Elektrovation seeks new solutions to challenges in the electricity grid

In the green transition, there are demands for increased electrification to replace fossil fuels in transport and production, and green energy from solar and wind continues to grow in the energy mix. How much these types of energy can deliver is affected by weather, at the same time the electricity grid needs to be able to deliver electricity in a steady stream.

"We need to strengthen the electricity grid so that it is able to handle production falls and take care of the energy generated when the supply of solar and wind is good. Overcoming these peaks and troughs is an example of research that is required to develop new solutions so that we can meet the needs of the future," says Kent Bertilsson, professor of power electronics at STC, who is leading the project.

Today, hydropower and nuclear power take care of the regulation, but more capacity to store and distribute if the energy is needed when solar and wind power take place in the system.

Identify needs for developing solutions

The project begins with a feasibility study with a focus on mapping the needs, creating networks and initiating collaborations. The next step involves investigating, developing and testing different solutions together with electricity producers and electricity network companies that enter into the collaboration. Recently, various stakeholders gathered in a joint workshop to identify the needs.

"It is the companies that know what challenges they are facing. We want to give them the opportunity to work with us researchers to investigate relevant issues and develop solutions to these challenges," Kent Bertilsson describes.

There are three levels of cooperation. It can be about gaining access to networks and events around Elektrovation. Companies can raise a specific issue and explore it together with STC. It is also possible to have a deeper collaboration where a funded industrial doctoral student linked to STC works at the company and investigates challenges and works with solutions on site.

"We have experience of very successful collaborations where an industrial doctoral student has been involved in the activities to contribute to the development of the activities. The hydropower company Sollefteåforsen is an example where the industrial doctoral student has investigated and developed in the field of energy storage. Of course, we hope that more companies will take that chance," says Kent Bertilsson.

New knowledge is necessary

A representative from the industry association Energiföretagen has also participated in the workshop to identify needs.

"There is a lot to gain from collaboration for both companies and Mid Sweden University. It provides a valuable opportunity for companies to gain new knowledge and experience of research and development from Mid Sweden University. We have major challenges in the energy system that need to be solved, and companies also need to further educate and recruit employees to meet the challenges of the future. So there are many benefits," says Lena Heldén, an expert in education and skills development at Energiföretagen. 

Sundsvall's electricity network also participated and sees that the project has the potential to contribute to the necessary new knowledge and development to meet challenges in the future.

"We need the help of research to find solutions that work for the electricity market. This is an area where we do not currently have a ready-made solution for how to handle both automation and how to regulate the production and consumption of electricity," says Sundsvall Electricity Network's CEO Göran Sorell.

Five focus areas in the project

The project's goal is to contribute to the effective integration of electrical energy in society. Five different themes are in focus:

• Electricity generation
• Distribution
• Electric Aviation
• The technology of the future
• Electrification in general