The time for making future energy decisions is now. In their new book, The Smart Power Generation (Avain Publishing and Wärtsilä, 2011), energy and power production specialist Jacob Klimstra and author Markus Hotakainen work through the problems in electricity production and present a solution that will enable the production of more efficient and reliable renewable energy sources.
The Smart Power Generation is meant for all who are interested in the future of power, energy, the environment and new technological solutions to existing problems. The ideas in this English-language book are illustrated with graphs, tables and photographs.
“We are in a hurry to find answers to energy issues. To slow down global warming, action must be taken immediately. It is true that there has been a consistent increase in the amount of renewable and environmentally friendly energy produced, but, at the same time, we must ensure the stability of electricity produced in a commercially reasonable manner. We can contribute to development, which gives us hope for the future,” says Jussi Heikkinen, vice president, marketing and development, Wärtsilä Power Plants.
Increasing renewable energy sources in electricity production will require increasing flexibility: the amount of electricity derived from wind energy varies greatly with wind speed. In addition, the window for predicting changes is at best a few hours. Also, the sun shines only during the day. In order to maximise energy resources, electricity production systems must be flexible. These issues must be taken into account when considering questions of energy and power generation, grid operations and consumption control.
The system must be able to examine the existing capacity, the potential resources, the real needs and future development. The Smart Power Generation takes a stand on all these questions.
“Electricity has become such a normal part of our lives that it is no longer even noticed. Electricity consumption and dependency are growing globally; therefore, power generation in its entirety must be kept in mind, looking at stability, sustainable development, productivity and the economy,” states Heikkinen.
Energy and power production specialist Jacob Klimstra has worked for, amongst other institutes, Gasunie Research and as an energy issues specialist for Wärtsilä. Currently a private consultant, Klimstra has received several international awards for his research, doctoral thesis and for his work as a lecturer. He lectures regularly at international conferences and is a sought-after specialist the world over.
With over 30 years’ experience as an author, Markus Hotakainen has also worked as cost manager in the WSOY fiction department and as a journalist for YLE. Currently, he is an author and publisher. He is an award-winning author of more than 80 works.
The Smart Power Generation has been a joint production of Wärtsilä and Avain Publishing.