Technology Outlook 2020

Page 61

Contents Wind energy Onshore wind turbines will not increase in size, but they will be smarter. Offshore turbines, however, may increase from 3MW to 10MW, but what are the new solutions that will be necessary for managing access and maintenance?

62

Solar heat and power New developments, e.g. in thin-film photovoltaics or in solar arrays, will offer cheaper solar power. Will efficiency improvements and reduced production costs mean a break-through for solar energy?

64

Biofuels for the future Gasification of biofuels offers flexibility regarding feedstock product, but suffers from high capital costs. What are the technical solutions and how will the challenges regarding pipelines and storage of biofuels be met?

66

Geothermal energy Enhanced Geothermal Systems have the potential to deliver low-emission energy at a manageable price, but depend on complex and deep drilling to access the heat of the Earth. Which technologies will make this possible?

68

Nuclear energy Life extension, safe operation, advanced reactor designs, and solutions to nuclear waste disposal are all key issues. Will small modular reactors result in expansion in the use of nuclear power for remote or mobile applications?

70


Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.