APT Translations

Onsite power generation at remote locations presents an attractive business case for many renewable energy companies but at the same time requires considerable market introduction efforts, says Dr. Thomas Hillig.

Michael Ryley discusses the apprenticeship levy and how it could kickstart an influx of fresh talent into the renewable energy sector.

If it can be made to work at scale and cost-effectively the predictability of tidal power gives it a significant advantage over wind and solar PV technologies. Gail Rajgor takes a look at the latest project developments in the sector.

While tidal stream technology is seen as closer to commercial viability, tidal lagoon (tidal barrage) projects arguably could make an even bigger impact on electricity supply networks in the nearer term, says Gail Rajgor.

In light of the wind sector’s rapid expansion, Philip Buchan at Cyberhawk Innovations explains the safety issues being faced in the field of operation and maintenance, and explores the innovative technology that could ensure safer inspection of wind farms while maintaining quality and keeping costs low.

In order to meet emission reduction targets, the challenge to engineers to develop clean, reliable energy technologies has never been so pressing. With the global potential for grid energy storage by 2017 expected to account for 185GWh (52GW) of capacity, renewable energy technologies such as wind and solar power both offer potential solutions but the unresolved issue has always been consistency of supply and how to store power generated for use at a later date.

A recent round table discussion focused on the challenges and opportunities currently facing the environmental sector. As a participant in the discussion, Alex Zachary shares some of the key points that were raised at the meeting, including the need for more government intervention in relation to energy policy and the potential repercussions Brexit could have for the industry.

Lauren Callaway at Navigant Research delves into the smart city market and discusses what it means for the renewable energy sector.

The UK’s smart meter roll-out programme has already started. But there are only around 2 million meters installed to date, and a total of 53 million must be installed in homes and small businesses by 2020. The government, and more than 30 energy suppliers are tasked with placing these meters, and they’re facing a race against time.

In the second part of her series, Rachel Parkes contemplates what’s next for Japan’s power industry and considers whether renewable energy could play a bigger part in its future.