10ᵗʰ AVL High Power Systems Conference

The challenging targets for the decarbonization have increased the pressure to improve the efficiency of propulsion and energy generation systems. The current prices of alternative fuels compared to their traditional fossil competitors are significantly higher, and although economies of scale and improved production methods will bring reductions they are expected to remain higher. This presents the need for more efficient and better optimized systems and powertrains. The industry is rapidly responding to such demands through solutions ranging from the use of innovative materials, optimized component selection, hybrid solutions and data driven system optimization. There is a wide range of approaches and initiatives to improve the efficiency of existing assets through conversions and novel solutions for the future generations.

Within the context of well-to-wake optimization, green corridor energy life cycle management focuses on leveraging the use of alternative fuels — specifically hydrogen, ammonia, and methanol (currently prominent as transitional fuels). The systems technology integrates internal combustion engines that use power-to-liquid solutions, alongside fuel cells. This approach ensures a comprehensive and sustainable energy life cycle, promoting efficient power generation and distribution across diverse sectors like shipping, power generation, rail, and mining. The goal is to enhance environmental performance while meeting the high power demands of these industries.

Power-to-X (PtX) technologies represent a groundbreaking path in the energy landscape, enabling the conversion of renewable electricity into various forms of energy and supporting the decarbonization of multiple sectors. Moreover, PtX facilitates the integration of electricity, heat and transportation, promoting a more interconnected energy system. However, there are still challenges. Efficiency, cost and scalability are critical areas that still need to be improved. Advances, e.g. in electrolyzer technology and infrastructure are needed to optimize PtX processes and make them economically viable on a larger scale. The latest developments in the field of high temperature electrolyzers (SOEC) and PtX plants are breakthroughs that represent a step forward in overcoming existing challenges and pushing the boundaries of what PtX technologies can achieve.

In the pursuit of a sustainable future, alternative fuels emerge as beacons of change, offering a pathway to a net-zero carbon footprint. Hydrogen, ammonia, methanol and synthetic methane take center stage as the driving forces behind this transformative journey of the high power system industry. Hydrogen, a light weight true zero emission energy carrier, holds the key to powering some high power applications with minimal environmental impact in the short term. Ammonia steps into the spotlight with its good energy density, presenting itself as a promising zero-carbon fuel for a variety of uses. Methanol, valued for its ease of handling, demonstrates its effectiveness as an important energy carrier in the quest for net-zero carbon emissions. Synthetic methane, a product of innovative processes, might be the ideal fuel in the transition phase of decarbonizing our energy landscape. The potential of these alternative fuels can take the industry closer to a world with zero carbon emissions. Innovation and responsibility come together to create a sustainable and cleaner future for generations ahead.