Edison

INNOVATION, RESEARCH and DEVELOPMENT 2009

The activities carried out in 2009 covered a broad range of issues, all related to environmental sustainability, such as renewable sources, energy efficiency, low-impact power generation technologies and development of advanced materials.

Fuel Cells

The main focus of testing activities in the area of fuel cells was to monitor the development levels of the most promising technological solutions. These activities were carried out at the Research Center in collaboration with various entities, including Turin’s Politecnico University and the Eifer Institute in Karlsruhe, Germany. In this field, Edison participates in several research projects both at the national and European level.

Advanced Photovoltaic Technologies

Construction of the Altomonte (CS) testing facility was completed in 2009. This facility is being used to field test systems based on different technologies, both commercial and developmental. The systems currently installed at this facility include both conventional silicon-based modules and more innovative thin-film modules, as well as two systems with photovoltaic concentrators. This facility is linked with the Trofarello Research Center, where test data are collected and processed in real time. Work is continuing on a research project for the development of innovative optics for concentration systems with high efficiency third-generation cells.

Advanced Energy Materials

Activities involving the development of a proprietary Edison technology for the production of a magnesium diboride (MgB2) superconductor continued at the CNR IENI Institute in Lecco and at the Trofarello Research Center, with the introduction of new superconducting components in the form of inlays on metal substrates. Edison is currently collaborating with the ENEA superconductivity laboratory in Frascati on the development of electrical application of this material in the field of renewable energy sources. Lastly, the Group launched, jointly with EDF’s R&D organization, a study of materials and the corresponding thin-film deposition techniques for applications in high-temperature fuel cells.

Energy Efficiency

In 2009, in an effort to support the business initiatives of the Energy Efficiency and Sustainable Development Business Unit, the Research and Development Department studied and assessed a number of technologies related to the energy efficiency field. Some of these technologies included electrical and gas fired heat pumps, small cogeneration facilities and various innovative solutions applicable to lighting and air conditioning. Many of these technologies, particularly with regard to operation and network integration, together with metering systems, which are an essential component of any energy efficiency solution, are also part of a series of technological solutions collectively referred to as the “smart grid”.

Carbon Capture and Storage

This technology has been the subject of intense scrutiny and monitoring. Projects carried out in 2009 included in-depth studies on the application of CO2 capture techniques to CCGT (Combined Cycle Gas Turbine) systems and a preliminary assessment of the geological CO2 storage potential in Italy.