and big data
AI helps network management with predictive maintenance for real-time decision making. Artificial intelligence can help predict energy consumption while finding ways to better distribute it, improving overall efficiency. It can also analyze large amounts of data to optimize energy production and consumption, reduce waste and costs while empowering customers.
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2. Distributed Energy Storage Systems (DESS)
DESS solutions include batteries that store excess energy and ensure reliable supply even during intermittent production. Technologies such as lithium-ion and flow batteries help stabilize the grid and provide backup power, increasing the performance of renewable energy systems.
3. Intelligent networks
Advanced power grids use digital communication technology to detect local changes in electricity consumption. They reliably manage different energy sources, redirect energy during peak times, and at the same time support decentralized generation. Smart grids enable efficient energy distribution, improve overall grid stability, and help provide more consumers with access to reliable renewable energy.
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4. Green hydrogen
Green hydrogen acts not only as a storage medium, but also as an effective energy carrier. This sustainable fuel option, which uses renewable energy sources, plays a key role in storing excess energy and offers a cleaner alternative. With its growing applications and advancements, green hydrogen is paving the way for a more diverse, dynamic and green energy ecosystem.
5. Virtual power plants (VPP)
Virtual power plants are innovative solutions that allow the integration of different renewable energy sources such as solar panels and wind turbines to work together as a single power plant. By facilitating this integration, VPPs play a vital role in enhancing grid stability, optimizing energy distribution and promoting sustainable energy practices. This not only supports a low-carbon economy, but also supports the implementation of effective climate mitigation strategies, ultimately benefiting communities and the environment as a whole.
6. Intelligent converters
Smart inverters convert the DC output of solar panels into AC electricity and control the flow of energy between the grid and the renewable source. They are equipped with advanced monitoring capabilities that enable real-time adjustments to maximize power generation and grid stability. By increasing the reliability and efficiency of solar systems, smart inverters optimize energy conversion and distribution.
Related: This CleanTech IoT Startup Develops Smart Power Solutions
7. Advanced photovoltaics
Technological innovations in photovoltaics (PV) increase efficiency and reduce the impact on land use and minimize the ecological footprint. New developments such as thin-film cells and perovskite materials continue to help meet the growing energy demands in urbanized areas.
8. Automatic cleaning of solar panels
Technologies such as Electrodynamic Screens (EDS) automatically remove dust from solar panels without the use of water, preserving their efficiency while conserving water resources. Automated cleaning systems ensure that solar panels operate at maximum output with minimal maintenance.
9. Cloud platforms for energy management
Energywell’s Proton is a cloud-based energy management platform that provides end-to-end solutions for energy retailers and other stakeholders. Proton analyzes meter data and real-time renewable energy consumption, streamlines operations, emphasizes customer experience and focuses on sustainability, enabling providers to effectively engage customers and support scalable growth.
Smart technologies and their impact on renewable energy sources
Smart technologies are revolutionizing the renewable energy sector by increasing the efficiency and stability of energy systems. Using tools like artificial intelligence, we can monitor and manage energy production and consumption in real-time to ensure smooth operations.
This technology provides consumers with detailed information about their energy consumption, making it easier for them to control consumption. Increased transparency builds trust and encourages more people to adopt renewable energy solutions. The development of smart technologies plays a key role in our global shift towards sustainable energy, making it more affordable and reliable.
The combination of renewable energy and smart technology is changing the way energy is produced and used. Advances in this area help promote energy efficiency, reliability and user-friendliness. This integration helps improve current systems and drive innovation across the industry.
By incorporating advanced IoT technologies such as AI, smart grids and energy storage solutions, we are laying the foundations for a sustainable future that is resilient to challenges such as climate change. These developments are essential to ensure clean and reliable energy supplies for future generations, while creating a smarter and more adaptive energy ecosystem that benefits us all.