THESIS - Ultracapacitors in hydropower to improve grid sustainability

Background 

The rapidly developing electrical power system with increased dynamics from more renewable energy has led to a need for increased flexible production, making it harder for hydro power to respond quickly. New innovations and technologies need to be investigated. Ultracapacitors are recognized for their ability to deliver high-power discharge and respond within milliseconds without capacity loss. They require no maintenance and offer a significantly longer lifespan than batteries, making them a perfect choice for sustainable energy solutions. 

Objective 

The objective of this thesis is to investigate the integration of ultracapacitors in hydropower systems to enhance grid sustainability through a literature review 

The aim of the work is to evaluate the potential of ultracapacitors to improve grid stability by providing rapid energy storage and discharge capabilities in hydropower plants. Analyse the technical feasibility of incorporating ultracapacitors into existing hydropower systems, focusing on their ability to enhance system flexibility, reduce response times, and smooth out fluctuations in power output. Develop a model to simulate the performance of a hybrid hydropower-ultracapacitor system under varying grid conditions and quantify its impact on grid reliability and sustainability. 

Our offer 

At Fortum we see a Thesis Project as a good way to get to know you during your study time and for you to learn more about Fortum and how our business is working. A Supervisor will be appointed to support and guide you through the Thesis Project and you will also create a network of people within the Company as well as with other Students doing their Thesis with us.  

For a well performed and approved work, we will provide a taxable lumpsum award. 

This Thesis Project is preferably executed at either of our offices in Stockholm/Solna. 

Your Qualifications 

We believe that you are studying Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Engineering Physics or similar, at a Master Programme level. Courses or experience in hydropower are meriting. The Project can be performed in either Swedish or English. 

We expect you to be analytical, energetic and able to work independently. You like challenges and are interested in solving complicated technical problems. 

Interested? 

To apply, register your CV and a personal letter of maximum one page or a Power Point presentation of maximum two slides, in our Recruitment Tool via “Apply now”, latest by 24th November 2024. Applications will be evaluated continuously and an applicant may be on-boarded before this date. 

The personal letter shall include an approach on how you would like to investigate the idea. Mark your application with the reference number HYG-174. 

If you have General questions about Theses or Internship at Fortum, please address those to fortumcareers@fortum.com. 

Please note that we have more Master Thesis Projects open for application at our recruitment site.