The green transition requires rethinking of our energy system, where we link the various elements of the energy system to create a smart system that is flexible while being robust and affordable.
Therefore, the smart energy system of the future that can provide flexibility and security of supply at an acceptable cost needs to be one that is well thought out and utilises every element of the energy system in the best possible way.
At Ramboll, we see the energy system as consisting of four energy carriers:
- the electrical system,
- the gas network,
- the district heating network and
- the district cooling network.
Traditionally, the four energy carriers are considered separate and have not been thought together. However, they are connected as different technologies brings us from one energy carrier to the other. Combined heat and power production can for instance bring us from the gas network to the electrical and district heating network, and a synthetic gas plant (so-called Power-to-Gas) can convert electricality to gas (e.g. hydrogen). Therefore, one energy carrier can be used as storage for another, and the four energy carriers can provide flexibility to one another.
In conclusion, a smart energy system requires a farewell to thinking in silos and a hello to a holistic view on how energy is produced, consumed and stored across the energy carriers.
Want to know more?
Tina Kramer Kristensen
Global Spearhead Director, Energy Systems
Featured Insights
Featured Insights
What are “scope 4” emissions and why should I care?
As if three scopes for greenhouse-gas emissions were not enough, conversations around scope 4 are beginning to pick up. In this article, our expert Laura Bowler gives you a crash course on these ‘newer’ emissions and helps you understand if they are right for your company.
How to tackle climate adaptation in our homes and buildings
The UK is starting to experience more extreme weather that climate science has been saying for decades, but now it is becoming more prevalent. Continuing to break new record temperatures, we must face the reality that our homes and buildings need to be better-equipped to mitigate sweltering temperatures. Our expert Andrew Mather shares ways to adapt homes and buildings.