This article discusses future renewable energy technology. Topics include onshore wind, marine and wave technologies, and thermal energy storage systems. The REmap is an international reference case developed based on national plans of 40 countries. Table 1 summarizes generation of renewable energy technology by sector for the year 3013/2014. The data in the table is based on the REmap and the IRENA reference case. This article does not purport to be comprehensive, but should be of some help in understanding the technology that will be required to produce energy in the future.

Thermal energy storage systems

Crushed rock heat storage systems are emerging as a viable and cost-effective solution for long- duration heat storage. Crushed rock can be used for large-scale storage of heat and electricity, and can be reused by industries, buildings, and the grid. A 30-MW/130-MWh ETES prototype was recently launched in Hamburg by Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy. These systems are relatively inexpensive and store heat at temperatures ranging from 180 to 750 degrees Celsius. The heat stored in these systems is converted back into power via a steam turbine.

Marine and wave technologies

While the U.S. has had the benefit of utility-scale wind and solar, Europe is making waves in the development of marine and wave technologies. In this article, we’ll take a look at how the technology can help us meet our energy needs. Our panel of experts includes Richard Ainsworth, project engineer for the European Marine Energy Center in Scotland, and George Bonner, director of the North Carolina Renewable Ocean Energy Program at the N.C. Coastal Studies Institute.

Onshore wind

Onshore wind is a promising renewable energy technology for the future. Its cost is lower than traditional energy sources, and the average capacity of an onshore wind turbine is 3.9 megawatts. The wind turbines are … Read More