Jõukandja

Jõukandja is an Estonian term that translates to "power carrier" or "energy carrier." It is primarily used in the context of renewable energy and the transition away from fossil fuels.

A jõukandja refers to a substance or system that stores and transports energy, particularly from renewable sources like solar and wind power. This concept is crucial for addressing the intermittency of renewable energy generation. For instance, when solar panels produce more electricity than is immediately needed, this excess energy can be stored in a jõukandja for later use, such as during the night or on cloudy days.

Common forms of jõukandjad include batteries, hydrogen, and pumped-storage hydroelectricity. Batteries are electrochemical devices that store electrical energy directly. Hydrogen can be produced through electrolysis powered by renewable electricity and then used in fuel cells or burned to generate power. Pumped-storage hydro uses excess electricity to pump water to a higher reservoir, releasing it through turbines to generate power when needed.

The development and widespread adoption of efficient and cost-effective jõukandjad are considered vital for the successful integration of renewable energy into the global energy system. They enable grid stability, reduce reliance on fossil fuels for backup power, and contribute to decarbonization efforts. The term highlights the function of these technologies in enabling a more sustainable and resilient energy future.