Analysis of selected aspects of energy sector - case study from Skierniewice, Poland

Abstract

Abstract. The aim of the paper was to analyse selected aspects of the energy sector in Poland. We analysed conventional methods of electric power production and provided an overview of conventional main activity electricity producers in Poland. The work contains a presentation of selected modernisation projects from the energy sector, characterisation of distribution system operators and analysis of the thermal power sector in Poland. Additionally, the article describes an enterprise operating in the thermal power engineering sector. The case study presented encompasses characterisation of a district heating plant located in Skierniewice, analysis of the heat generation process and description of the heat network programme. The study was based on literature, research and statistical data as well as on data provided by a thermal energy company LLC seated in Skierniewice. Additionally, employees of the company were interviewed during a site visit in the plant. The analysis of the thermal energy company LLC in Skierniewice allows us to conclude that the operation of undertakings specialising in the production of heat, which is to be used to heat buildings and supply hot water, differs depending on the quarter of the year, with 2 quarters of intense production (quarter I and IV -heating season) and 2 quarters of a reduced demand (quarter II and III -summer season).What is more, the company is required to comply with stringent standards for air pollutant emission. As a result of the above, there is a need for investments, which will have lower impact on the environment and will be performed in accordance with applicable regulations. In addition, the investments and modernisations aim to improve the efficiency of the equipment, reduce losses in the transmission of heat energy and enhance reliability of devices, all with a positive effect on the financial condition of the company.Keywords: power industry, power plants, conventional energy, heat. IntroductionIn this day and age, when a joint climate and energy policy is being pursued by the European Union [1-4], optimisation of the energy sector is necessary in order to reduce the emission of dusts, carbon dioxide and nitrogen oxides. The modernisation-related challenges faced by the Polish power sector must both effectively ensure the energy security of the state and its competitiveness, and satisfy the requirements of sustainable development [5][6][7][8]. What is equally important is that all modernisation-oriented efforts need to be goaled at renewable energy sources [5]. Over 40 % of all power units operated in Poland are older than 30 years, of which more than 15 % already exceeded the age boundary of 50 and should be deactivated without undue delay [9].It is estimated that approximately PLN 150-200 billion will be needed in the upcoming 15 years to carry out investments in new power units or to modernise the existing ones. Therefore, no wonder that financing such substantial investments from own funds may turn out to be too great a burden for the owners of the pla...

Characteristics of Substrates Used for Biogas Production in Terms of Water Content

“…Based on the problems associated with the operation of a biogas plant, Tucki et al [56] analyzed factors affecting operational efficiency. The main aspect impacting the efficiency of biogas plants is the transportation distance of substrates.…”

“…However, the analyzed article does not specify a vital aspect: the minimum distances that guarantee the economic justification of the transportation of pulp and substrates. It is proposed to research transportation's economic and environmental aspects [56].…”