172. The new age of Energy Security, Flexibility, and Resilience (with Eurelectric)
Mar 17, 2025
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Kristian Ruby, Secretary General of Eurelectric, is an expert in energy security and sustainable systems. He shares gripping tales from his visit to Ukraine, where power engineers keep crucial services running during air raids. The podcast dives into energy security challenges fueled by geopolitical tensions, cyber threats, and extreme weather. Kristian also highlights exciting advancements in E-Mobility, particularly Vehicle-to-Grid technology, and discusses the shift towards a resilient, clean electricity future that benefits consumers and communities alike.
The ongoing conflict in Ukraine exemplifies the urgent need for energy security and the resilience of engineers maintaining critical infrastructure amid threats.
Advancements in E-Mobility, particularly Vehicle-to-Grid technology, offer financial benefits and flexibility to consumers while enhancing overall grid stability.
Deep dives
Resilience in a War Zone
Visiting Ukraine revealed the severe impact of the ongoing conflict on the energy infrastructure. Engineers at a power plant continue to work under the constant threat of bombardments, demonstrating remarkable resilience and determination amidst daily alarms and the destruction of their facility. The scene highlighted the stark contrast between the humanitarian crisis and the workers' normality, as they went about their duties even while being bombarded. This situation underscores the urgency for energy security in war-torn areas and highlights the dedication of those maintaining critical services.
Redefining Energy Security
The recent report on energy security stresses a shift in Europe's reliance on fossil fuels due to changing geopolitical landscapes. Historically, Europe enjoyed cheap fossil fuel supplies and security, but recent conflicts have necessitated a new approach focused on electricity and renewable energies. This approach includes electrifying societal functions while ensuring the reliability of the electricity system, which now must adapt to various new threats like cyber attacks and extreme weather. Key strategies should involve diversifying energy sources, enhancing system resilience, and adopting advanced technologies to secure energy supply.
Integrating E-Mobility with Energy Systems
The potential of electric vehicles to stabilize the electricity grid represents a significant opportunity for modern energy systems. By leveraging vehicle-to-grid technology, electric cars can act as backup batteries providing energy during peak demand times, benefiting both the grid and consumers financially. However, implementation requires changes such as making more vehicles compatible with this technology and establishing appropriate frameworks for incentivizing participation. This will ease the transition to a more flexible energy system, ultimately enhancing resilience and cost-effectiveness for consumers.
Laurent welcomes Kristian Ruby, Secretary General of Eurelectric, to discuss Energy Security, Resilience and Flexibility though the impact of E-Mobility.
Energy Security has become a critical issue, especially with the recent sabotage of undersea cables in the Baltic Sea by Russian and Chinese vessels, extreme weather events knocking out a third of the Irish Grid, and Russia’s ongoing attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure.
Kristian shares the story of his harrowing visit to a power plant in Ukraine, where DTEK engineers are bravely working through air raids every day to keep the lights on. The conversation expands to cover all aspects of Energy Security as we enter the Age of Electricity, exploring both cyber and physical measures that can be taken to protect energy systems.
The discussion also touches on the latest advancements in E-Mobility, including how Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) technology can provide additional security and offer consumers a chance to earn more revenue.
Eurelectric represents a strong, forward-thinking industry that exemplifies resilience and solidarity in the face of challenges.