New Location for Future Solutions – Driving Innovation Forward

/in , /by

We are pleased to announce that the Future Solutions Research and Development Center has relocated to the Pomeranian Special Economic Zone within the Gdańsk Science and Technology Park, where it now manages the state-of-the-art MOLANOTE6 laboratory. 🔬

Enhanced Collaboration and Development Potential

This move marks a significant step forward. Collaborating with the Pomeranian Special Economic Zone (PSSE) opens new possibilities for Future Solutions. With access to modern infrastructure and the innovative MOLANOTE6 laboratory, our research unit gains a competitive edge in conducting research and development in areas such as:

  • Materials Research
  • Process Automation
  • Data Analytics

MOLANOTE6 – A Key Laboratory in Our Development Strategy

MOLANOTE6 is not only a modern research facility but also a central element in our company’s development strategy. It enables the execution of ambitious projects aimed at advancing zero-emission energy and implementing cutting-edge technologies in the region.

Expanding Innovation Potential

The relocation to the Gdańsk Science and Technology Park and collaboration with PSSE fosters innovation and the development of new technologies that meet market demands and support regional economic growth. It also presents an excellent opportunity to broaden our network and collaborate with universities and research institutions. 🎓

MOLANOTE6 Laboratory – Advanced Research and Standards Compliance

Through MOLANOTE6, our unit is equipped to conduct advanced research in electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) ⚡ and electronic device safety 🔒, ensuring compliance with EU standards for CE certification.

II Distributed Energy Congress – Kraków 2024: The Future of Polish Energy

/in , /by

From October 28-30, 2024, Kraków hosted over 2,000 participants at the 2nd Distributed Energy Congress, organized by the AGH University of Science and Technology. ECM and the Future Solutions Research and Development Center were honored to take part in this important event, engaging actively in discussions about the future of Poland’s energy sector.

The congress addressed key issues related to the energy transition, including the need for a lasting platform for cooperation between central government, local authorities, and the private sector. Participants emphasized that an effective energy transition must consider local needs while balancing climate goals, energy security, and economic competitiveness.

The event also provided an opportunity for younger generations to get involved in the energy debate. Over 400 young participants, including Energy Transition Ambassadors, actively participated in panels, workshops, and hackathons, highlighting their critical role in implementing sustainable energy solutions in the future.

The congress also showcased how the Małopolska region, through collaboration between local governments, universities, and businesses, is becoming a leader in energy innovation. The region focuses on developing eco-friendly solutions that improve quality of life, reduce CO2 emissions, and lower energy costs.

We look forward to the next edition of the congress, which will continue to foster crucial discussions and further develop ideas for the future of Polish energy.

Signing of the Letter of Intent regarding the Choczewo Energy Cluster

/in , /by

On October 30, 2024, representatives of Choczewo Municipality, the Future Solutions Research and Development Center, and ECM jointly signed a Letter of Intent, marking the start of a collaborative effort to establish the Choczewo Energy Cluster! This is another joint initiative by ECM, Future Solutions, and the local government, following the one in Władysławowo, aimed at energy transformation, enhancing security, and setting shared goals to achieve sustainable development.

The Choczewo Energy Cluster will be a modern unit focused on generating energy from renewable energy sources (RES), balancing and storing energy in green hydrogen. Its operation will be based on cutting-edge IT technologies. This initiative will significantly contribute to the decarbonization of the region and help reduce emissions.

The signed document lays the foundation for the cluster’s establishment, which, by integrating local resources and partnerships, will support the pursuit of energy self-sufficiency. An important aspect of the initiative is also the diversification of energy sources, which will improve the stability of energy supply and reduce costs for local consumers. The cluster is designed as an off-grid unit, with one of its main goals being to accommodate additional RESproduction units within the cluster.

Participation in the 7th Polish Conference for Hydrogen Energy and Technologies (PCHET 2024)

/in , /by

On October 7-8, 2024, we had the pleasure of participating in the 7th edition of the Polish Conference for Hydrogen Energy and Technologies (PCHET 2024). The combined teams of Future Solutions and ECM closely followed the presentations regarding the current state of the hydrogen transition in Poland.

During the thematic panels, several key issues were discussed, including:

• Future development of hydrogen projects
• Financing opportunities for hydrogen projects
• Challenges related to technology maturity and availability

At the conference, our team was represented by Jakub Goryszewski (Molanote 6), Bartłomiej Okoń (LabOne ECM), Dorota Janusz (PR), Małgorzata Holiat (internal system security), and Konrad Han (President of the Hydrogen Technology Institute, ecosystem advisor).

