By Niels Krogh Søndergaard, AAU Communication & Public Affairs

As Denmark strides towards an energy future that’s not only greener but also stable and secure, the upcoming REpower DK 2024 research day, scheduled for April 23, will be an important event for sharing knowledge in the sustainable energy sector. Under the theme, "A Secure and Resilient Energy System," this year’s event promises to be a forum for discussing the transformation of our energy landscape.

Leading the green transition: Hans Abildgaard's vision

Among the distinguished speakers, Hans Abildgaard, from Better Energy, stands out as a key figure. With his rich experience in the renewable energy sector, including working at Energinet and Vestas, and now leading initiatives at Better Energy, Abildgaard is at the forefront of shaping Denmark's energy future. As the director of grid analysis & modelling he is involved in building some of the biggest solar and hybrid energy parks in Denmark and other Europe markets.

- Harnessing readily available, efficient green solutions for the electric grid is crucial for immediate impact in the green transition, Hans Abildgaard says.

Balancing innovation with community engagement

Abildgaard's approach is pragmatic and grounded in current realities.

- I will argue that while developing new technologies is important, the focus should be on implementing existing, cost-effective green solutions for large-scale electric grids.

The directors pragmatism is also exemplified in another dimension of energy project planning: Ensuring the local support for energy parks and working with letting the parks deliver additional solutions to other needs than energy supply. An example of this approach is Better Energy's recent project near Kolding, where the company seeks to balance energy production with trying to engage the local community, build biodiversity zones in their solar parks as well as integrate some recreational space.

Setting the right requirements

Hans Abildgaard highlights the complexities of planning in the renewable energy sector, especially regarding the 'grid compliance' regulations. He emphasizes the need for rules that cater to the evolving realities of hybrid plants and more flexible energy networks.

At REpower DK 2024, Abildgaard will delve deeper into these issues, discussing the multifaceted challenges of designing hybrid power plants. His talk will be an insightful exploration of the technical, environmental, economic, and legal aspects shaping the energy parks of the future.

As Denmark gears up for more significant energy projects, Abildgaard's insights at REpower DK 2024 will aid in guiding curious practitioners and researchers in mounting the current barriers towards a sustainable and resilient energy future.