As the world shifts towards renewable energy, innovative solutions are emerging to optimize energy generation, storage, and distribution. One such innovation is cable pooling, transforming offshore wind into multi-use energy parks. This blog dives into the concept of cable pooling, the challenges faced by these energy parks, and the crucial role Dynamic subsea cables play in these systems.
What is cable pooling?
Cable pooling is a method of integrating multiple renewable energy sources, like wind, wave, and solar power, into a single infrastructure. By allowing different energy sources to share the same cables, it maximizes the use of existing cabling systems. This reduces the need for additional infrastructure and allows for a cost-effective diversification of energy supply. Essentially, cable pooling ensures that energy produced is efficiently transmitted and utilized, Which helps with the inherent intermittency of the supply of renewable energy sources. In practical terms, cable pooling enables nearby wind and solar parks to connect smartly.
What are multi-source energy parks?
Multi-use energy parks are innovative spaces that combine various forms of renewable energy production along with other sustainable activities such as aquaculture and maritime logistics. These parks are not just about generating energy; they represent a holistic approach to utilizing maritime and land resources to balance energy supply with demand and promote environmental sustainability.
For a practical illustration of such parks, the Crosswind project at the IJmuiden Ver site provides an exemplary model. This initiative demonstrates the integration of various renewable technologies on a scale that can be adapted for different environments. Explore more about this and other innovations on Crosswind's innovations page.
Challenges multi-source energy parks face
Managing different voltages from various energy sources is a primary challenge in multi-source energy parks. Existing infrastructure often operates at different voltages than new energy sources, necessitating power transformation to ensure compatibility. This requires sophisticated switchgear and additional cable hang-off points to accommodate diverse energy inputs.
Another significant challenge is the harsh environmental conditions offshore, including saltwater corrosion, extreme weather, and strong ocean currents, which can impact the durability and performance of cabling systems.
Benefits of cable pooling
Cable pooling offers several benefits to multi-source energy parks:
- Efficiency: Utilizing existing infrastructure minimizes the need for new cables, reducing installation costs and environmental impact.
- Flexibility: Integrating various renewable energy sources enhances overall variety and stability of energy supply.
- Energy Storage: Offshore batteries can store excess energy generated during high production periods, like windy or sunny days, and release it when production is low.
- Electrification of Offshore Maintenance: Innovations such as electric crew-transfer vessels, which can recharge using pooled energy, help reduce the carbon footprint of offshore maintenance activities.
The critical role of high-quality cables for cable pooling
Cabling systems are the backbone of multi-source energy parks, crucial for transmitting power and data between different technologies on the platform and to the shore. Given the harsh marine environment, these cables must be exceptionally durable and resilient.
High-quality cables are essential for efficiently transmitting energy from various sources to the grid. They must handle different voltage levels and ensure seamless power flow between generators' storage systems and the grid. Marine environments pose unique challenges, including exposure to saltwater, extreme weather conditions, and strong ocean currents, requiring cables to be highly durable and flexible to withstand constant movement and pressure.
Cable pooling transforms multi-source energy parks
Multi-source energy parks represent a transformative step in the renewable energy sector, offering a multidimensional approach to energy generation and utilization. Cable pooling plays a pivotal role in this transformation, optimizing the use of existing infrastructure and enhancing the efficiency of energy production and storage. Continuous innovation in cable technology is crucial for overcoming the challenges posed by marine environments, ensuring the durability, efficiency, and safety of these systems. As we advance the global renewable energy agenda, integrating multiple energy sources through cable pooling will be key to achieving a sustainable and resilient energy future.
Designing the perfect cable for this type of application takes a lot of work. In this blog, we explain the 4 essential steps to transform data into durable deep-sea cable designs
