Energy Technology and Innovation
Expert-defined terms from the Postgraduate Certificate in Energy Diplomacy course at London School of Planning and Management. Free to read, free to share, paired with a globally recognised certification pathway.
Energy Technology and Innovation Glossary #
Energy Technology and Innovation Glossary
Advanced Energy Technologies #
Technologies that are at the cutting edge of development in the energy sector, typically characterized by high efficiency, low environmental impact, and innovative features. Examples include advanced solar panels, carbon capture and storage systems, and advanced nuclear reactors.
Biogas #
A renewable energy source produced through the anaerobic digestion of organic matter such as agricultural waste, sewage sludge, and food waste. Biogas can be used to generate electricity, heat, or as a vehicle fuel.
Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) #
A technology that captures carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from industrial processes or power plants before they are released into the atmosphere. The captured CO2 is then transported to a storage site, typically underground, where it is permanently stored to prevent it from contributing to climate change.
Decentralized Energy Systems #
Energy systems that are designed to generate and distribute energy on a smaller scale, often at or near the point of use. Decentralized energy systems can increase energy security, improve resilience, and reduce transmission losses.
Electric Vehicles (EVs) #
Vehicles that are powered by electricity stored in batteries or fuel cells, rather than by gasoline or diesel. EVs are considered a key technology for reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the transportation sector.
Energy Efficiency #
The ratio of useful energy output to total energy input in a system. Improving energy efficiency involves reducing energy waste and increasing the amount of useful energy produced for a given input.
Energy Innovation #
The process of developing and implementing new technologies, practices, or policies that improve the efficiency, sustainability, and affordability of energy production, distribution, and consumption.
Energy Management Systems #
Systems that monitor, control, and optimize energy use in buildings, industrial facilities, or power grids. Energy management systems can help reduce energy costs, improve reliability, and lower greenhouse gas emissions.
Energy Policy #
The set of laws, regulations, and incentives that govern how energy is produced, distributed, and consumed in a country or region. Energy policy plays a crucial role in shaping the energy transition towards cleaner and more sustainable sources.
Energy Security #
The ability of a country or region to reliably access and afford sufficient energy supplies to meet its needs. Energy security is a critical consideration for policymakers, as disruptions in energy supply can have significant economic and social impacts.
Energy Storage #
Technologies that store energy for later use, enabling flexibility in the timing of energy production and consumption. Energy storage systems can help integrate variable renewable energy sources like wind and solar into the grid.
Geothermal Energy #
Renewable energy derived from the heat stored beneath the Earth's surface. Geothermal energy can be used for electricity generation, heating, and cooling applications.
Hydrogen Economy #
A theoretical future energy system in which hydrogen is used as a clean, versatile, and widely available energy carrier. The hydrogen economy could play a key role in decarbonizing sectors such as transportation and industry.
Innovative Financing Mechanisms #
Financial tools and instruments that support the development and deployment of energy technologies, such as green bonds, carbon pricing mechanisms, and public-private partnerships. Innovative financing mechanisms can help bridge the gap between investment needs and available capital.
Low #
Carbon Technologies: Technologies that produce energy with lower greenhouse gas emissions compared to conventional fossil fuels. Low-carbon technologies include renewable energy sources, nuclear power, and carbon capture and storage.
Microgrid #
A localized energy system that can operate independently or in conjunction with the main power grid. Microgrids can integrate renewable energy sources, storage systems, and demand-side management to increase resilience and reliability.
Net Zero Energy Buildings #
Buildings that produce as much energy as they consume over the course of a year. Net-zero energy buildings typically incorporate energy-efficient design, renewable energy systems, and energy storage technologies.
Off #
Grid Energy Systems: Energy systems that are not connected to the main power grid and rely on decentralized sources of energy, such as solar panels, wind turbines, or diesel generators. Off-grid energy systems are common in remote or rural areas without reliable grid access.
Renewable Energy #
Energy derived from naturally replenished sources, such as sunlight, wind, and biomass. Renewable energy technologies include solar photovoltaics, wind turbines, hydropower, and geothermal energy.
Smart Grid #
An electricity grid that incorporates digital communication and control technologies to optimize the generation, distribution, and consumption of electricity. Smart grids can improve grid reliability, efficiency, and integration of renewable energy sources.
Sustainable Energy #
Energy that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. Sustainable energy encompasses renewable energy sources, energy efficiency, and responsible energy use.
Transactive Energy #
A system in which energy producers and consumers can buy, sell, and exchange energy in real-time based on market signals. Transactive energy systems can optimize grid operations and support the integration of renewable energy resources.
Virtual Power Plant #
A network of distributed energy resources, such as solar panels, batteries, and demand response systems, that are aggregated and managed as a single entity. Virtual power plants can provide grid services and support grid stability.
Zero #
Emission Vehicles: Vehicles that produce no tailpipe emissions of greenhouse gases or other pollutants during operation. Zero-emission vehicles include battery electric vehicles, fuel cell vehicles, and plug-in hybrid vehicles.