Over the course of these two intense days, we established many valuable contacts that can significantly contribute to the development of zero-emission, decentralized cluster energy systems being built within ECM.

Key Takeaways from Energy Days 2024

/in , /by

On October 2-3, 2024, the team from the Future Solutions Research and Development Center, along with ECM, participated in the Energy Days conference held in Katowice. As one of the most important events in the energy sector this year, it provided a platform for discussions on the key challenges facing the energy industry.

Main topics discussed during the conference:

• Energy Prices and Market Competitiveness
The rising costs of energy and their impact on competitiveness in both local and global markets.

• Energy Security in Poland
Discussions on ensuring stable and secure energy supplies in Poland over the long term.

• Development of Wind Energy
Focus on the development of wind energy infrastructure, both onshore and offshore, as a key component of the energy transition.

• The Future of Nuclear Energy
An analysis of the potential of nuclear energy as a stable and sustainable energy source for the future.

• Hydrogen in the Spotlight
One of the most exciting topics was the future of hydrogen as an energy carrier, with an emphasis on its critical role in decarbonizing industry and the heating sector.

A Shared Future
Energy Days was not only an inspiring experience for us, but also an excellent opportunity to establish new contacts and exchange innovative ideas. Looking ahead, it is clear that the challenges we face require immediate action and collective engagement.

Stay with us as we continue our efforts toward a sustainable energy future.

Władysławowo Establishes Energy Cluster – an Innovative Solution on a European Scale!

/in , /by

Władysławowo, 17.09.2024 – The authorities of Władysławowo and the Research and Development Center Future Solutions, in partnership with key economic entities, have signed a letter of intent to establish the Władysławowo Energy Cluster. This joint project has the potential to become one of the most innovative energy solutions not only in Poland but also on the European stage. The cluster will promote renewable energy sources (RES) and advanced energy technologies, paving the way for sustainable development and the decarbonization of the region.

 

Innovative Solutions on a European Scale

The Władysławowo Energy Cluster stands out with its comprehensive approach to energy – by integrating local energy resources, businesses, and communities, it aims to become a pioneer in the field of decentralized prosumer energy. The application of modern technologies, such as BIPV (Building Integrated Photovoltaics), hydrogen systems, and CO2 capture installations, makes this project one of the most advanced energy initiatives in Europe.

The primary goals of the cluster focus on renewable energy and sustainable development. Specifically, these include:

  • Diversifying energy sources and increasing energy security through the development of local RES resources.
  • Reducing emissions through investments in green technologies and modern energy management and accounting systems.
  • Innovation on a European scale – the implementation of hydrogen and RES technologies will position Władysławowo as a leader in sustainable development.
  • Promoting the region and creating a model energy framework for other cities in Europe.
  • Establishing sustainable development – phasing the cluster’s development and increasing its potential will allow the region to follow a path of sustainable growth and gradually reduce its carbon footprint.

Who is behind the Cluster?

Key partners have joined the initiative, including the Władysławowo City Hall, Abruko Sp. z o.o., Research and Development Center Future Solutions Sp. z o.o., Ekowik Sp. z o.o., and ECM Sp. z o.o. This collaboration will enable the effective implementation of solutions that will transform the region into an energy model of the future.

The project schedule anticipates the completion of key conceptual work and the signing of the cluster agreement by the end of 2024. The use of advanced technologies employing RES, green hydrogen, and CO2 capture installations, along with the implementation of innovative IT systems, will accelerate the region’s energy transition.

By establishing the Energy Cluster, Władysławowo sets new standards for sustainable development and demonstrates that even small regions can contribute to the green transformation in Europe.

A Test Like No Other – A Summer Research Project with a Wink

/in /by

A Used Toyota Mirai from the US: When Age is Just a Number, and Hydrogen Has More Energy Than Coffee on a Monday!

On a warm, sunny afternoon, with the scent of fresh grass in the air, the R&D Center Future Solutions and ECM teams decided to do something unprecedented – test a first-generation, used Toyota Mirai. With 75,000 kilometers on the odometer, this hydrogen-powered car faced its most critical reviewers – both the male and female members of the team. To keep things fair and avoid potential arguments over the car’s paint color, everyone had their own task: from thoroughly assessing seat comfort to carefully listening to the sound of the drive. Or rather – the lack of it, since the Mirai drives almost silently.

