UPM Energy invests in an ultracapacitor at Kuusankoski for balancing the grid
(UPM Energy, Helsinki, 8 August, 2024, 15:00 EEST) – UPM Energy makes the second phase investment in its innovative ultracapacitor project, which will further strengthen the ability of hydropower to balance the grid. The new installation will be located next to the Kuusankoski hydropower plant and is expected to be operational by summer 2025.
The system was successfully piloted at the Katerma hydropower site in 2022 and the concept is now being replicated at Kuusankoski. The Kuusankoski ultracapacitor system will enable UPM Energy to provide faster reserves through short-term energy storage, responding to grid balancing needs in mere milliseconds.
This responsiveness is crucial as the transmission grid operators are trying to cope with the increased volatility in electricity supply. This has been brought about by the rapid growth of weather-dependent renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar power.
Innovative technology for a sustainable future
UPM Energy is the second largest electricity producer in Finland, and 99% of its portfolio is CO2-free. The Kuusankoski project will utilise modern digital systems and automation processes to optimise the performance of the energy system and provide more balancing power to the grid.
"The ultracapacitor concept has proven its capability at Katerma and it will be an essential part of the hydropower generation,” says Antti Raukola, project manager at UPM Energy. “This technology is not just about innovation, but also about preparing for the future of grid balancing."
Ultracapacitors are known for their ability to discharge at high power and react in milliseconds without losing capacity. They are maintenance free and have a significantly longer lifetime than batteries, making them an ideal choice for sustainable energy solutions.
UPM Energy plays an important role in Finland’s zero-carbon electricity generation and aims to continuously strengthen its ability to meet the evolving needs of the electricity market. The construction of the Kuusankoski ultracapacitor system is another milestone on the road to a future beyond fossils.
For further information please contact:
Juha Haromo, Development Manager, Optimization & Physical Trading, UPM Energy, tel. +358 2041 66016
Antti Raukola, Project Manager, UPM Energy, tel. +358 2041 46510
UPM, Media Relations
Mon-Fri 9:00–16:00 EEST
tel. +358 40 588 3284
media@upm.com
UPM Energy
UPM Energy is the second largest electricity producer in Finland. We generate CO2-free electricity in our own and co-owned power plants. In addition, we sell electricity and its derivatives on the electricity market and drive the energy transformation. www.upmenergy.com
UPM
We deliver renewable and responsible solutions and innovate for a future beyond fossils across six business areas: UPM Fibres, UPM Energy, UPM Raflatac, UPM Specialty Papers, UPM Communication Papers and UPM Plywood. As the industry leader in responsibility, we are committed to the UN Business Ambition for 1.5°C and the science-based targets to mitigate climate change. We employ 16,600 people worldwide and our annual sales are approximately EUR 10.5 billion. Our shares are listed on Nasdaq Helsinki Ltd. UPM Biofore – Beyond fossils. www.upm.com
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