How do we accelerate industrial electrification?
During this event, we proudly launched Plexar Energy and our new website. The conference was filled with engaging discussions on industrial electrification strategies shared by DFDS, Svitzer, DSV, Valdemar Birn, and Schulstad, as well as input on grid infrastructure and technological advancements such as BESS, AI, and grid inverters.
Dr. Jan Rosenow started the discussion with “Is Denmark the poster child of Energy transition?” while addressing the viability of large-scale electrification. We’ve only seen the tip of the iceberg when it comes to electrification. Electrification of two main sectors will decrease CO2 emissions and create an enormous demand of electricity which will be difficult to cover without adding more resources.
Stine Grenaa, Energinet, added to the discussion, emphasizing that electrification has great potential. To enable it, we must work together for a stronger grid, better connections, and faster implementation. Karsten Plauborg, Plexar Energy, also highlighted how microgrids can support and balance the current and future grid. Sara Vad Sørensen, Danfoss, added, “We need to look ahead and consider the technologies present, as well as strategically plan for coming advancements, while also optimizing energy efficiency and the reuse of excess heat. The reuse of excess heat can significantly reduce energy consumption and environmental impact“.
Combining the industrial aspect with grid experts and regulatory understanding, while hearing how it all comes into play in companies electrifying, raises questions on how we can enable industrial electrification through microgrids, decentralized power systems, regulatory incentives, and tariff structures. Svitzer and DFDS both highlighted that to enable electrification, first and foremost, we must be able to meet the demand for power for onshore operations. Other benefits of electrification include a better work environment. Switching from conventional vehicles to electric vehicles not only lowers pollution in daily work but also reduces noise, creating a healthier work environment.
Sofie Irgens, Schneider, summed up three key challenges for industries trying to electrify:
1) CAPEX investment,
2)Access to power,
3) tariff structure & regulatory incentives
If the five key industrial speakers were to choose between the three and have the solution ready in the blink of an eye, they agreed that access to the power needed to drive their operations with electricity, preferably green, would be the key priority.