8 Years and Still Shining!

At first glance, it’s clear that the Toyota Mirai hasn’t succumbed to the passage of time. An eight-year-old car? Most vehicles of that age would show wear and tear, but not the Mirai! Its exterior still looks futuristic, and the interior – oh, that interior – felt more like the cockpit of a spaceship than a car ready for a budget vacation in Podkarpacie.

“This really feels like a ship from Star Wars! All it’s missing is R2-D2,” said our tester, Dorota, as she used the touchscreen climate control, which worked as smoothly as the day it left the factory. The Mirai is packed with technology that many new cars can only dream of.

Refueling – Quicker Than Making a Coffee

The part of the test that we were most anxious about – refueling the hydrogen-powered car – turned out to be… lightning fast! Filling up the Toyota Mirai took less time than our usual coffee break (including the selection of lactose-free milk). The process was simple, clean, and – most importantly – fast.

“I don’t know why I thought it would be more complicated!” remarked Dorota Janusz, our female tester, who handled the refueling with ease.

And that’s it? Refueling the Mirai is as quick and simple as popping a capsule into a coffee machine. But instead of a caffeine boost, the car gets clean, eco-friendly power. And it’s truly eco-friendly – the only emission is… water.

You might expect a car with eight years on the road and 75,000 kilometers under its belt to show signs of wear. Not at all! The Toyota Mirai drove as smoothly as if it had just rolled out of the showroom. Its reliability left a strong impression on us – not once did it hesitate or give us any cause for concern.

However, the hydrogen refueling infrastructure is still an issue. Fortunately, the ECM ecosystem project includes plans to equip each cluster with hydrogen refueling stations. The project, codenamed SHES, will be detailed on our website. I’ll just add that the first station will be built in the Energy Cluster LAB ONE in Gniewino.

Modernity in Old Bones

During our test, we realized that despite its age, the Toyota Mirai I is still a modern vehicle. It’s not just about its sleek design or advanced onboard systems – it’s the entire philosophy behind the car. Eco-friendly, quiet, and dynamic, the Mirai prioritizes both driver comfort and the environment, even cleaning the air as it drives.

Finances

Unfortunately, the cost of purchasing a new hydrogen vehicle is still high compared to conventional cars. Additionally, the cost per 100 kilometers can be significant. During our test, depending on driving style, the Mirai consumed between 0.8 and 1.4 kg of hydrogen. The average range was about 400 km. Despite this, we took the Mirai on a longer route. The price we paid for hydrogen was an average of 69 PLN per kilogram. The numbers speak for themselves!

That said, let’s not forget – this test car is used and costs only a third of the price of a new one. Refueling costs remain a challenge, but the decentralized ECM energy ecosystem offers a solution. It allows users to configure their own unique energy portfolios and generate energy independently. The system, through the Energy Exchange Platform Tron, enables energy use in any cluster and with any medium, including green hydrogen.

Conclusion

We all agreed after the test – the Toyota Mirai I deserves a medal for durability. It proved that even a hydrogen car can compete with younger vehicles on the market. And when it comes to reliability? The Toyota Mirai is unbeatable – age and mileage mean little when you’re dealing with such solid engineering.

The R&D Center Future Solutions and ECM Teams

ML System Secures First Patent in the USA for Innovative Photovoltaic Cell Production

/in /by
We are pleased to announce that our key technology partner, ML System, has secured its first patent in the United States. The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) has granted the company a patent for the invention titled “Method for Manufacturing μ-Tandem Photovoltaic Cells and μ-Tandem Photovoltaic Cell Produced by This Method.” This significant achievement follows the receipt of a similar patent in Poland in July of this year.
We are excited to be building an innovative, international distributed energy system together with ML System.
For more information, please visit https://inwestycje.pl/biznes/ml-system-uzyskal-patent-od-europejskiego-urzedu-patentowego/

Photovoltaics at the Forefront of Change following the Building Directive

/in /by
The new EU building directive will mandate the installation of photovoltaic panels on new residential buildings after 2030. The solar panel industry awaits implementation details, recognizing both opportunities and challenges. Financial support and infrastructure modernization will be crucial for the effective implementation of the directive. However, concerns persist regarding the potential increase in component imports from China, which could impact domestic producers.

An Easter surprise for solar power in Poland!

/in /by
From Friday to Monday, PSE made decisions to limit the capacity of solar power, driven by excellent weather and lower energy demand during the holidays. A record disconnected capacity on Sunday reached 3237 MW! Despite the challenges, energy prices remained positive. Soon, thanks to the work conducted at Future Solutions, each of us will be able to store excess energy in green hydrogen!
Jak Pan wstawi będę wdzięczna za wiadomość.