Energy, it’s everywhere, powering our homes, cars, and even the device you are reading this on. But have you ever wondered where it all comes from, how it works, and why we are constantly hearing about different types of energy? Let’s take a closer look at the basics and break down some key terms that often get thrown around in the power sector. Types of Energy: Renewable vs. Non-Renewable To start with, energy comes in…
While often seen as static, utilitarian structures, transmission towers embody intricate engineering designs tailored to handle multiple variables. These include the voltage level, conductor weight, environmental challenges, and the growing complexity of modern power grids. Over time, transmission tower designs have evolved with advancements in materials science, load optimization, and the grid’s shifting needs. Key Factors Influencing Transmission Tower Design The design of transmission towers hinges on multiple factors, including voltage level, environmental conditions, terrain,…
Reactors help in controlling power flow, enhancing voltage stability, and minimizing the risk of faults within increasingly complex power systems. Reactive power, unlike active power, does not transfer energy from source to load but is necessary for voltage control and maintaining the stability of alternating current (AC) systems. Reactors, by providing inductive reactance, absorb excess reactive power in the system, thereby controlling voltage rise, which is especially important during light-load conditions or in long transmission…
At the heart of a wind turbine’s efficiency lies its design. The aerodynamic performance of the blades directly impacts power output. Modern blade designs incorporate advanced materials like carbon fibre-reinforced composites, enhancing durability while reducing weight. These materials improve load distribution across the rotor, allowing for larger blades and thus, greater energy capture. The challenge lies in balancing blade length with structural integrity. Longer blades generate more energy but exert greater forces on the tower…
According to the latest release from the International Energy Agency (IEA), total net electricity production in the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) countries reached 902.8 TWh in June 2024, reflecting a 5.4% year-on-year (y-o-y) increase. On a year-to-date basis, electricity production in the first two quarters of 2024 rose by 2.9%. The OECD consists of 38 member countries, including major economies such as the United States, Japan, Germany, and Australia, working to promote…
Transformers face several risks and potential faults that, if left unaddressed, could lead to system failures. Transformers can experience both external and internal faults. External faults include short circuits, overloads, and over-voltages that originate outside the transformer but impact its operation. On the other hand, internal faults occur within the transformer itself and may include short circuits between turns or windings, ground faults, excessive temperature or pressure, and the loss of transformer oil. Each of…
Most hydrogen used today is produced from fossil fuels, primarily natural gas, through processes like steam methane reforming. These processes are carbon-intensive and release large quantities of CO2, making them unsuitable for a net-zero future. Green hydrogen, produced through electrolysis powered by renewable energy, and blue hydrogen, produced with carbon capture and storage (CCS), are considered clean alternatives. However, these methods are costly, and green hydrogen faces challenges due to the intermittency of renewable energy…
Advancement of Nuclear Energy Through a Materials Engineering Perspective Climate change and diminishing fossil fuels have fostered the development of cleaner and more sustainable energy sources since the past half a century. Advancements in nuclear energy have been gaining renewed attention as a source of stable and non-intermittent energy. Advanced nuclear reactors, heralded as the next generation of nuclear technology, promise to deliver safer, more efficient, and more sustainable energy. However, the success of these…
As of August 2024, India’s total installed capacity reached 4,50,759.56 MW, covering coal, lignite, gas, hydro, nuclear, and renewable energy sources. The total installed capacity from renewable energy sources was 1,52,654.48 MW. In the State Sector, the installed capacity totalled 1,08,276.94 MW. Of this, 69,977.50 MW was from coal, while 27,254.45 MW came from hydro. Renewable energy contributed 2,602.62 MW to the state sector’s total capacity. In the Private Sector, the total installed capacity stood…
The peak power demand in India for August 2024 reached 2,49,856 MW, with 2,49,854 MW being met, a marginal shortfall of 2 MW. Many states were able to meet their peak power demand in full. Delhi had a peak demand of 8,656 MW, which was fully met, and Maharashtra similarly met its demand of 28,924 MW. In certain regions, small deficits were observed. For example, UT of J&K and Ladakh had a peak demand of…
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