Managing energy demands: Achieving a cleaner, more efficient future

The energy sector is being driven by the need for decarbonisation and the increasing demand for electricity. In this article, Kelly Cole, General Manager for Electric Power at Finning UK & Ireland, explores the challenges and opportunities in energy, providing valuable insights into how companies can thrive.

Challenges in renewable energy expansion

The renewable energy sector is experiencing significant growth, driven by the UK’s focus on offshore wind and solar generation. Substantial investments, such as the £960 million allocated to the UK Green Industries Growth Accelerator and the record-breaking $358 billion invested globally in renewable energy during the first half of 2023 (BloombergNEF), highlight this shift. However, the industry faces obstacles, including green protectionism, supply chain constraints and escalating costs, which have led to the abandonment of potentially lucrative projects.

The pursuit of clean energy is further complicated by challenges surrounding e-fuels, particularly in terms of energy efficiency, affordability and infrastructure readiness. E-diesel exemplifies these challenges, as its production involves multiple energy conversion steps, resulting in lower efficiency and higher costs compared to the direct use of renewable electricity.

The infrastructural demands for e-diesel, coupled with the current high production costs and the necessity for renewable hydrogen sources, highlight the intricacies of transitioning to clean energy solutions. The scalability of e-diesel production is further constrained by limited carbon dioxide feedstocks and the need for advanced technological breakthroughs.

Leveraging technology for a competitive and environmental edge

In response to these challenges, the adoption and integration of new technologies is encouraging. Developments in genset technology, such as advanced control systems, and the creation of microgrid solutions, show how companies can harness technology to optimise energy distribution, manage loads more efficiently and integrate distributed energy resources. Cat® microgrid technology, for instance, represents a leap forward in creating resilient and sustainable power solutions tailored to customer needs.

In terms of addressing e-fuel challenges, leveraging advanced technologies is crucial. Catalytic processes and the integration of renewable energy sources, for example, are pivotal for enhancing the efficiency and reducing the costs of e-fuel production. In addition, embracing collaborative platforms that unite researchers, industry stakeholders and policymakers can accelerate technological breakthroughs, from improving electrolysis efficiency to discovering cost-effective carbon capture methods.

Championing a greener future

To remain competitive and environmentally responsible, the electric power sector must adopt a multifaceted approach. This involves optimising power usage, understanding energy demands, and preventing equipment oversizing. Tackling e-fuel challenges also requires focused research and development efforts.

E-fuels, particularly e-diesel, hold immense potential for shaping a sustainable energy future. Despite production complexities, advancements in catalytic processes and renewable energy integration provide key solutions.

As a result, the integration of renewable energy sources into power systems is now a necessity. As we prioritise lowemission technologies and fuels, the role of advanced combustion technologies and emission control systems becomes increasingly important. Technology can not only reduce the environmental impact of energy generation but also create a more sustainable, energy-efficient world.

Kelly Cole started her career as an engineering apprentice for GE Aviation in 1997, before progressing through roles in customer service and operations into management. While at GE Aviation, Cole achieved a first-class degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Wales, as well as an MBA from Cardiff University.

Early in her career, Cole developed a wealth of hands-on engineering and technical experience, including building and stripping engines and leading a manufacturing cell for printed circuit boards for flight power tiles and displays. Her next roles involved managing relationships with major airlines and growing GE Aviation’s service business in multiple markets.

Cole’s final role at GE Aviation was leading the technical field service team, working with engineers across leading airlines to manage the fleet in service, focused on the fleet stability and reliability. Some key achievements include growing the Africa services market share of narrow body engines from the region with the lowest exclusive coverage, to the highest, while driving services growth in Europe for the very mature engine market.

In her role as General Manager for Electric Power at Finning UK & Ireland, Cole will build on the success of the talented team there, as well as further develop the company’s customercentric approach, to help Finning partner with customers to build and power a better world.