- The ultracapacitor at Kuusankoski was announced in August 2024.
- It triples UPM's ultracapacitor capacity.
- UPM's first ultracapacitor was commissioned in 2022 at Ontojoki.
- Finland's electricity production by UPM is 99% emission-free.
Ultracapacitor Activation
UPM Energy has activated a six-megawatt ultracapacitor at the Kuusankoski hydropower plant. This device stores energy and provides balancing power to the electricity grid, addressing the increased need for fast and flexible balancing power due to the rise of renewable, weather-dependent energy sources like wind and solar power.
Enhanced Grid Stability
The ultracapacitor system can respond to grid balancing needs in a fraction of a second, offering short-term energy storage that is crucial as electricity production becomes more volatile. Ultracapacitors are maintenance-free and have a longer lifespan than batteries, making them suitable for sustainable energy solutions.
Growing Demand for Reserves
In the past five years, the demand for reserves has tripled due to the increased share of weather-dependent energy sources. Ultracapacitors provide a rapid response, complementing hydropower and ensuring the durability of power plants, thus offering more balancing power for the grid.
Technological Integration
The Kuusankoski ultracapacitor uses modern digital solutions and automation to optimize performance, ensuring efficient and reliable balancing power for the grid. UPM Energy's first ultracapacitor was commissioned in 2022 at the Ontojoki hydropower plants, marking the world's first combination of a hydropower system and an ultracapacitor.
Emission-Free Electricity
UPM Energy is a significant player in Finland's electricity generation, being the second largest electricity producer in the country. Notably, 99% of its electricity production is emission-free, contributing to a more sustainable energy landscape.
