Energy dictionary

LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas) is one of the possible fuels for CHP units. Its low emissions of nitrogen oxides and particulate matter support the reduction of the environmental impact of the power and heat generation. LPG allows relatively easy distribution and storage, making it ideal for smaller plants or remote areas with a limited access to other fuels. These are generally so-called island operations with their own storage tanks, i.e. locations where the necessary gas infrastructure is not available.

Combined production of power and heat, or cogeneration, is a method of generating the electric power that makes useful use of the heat released during the power generation process. This achieves a very high efficiency in the use of the energy in the fuel. At the same time, this process minimizes the losses that occur in the traditional power generation. Thanks to the efficient use of the ‘waste heat’, combined heat and power generation saves up to 70% of the energy contained in the fuel as compared to the separate heat and power generation.

Energy storage is the process of storing energy that has been produced at one moment and using it at another moment. Energy storage is important for increasing the efficiency and flexibility of the energy system because it reduces dependence on instantaneous energy production and consumption. Energy storage can take place in different ways, for example by using batteries, pumped storage plants, flywheels or hot storage. Energy storage also has a positive impact on the environment by encouraging the use of renewable energy sources and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

It is a complete takeover and operation of the customer’s energy source. This is followed by the design of a new solution, the reconstruction and operation of the new equipment under the direction of TEDOM. In addition to saving the investment in the new equipment, the customer gets a modern solution that combines both environmental and economic benefits.

Energy communities are one type of community energy. They are entities that bring together and coordinate the flexibility of electric power producers and consumers. The main purpose of an energy community is not to make a profit, but to provide environmental, economic or social benefits to its members or to the territories where it operates.

Community energy is an innovative approach to the energy sector that emphasizes the active participation of local people and small communities in the energy sector. The concept promotes the development of renewable energy sources and energy efficiency. The main objective is to create sustainable energy systems at local level, which includes the development of micro-grids, shared production and consumption of electric power in households and small-sized businesses. Community energy thus creates economic and environmental benefits for local communities, increasing energy independence and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

It is the ability of the owner of the resource to react quickly to changes in the supply and consumption of electric power in order to maintain the energy balance in the network – electric power must be produced in the exact amount that is consumed at any given time. This includes using resources that can quickly increase or decrease their production. Flexibility allows the power to be produced efficiently, minimizing losses and ensuring reliable operation of the grid. In the future, the focus will be on the use of decentralized resources and the involvement of consumers in the management of flexible operation. Consumers will thus also become suppliers if necessary.

The carbon footprint of electric power and gas production refers to the amount of greenhouse gases, mainly carbon dioxide (CO2), released into the atmosphere during this production. It is therefore used to measure its environmental impact. Low carbon footprints are usually associated with production from renewable energy sources such as solar panels or wind turbines, where CO2 emissions are minimal. In contrast, electric power generation from fossil fuels such as coal or oil has a high carbon footprint. The carbon footprint of electric power generation can be reduced by increasing efficiency and by an appropriate mix of sources.

A virtual power plant is an innovative concept that combines many small and decentralized energy sources into one efficient and flexible system that behaves externally as one large source. This network connects, for example, CHP units, photovoltaic panels, batteries and other renewable as well as traditional energy sources. The virtual power plant allows these sources to be managed and the electric power supply optimized according to current needs and market prices. This increases overall efficiency and allows resource owners to earn financial rewards for their participation in the virtual power plant. This modern concept promotes sustainable energy and increases the reliability of electric power supply.