In Brief

Publications Pictures of the Future Spring 2002

Energy

The driving forces behind the energy market are liberalization and environmental policy. In the future, energy suppliers will face tougher competition. The factors determining success on this changed market will be customer orientation and flexibility. The trade in energy (and probably in emissions certificates too) will gain in importance
This new situation will create new opportunities for energy supply companies. For example, many small plants utilizing different energy carriers will be able to come together to form a virtual power plant. Siemens already offers a software package that facilitates the management of this energy mix
Cost pressure demands increased energy efficiency. It is not enough to generate power alone—the associated heat must also be used. The fact that heat cannot be transported over large distances is an important argument in favor of decentralized power generation units
Fuel cells are particularly suitable for this purpose, especially those that are driven by natural gas or hydrogen. These cells have high efficiencies and are extremely environmentally friendly. However, before they can be used commercially, costs will have to decrease
Siemens is conducting research into polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) and solid oxide fuel cells (SOFC). In Pittsburgh, Siemens is setting up a factory for SOFC power stations. The company is also building SOFC demonstration plants
Siemens researchers are redesigning SOFCs: Instead of long tubes, the aim is to manufacture them as flat sheets containing holes. It is hoped that the new design will increase the power density threefold
Conventional power stations will remain an important pillar of the power supply sector, whereby their efficiency will be improved progressively. Siemens uses 3D computer simulations to develop specially formed turbine blades that ensure better utilization of the fuel
Superconductivity is another very promising technology. Highly efficient, compact superconducting motors, current limiters, transformers and cables already exist as prototypes. However, costs must also be cut here before they can be used commercially