R&D: enhance energy efficiency and contribute to a more sustainable future

As part of its commitment to invest in innovative projects that contribute to the establishment of a sustainable energy environment, EDF power solutions, through Norte Fluminense TPP, integrates the national program regulated by the National Electric Energy Agency (ANEEL). In this way, the company contributes to the development of initiatives that optimize operational processes and decarbonization, thus benefiting the country’s economic and industrial growth.

Among the standout actions in recent years is the adoption of an intelligent monitoring and diagnostic system for transformers based on the pillars of Industry 4.0. By using the Preditor platform, the dissolved gas analyzer in oil, temperature and current sensors, thermographic cameras, FRACTIVE 4.0, and OnFra 4.0 were integrated, gathering all data into a single transformer panel.

The concept of ‘merging unit’ has also been implemented to work together with machine learning algorithms – particularly IForest, which allows for the detection of anomalies and incipient failures. Thus, diagnostics are made more accurately, increasing the reliability of the assets.

In Macaé (RJ), home of the Norte Fluminense TPP, EDF power solutions is in the final phase of the pilot hydrogen plant project, focusing on the decarbonization of processes and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. With an Energy Management System to Optimize the Operation of Microgrids with renewable sources, the project combines cogeneration and hydrogen production to ensure the self-sufficiency of this input and the cooling of turbines.

Projects focused on optimizing energy generation in hybrid isolated systems were also developed, aimed at reducing fossil fuel consumption. To this end, an intelligent hybrid system for isolated systems in Brazil was implemented, which combines renewable energy sources, battery energy storage systems (BESS), and fuel generators. Through a software and mobile application, it will be possible to gain a better understanding of energy sources, reducing dependence on fuels such as diesel and natural gas. An adaptive control will be used to manage the sources intelligently, adjusting to weather conditions and local consumption profiles.

To learn more about the progress of EDF power solutions’ R&D projects, check out the video below: