Statnett to tap CERN for grid innovation
Image: Statnett
Norwegian TSO Statnett is to collaborate with the European particle physics lab CERN on sustainable solutions for the operation of future power grids.
Under a memorandum of cooperation Statnett and CERN intend to explore collaborative opportunities across a range of areas that can address the challenges and opportunities for managing highly complex systems, such as the evolving transmission system with its demand for high reliability.
In particular thematic areas that have been identified include time synchronisation on measurements, control of high voltage power electronics, artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning, as well as drone and robot technology.
Ultimately the goal is to contribute to the utilisation of the existing infrastructure with automated system operation and increased capacity and to advance the development of an offshore power system.
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“The transition to the future power grid characterised by a high share of renewable and intermittent energy sources requires new solutions and expertise in monitoring and controlling the grid,” comments Nenad Keseric, director of R&D and Innovation at Statnett.
“As we navigate the challenges posed by the integration of wind and solar energy into our grid, collaboration with CERN emerges as a valuable partnership. It will make us accelerate the development of novel solutions, ensuring a secure and efficient operation of the power grid in Norway and beyond.”
CERN knowledge transfer
CERN, the European Organisation for Nuclear Research as a research partner will be a new one for many in the sector.
The organisation, which marks its 70th anniversary this year, was among the first European intergovernmental research organisations to be created and has since grown to become the world’s largest particle physics laboratory with many achievements to its name – perhaps most famously the world wide web.
With CERN’s competencies and technology ‘knowledge transfer’ has become an important component of its work, with renewable and low carbon energy identified as one of the main sectors with high impact potential and strong synergies with its technical domains of expertise.
One of these is superconductors and for example, the Irish transmission technology company SuperNode is collaborating with CERN on the development of a novel insulation for superconducting cables to improve long distance transmission.
Although not stated the collaboration with Statnett appears to be the first with a TSO.
CERN’s head of Knowledge Transfer, Giovanni Anelli, says the collaboration with Statnett reinforces the organisation’s ongoing commitment to innovate and contribute to addressing global challenges such as climate change through technological advancements.
“I am confident that merging CERN’s expertise developed in the pursuit of fundamental physics research with Statnett’s proficiency in managing complex and reliable power systems will make a positive impact on energy grids. We also hope it serves as an inspiration for others to innovate with CERN.”
