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The green energy revolution is not just a fleeting trend; it's a full-fledged movement gaining momentum by the day. With projections indicating that global renewable capacity will hit an impressive 7,300GW by 2028, the push for cleaner energy is undeniable. However, as we strive for higher wind yields and seek to harness energy from distant sunny or windy regions, a new challenge arises: the increasing distance green energy must travel.
Consider the ambitious Xlinks project, which aims to transmit green electricity from Morocco to Devon, spanning a staggering 3,800 kilometres. This project alone will account for nearly half of its £20bn budget, highlighting the financial and logistical investments required for long-distance energy transmission. But is it worth it?
High-voltage, direct current (HVDC) cables, the most efficient option available, still lose about three per cent of their energy per thousand kilometres. Despite this, proponents argue that long-distance projects like Xlinks can be cost-effective. In fact, Xlinks has secured a 25-year contract with the UK government, guaranteeing a price of £56-£64 per MWh in 2012 prices, which is lower than the government's maximum price for offshore wind developers in the next auction round.
The demand for high-voltage cables for offshore wind projects is expected to surge over the next decade. However, the global supply is lagging behind, with China being the primary producer. Outside of China, only three companies dominate the market, accounting for over 75 per cent of the supply. This has led to a shortage, prompting the need for new cable plant projects, such as those planned in the UK.
Boosting supply won't be a walk in the park. Cable manufacturing facilities require substantial capital investment, specialized industrial buildings, deepwater access for cable-laying ships, and a skilled workforce. While renewable energy capacity continues to rise, the challenge of integrating it into existing grids may prove more daunting than generating the power itself.
The green energy revolution is undeniably here to stay, but it comes with its own set of challenges. As we push the boundaries of long-distance energy transmission, we must address the issues of efficiency, supply, and integration. The journey to a sustainable future is not without obstacles, but with innovation and determination, we can overcome them and pave the way for a greener planet.
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