Hvor skal strømmen komme fra, når vinden ikke blæser?

Summary

The video explores the challenges of wind energy production in Denmark, highlighting the inconsistency between energy supply and demand. It discusses periods of both overproduction and inactivity of wind turbines, illustrating how this leads to inefficiencies, such as shutting down turbines during peak wind conditions. The video introduces innovative energy storage solutions, including thermal energy storage using heated stones and potential hydrogen production, while emphasizing the need for larger, more efficient storage systems. Ultimately, it questions which energy solutions are economically viable and who will fund their implementation as Denmark transitions to a fully renewable energy future.

Takeaways

• 🌬️ Wind turbines in Denmark sometimes produce excess energy, leading to instances where they must be turned off despite high production levels.
• 📈 Energy demand in Denmark peaks during mornings and evenings, with significant increases during winter and holidays.
• ⚡ The variability of wind energy means that supply often does not match demand, creating periods of both surplus and deficit.
• 🌀 On a record day in September, Danish wind turbines produced 130% of the daily energy needs, resulting in negative electricity prices.
• 🔥 One innovative energy storage solution involves heating rocks to 600 degrees to store excess energy for later use.
• 🔋 Energy storage methods discussed include thermal storage, mechanical energy, chemical energy (like hydrogen), and superconducting energy systems.
• 🏔️ Mechanical energy storage, such as elevating water, is effective but limited by geographic constraints in Denmark.
• 💡 Converting electricity into hydrogen allows for energy storage in a transportable form for various applications.
• 💰 Economic feasibility of energy storage systems is crucial; they must be cost-effective compared to traditional energy sources.
• 🚀 As fossil fuel power plants are phased out, developing scalable and efficient energy storage solutions will be essential for a sustainable energy future.

Q & A

What is the primary issue with wind energy production in Denmark?

The primary issue is that wind energy production is inconsistent; wind turbines may not generate electricity when needed, leading to times of both surplus and scarcity.

What are the peak times for energy consumption in Denmark?

Peak energy consumption occurs in the morning during coffee time and again in the evening when cooking meals, with notable spikes during winter holidays.

How much excess wind energy was produced on September 15 of the previous year?

On September 15, wind turbines in Denmark produced 130% of the total energy consumption for the day, resulting in a situation where some turbines had to be turned off.

What energy storage solution is discussed in the video?

The video discusses using thermal energy storage by heating stones to 600 degrees Celsius, which can store energy for later use.

How does the thermal energy storage system work?

When there is excess energy, air is heated and directed into a chamber filled with heated stones. When energy is needed, cold air is blown into the chamber, absorbing heat from the stones and generating electricity.

What are the advantages of using stones for energy storage?

Stones are inexpensive, can withstand repeated heating and cooling cycles without degrading, and provide a cost-effective energy storage solution with a long lifespan.

What alternative energy storage methods are mentioned?

Other methods include mechanical energy storage, such as raising water to create potential energy, and chemical energy storage, like producing hydrogen for use as fuel.

Why are batteries not considered the best large-scale solution for energy storage?

Batteries are expensive, resource-intensive to produce, and not very efficient for large-scale energy storage.

What theoretical energy storage solution involves superconductors?

A theoretical solution involves creating a closed loop with a current that can circulate indefinitely without loss, achieved by cooling superconductors to very low temperatures.

What economic considerations are discussed regarding energy storage?

The economic viability of energy storage is questioned, particularly in comparison to existing power plants, and whether new storage solutions can be competitive in the energy market.