Arnhem Electricity Week

Peter Vaessen, Innovation Director at KEMA Laboratories and a professor at Delft University, dives into the future of electricity grids. He discusses Tesla's impact on our current systems and highlights the shift towards renewable energy and electric vehicles. The conversation also covers the transition from manual to digital power systems, addressing the efficiency gains and potential instabilities of modern technology. Vaessen emphasizes the need for skilled labor and innovative robotics to overcome challenges in grid expansion and ensure a sustainable energy future by 2050.

Mark Huijben, a Professor at Twente University and an expert in battery technology, discusses his cutting-edge research and collaboration with industry leaders. He emphasizes the crucial role of batteries in the renewable energy transition, exploring innovations such as sodium-ion technologies. The conversation covers the complexities of integrating battery systems into the energy market and highlights the significant impact of recycling in promoting sustainability. Join this insightful dialogue on the future of energy storage!

Maarten Steinbuch, a pioneering professor at the Technical University of Eindhoven and expert in electric mobility, discusses the thrilling future of transportation with Danny Oosterveer. They delve into the imminent transition to electric travel by 2040, including smart charging solutions and its impact on energy grids. Steinbuch highlights the rise of regional air mobility through sustainable aviation, and the potential for battery electric flying. He also emphasizes the importance of collaboration in the electric aircraft sector to drive innovation and standardize infrastructure.

In this engaging discussion, Susanna Almeida - de Graaff, an expert in energy grid stability, delves into the complexities of integrating renewable energy sources into our power infrastructure. She highlights the challenges of managing the volatility tied to weather-dependent electricity generation and the need for flexible resources. Susanna also outlines the critical infrastructure improvements required to achieve a carbon-neutral energy system by 2050, emphasizing the significance of offshore wind initiatives and political collaboration for a sustainable future.

Prajeev Rasiah, Executive Vice President at DNV, discusses the urgent need to enhance our electrical grids for renewable energy. He emphasizes technological advancements and collaborative efforts to achieve an ambitious 80% renewable integration by 2050. The conversation also covers the critical role of energy storage, particularly lithium-ion batteries, in maintaining grid stability. Additionally, Rasiah highlights the importance of international cooperation and standardization to tackle issues like grid congestion across Europe.

Eamonn Lannoye, Managing Director at the Electrical Power Research Institute, discusses the critical challenges of grid operations during the shift to renewable energy. He delves into net congestion and its impact on electricity flow, emphasizing real-time monitoring strategies. The conversation also covers the integration of electric vehicles and the complexities of various electricity market mechanisms in Europe and beyond. Eamonn highlights the need for collaboration and innovative technologies to ensure energy security and facilitate a sustainable energy transition.