Communicating the need for some grids is one of the central tasks with which RGI occupies itself. In 2020, we launched a video series in which each video provides a comprehensive and accessible overview of the main aspects of a particular grid-related topic. We began with the topics 'Grids and the Environment' and 'Electrification and Flexibility', and continued in 2022 with 'Why do we need electricity grids?' and 'Offshore wind energy infrastructure and biodiversity'.
Within the energy transition ecosystem-of-actors, diverse stakeholders must familiarise themselves with a range of complex and specialist topics. These include the technical, legal, social and environmental aspects of grid development; new technologies; consultation processes; energy policy at national, regional and EU level and many more. Video material can offer a source of information which is widely-accessible to specialist and non-specialist audiences alike. In 2020, we launched the first two videos produced under this series: 'Grids and the Environment' and 'Electrification and Flexibility'. Following their success, we are proud to share two new videos: 'Why do we need electricity grids?' and 'Offshore wind energy infrastructure and biodiversity'.
As we continue to set increasingly ambitious climate targets, the need for electricity grids becomes increasingly apparent. Electrifying entire sectors like transportation or heating will require ramp up in renewable electricity generation and transmission. Renewables like wind and solar power, which are typically spread out over vast distances, must be connected with consumers and industry with the grid. In the video 'Why do we need electricity grids?' we cover the challenges and opportunities faced by grid operators as they integrate a rising share of renewables into the network.
Warum wir das Stromnetz brauchen? (deutsche Version)
Pourquoi nous avons besoin de réseau électrique (version française)
Por qué necesitamos una red eléctrica (versión en español)
Ecco perché ci servono reti elettriche (versione italiana)
Harnessing the power of offshore wind with energy infrastructure is a key component of the energy transition. As governments and industry prepare to deploy infrastructure on a massive scale at sea, protecting the natural environment becomes a critical component of meeting our climate goals. In this video, we explore the ways in which offshore energy infrastructure can exist in harmony with nature, and even be a catalyst for enhanced biodiversity.
Offshore-Windkraftinfrastruktur und Biodiversität (deutsche Version)
Énergie éolienne en mer et biodiversité (version française)
Energía eólica del mar y biodiversidad (versión en español)
Energia eolica offshore e biodiversitá (versione italiana)
Electrification and flexibility are two terms which often come up in discussions about the energy transition. But what do these terms mean? In this video, we delve into what it means to 'electrify' sectors which have previously been reliant on fossil fuels, such as transport, and the system flexibility which these transformations enable. How can we balance supply and demand in a system based on variable renewable sources? What is demand response? What is the role of the grid? And what additional role do electric vehicles play? Find the answers to these questions and more in this video, 'Electrification and Flexibility'.
Elektrifizierung und Flexibilität (deutsche Version)
Elettrificazione e flessibilità (versione italiana)
Electrification et Flexiblité (version française)
A renewables-based system requires more renewable energy infrastructure and a European grid network in order to transport electricity generated by renewable sources from production to consumption centres. Where is this infrastructure built and what effects does this have on biodiversity, particularly birds? What solutions and opportunities are available? Which approaches have been taken by European TSOs? Find the answers to all of these questions and more in this video, 'Grids and the Environment'.
Netze und Umwelt (deutsche Version)
Le Reti e l'Ambiente (versione italiana)
RGI gratefully acknowledges the EU LIFE funding support:
Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the LIFE Programme. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.
