What is Flex Power Solutions All About?
Flex Power Solutions is on a mission to decarbonise industrial heat in Ireland by cleverly converting excess renewable electricity into industrial steam and hot water. Their core idea? Use electrode boilers that soak up surplus wind and hydroelectric power, turning it into zero-carbon heat. It’s a smart way to reduce carbon emissions while making the most out of Ireland’s growing renewable energy resources. These boilers, developed in Norway, are designed to flexibly operate alongside variable renewable generation, helping industries cut emissions and save money at the same time. Plus, they help keep wind turbines spinning by minimising the need to turn them off when there’s too much power on the grid. It’s a win-win for industry, the grid, and the environment.
Main Benefits of Flex Power Solutions’ Technology
The benefits are pretty impressive, especially when you look at the numbers and features:
- Zero carbon emissions from steam production
- High pressure steam up to 85 barg, with up to 90 tonnes per hour (tph) capacity
- Boilers can ramp from cold to full load in less than 5 minutes
- Compact footprint and minimal maintenance required
- Flexible operation to complement variable renewable energy
- Electric boilers ranging from 0 to 60 MW (or 0 to 7.5 tph for low voltage units)
- Supports grid regulation and frequency services, earning revenue during high wind periods
- Helps industries achieve up to 30% carbon reduction while saving money
How Does It Work With Ireland’s Renewable Goals?
Ireland is aiming high — over 80% of all electricity from renewable sources by 2030. That’s a huge leap, involving tripling wind capacity and slashing greenhouse gas emissions by 51%. Flex Power Solutions fits perfectly into this vision by providing a way to use that renewable electricity more effectively. Instead of wasting excess power or curtailing wind turbines, their boilers turn that energy into valuable industrial heat. This not only supports the government’s “80 by 30” target but also helps industries transition away from fossil fuels, moving towards 100% steam production from gas-electric hybrid heating systems.
Technology Behind the Boilers
Two main types of boilers power this solution: the PARAT IEH high voltage electrode boiler and the PARAT IEL electric element boiler. The IEH model handles large-scale steam and hot water production, delivering up to 90 tph of high-pressure steam with a pure resistance load. It’s fast, efficient, and compact — perfect for industrial steam grids and district heating networks. On the other hand, the IEL boiler is designed for smaller-scale applications, offering up to 7.5 tph steam capacity with a robust, low voltage design. Both models are built to strict European standards and can operate flexibly to support grid stability and renewable integration.
Community and Economic Impact
Beyond the tech, Flex Power Solutions is about real-world benefits for communities. By securing jobs in areas where wind energy is constrained, they help prevent carbon leakage — that’s when industries move away to places with less strict emissions rules. Their approach maximises the use of existing electricity networks, which means lower costs for all consumers by reducing supplier charges, PSO, and grid fixed charges. Plus, by accelerating the adoption of renewable electricity in industry, they help Ireland hit its renewable energy targets faster and cheaper. It’s about creating a sustainable energy future that benefits everyone.
Project Impact on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy – promoting renewable electricity use for industrial heat
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure – developing advanced boiler technology
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – supporting district heating and steam grids
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production – reducing fossil fuel use and emissions
- SDG 13: Climate Action – contributing to significant greenhouse gas reductions
- SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth – securing jobs and supporting local economies
Looking Ahead: The Future of Industrial Heat in Ireland
Flex Power Solutions is paving the way for a cleaner, smarter energy future. By turning surplus renewable electricity into industrial heat, they’re tackling one of the toughest challenges in decarbonisation. Their flexible electrification approach not only helps industries cut emissions but also supports grid stability and economic growth. With upcoming events like the Ireland Electrified Conference 2024 and the Enterprise Ireland Sustainable Enterprise Summit, the conversation around renewable integration and industrial decarbonisation is heating up. It’s clear that solutions like these will play a key role in Ireland’s journey to a zero-carbon economy.
