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Sustainable energy and propulsion solutions | Rolls-Royce

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Sustainable energy and propulsion solutions

Sustainable energy and propulsion solutions

As we look ahead to a more sustainable future, we're focusing on combustion engines powered by sustainable e-fuels or second-generation biofuels. To make our engines as efficient as possible, we integrate them into complex hybrid drive systems and entire power generation networks. At the same time, we're developing fuel cell solutions to produce zero-emission electricity even more efficiently.

Combustion engines

Internal combustion engines will continue to play a critical role in powering most ships, the heaviest off-highway vehicles and power generation equipment. Now, the opportunity to use biofuels and e-fuels makes them a key part of the journey to net zero and significantly lowering emissions.

By 2023, we’ll have the ability to run our generator sets on a 25% hydrogen blend, steadily increasing this to 100% over time. Conversion kits will be available on-demand to enable gas engines already installed in the field to run on 100% hydrogen. In the marine sector, we’re also working to develop the use case for methanol.


Automation

At Rolls-Royce, we provide practical solutions that go beyond the engine. Our modern management systems control and monitor our engines, enabling them to perform more efficiently, safely and sustainably. Our advanced marine control system, NautIQ, provides reliable and efficient management and control solutions from bridge to propeller, while our microgrids use the smart, adaptive EnergetIQ control system to calculate the perfect balance of various energy sources at once.

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Energy Storage

One of the greatest challenges of the energy transition is ensuring the reliability of renewable energy sources such as sun and wind which can fluctuate with availability. At Rolls-Royce, we’ve developed EnergyPacks to store excess energy and provide a constant supply precisely when it’s needed, whether for grid stabilization, balancing peak loads or voltage equalisation.

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Our Products

Microgrids 

Our microgrids can be any combination of distributed energy resources ranging from renewables like solar and wind power to battery storage solutions and dependable combustion engines. At the heart of it all is a smart, adaptive control system that manages the way the individual power sources are deployed for optimal performance and efficiency. With our smart microgrids, fluctuations from renewable resources can be avoided, enabling constant power even when the sun isn’t shining and the wind isn’t blowing.

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Hybrid drive systems

As we transition to greener solutions, the market for hybrid power delivery systems to support combustion engines will continue to grow. Each of our hybrid systems for trains and ships involves a combustion engine, an electric motor and a battery, offering the best of both worlds with an electric motor taking over whenever zero-carbon, noiseless operation is required. When, on the other hand, when range is key, the diesel engine will swing into action.

Marine Solutions

Rail Solutions

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