Energy Market Transition for Net Zero

As the world grapples with the urgent need to mitigate climate change and achieve a net-zero carbon emissions future, understanding and reshaping energy markets is of paramount importance. This interdisciplinary research project aims to investigate and model various aspects of energy systems to facilitate the transition towards a sustainable and low-carbon economy. By addressing key challenges such as carbon trading, capacity auctions, pricing mechanisms, consumer behaviour analysis, local energy design, and peer-to-peer energy trading, this project will contribute to shaping effective policies and strategies for a net-zero future. Research Objectives: The primary objective of this project is to analyse and model energy market transitions within the context of achieving a net-zero carbon emissions target.

Through detailed investigations, the successful candidate will delve into the following areas:

1. Carbon Trading: Explore the intricacies of carbon markets, analyse their effectiveness in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and propose improvements or alternative mechanisms.

2. Capacity Auctions: Investigate the design and impact of capacity auctions in incentivising the deployment of renewable energy sources, storage technologies, and grid flexibility measures.

3. Pricing Mechanisms: Develop novel pricing models that account for the intermittency of renewable energy sources, grid congestion, and other market conditions to achieve an efficient and sustainable energy market.

4. Consumer Behaviour Analysis: Examine consumer attitudes, preferences, and decision-making processes related to energy consumption and explore strategies to encourage sustainable energy choices.

5. Local Energy Design: Explore the potential of localised energy systems, including microgrids, energy communities, and district heating/cooling, and develop models to optimise their integration into the wider energy network.

6. Peer-to-Peer Energy Trading: Investigate the feasibility and impact of peer-to-peer energy trading platforms, analyse their benefits, challenges, and potential for fostering local energy resilience.

Requirements: 1. Applications are open to students that have a 1st class degree (or equivalent) or a master degree in a wide variety of scientific disciplines including Electrical Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Control Engineering, and Computer Science. 2. Applicants whose first language is not English will be required to demonstrate proficiency in the English language (IELTS 6.5 or equivalent). 3. Good programming skill, e.g., Python, Matlab, or Java, etc, and academic writting skill are necessary for this project. 

How to apply:

Those interested should send a CV, personal statement (outlining how their relevant experience would make them a strong candidate for the project), transcripts, and contact details of two referees to [Email Address Removed]