In a significant advancement for the energy sector, researchers have unveiled a comprehensive analysis of energy loss in dual power supply systems that utilize supercapacitors (SC) for energy storage. This study, led by Ģirts Staņa from the Institute of Industrial Electronics, Electrical Engineering and Energy, Riga Technical University, highlights how the placement of supercapacitors within a DC network can dramatically affect energy efficiency, a crucial factor for industries reliant on electric motors.
Electric motors are not just consumers of energy; they can also generate it during braking. Traditionally, this energy would be wasted or poorly utilized. Staņa’s research provides a solution by exploring how supercapacitors can store this energy effectively and supply it when needed, particularly in applications such as renewable energy generation and electric public transport. “The efficiency of energy flow can vary significantly depending on how and where the energy storage system is connected to the DC network,” Staņa explained. “Our findings could lead to optimized designs that enhance energy savings and performance.”
The study meticulously examined three scenarios for connecting supercapacitors within a dual power supply system: close to the load, distant from the load, and near the DC source. Each configuration was analyzed using both mathematical models and simulations, revealing that the discharge intensity of supercapacitors impacts the overall efficiency of the power supply. As Staņa noted, “By adjusting the discharge parameters, we can reduce the energy drawn from the DC grid, which not only conserves resources but also prolongs the lifespan of the energy storage system.”
This research is poised to influence various sectors, particularly in enhancing the performance of electric vehicles and optimizing renewable energy systems. The findings could pave the way for more advanced energy management systems capable of maximizing efficiency and minimizing losses, which is particularly relevant in a world increasingly focused on sustainability.
Published in the journal ‘Energies’, this study adds to the growing body of knowledge around energy storage solutions and their application in modern power systems. As industries look to improve their energy efficiency, Staņa’s work stands out as a beacon of innovation, promising to reshape the landscape of energy management and storage strategies in the years to come.
