Optimal Operation of Microgrids with High Penetration of Renewable Energy Sources and Energy Storage Systems

The UK government’s commitment to cost-effective renewable energy as part of a diverse, low-carbon and secure energy mix requires consideration of gas and low-carbon transport fuels, nuclear power, carbon capture and storage, and renewable energy to provide energy security. In order to meet decarbonisation objectives and bring green growth to all parts of the UK, the UK Renewable Energy Roadmap requires implementation of renewable energy at around 15% by 2020.

This increase in installed renewable energy sources capacity in the network introduces several challenges to distribution network operators and planners, including voltage stability, system efficiency and system reliability.

The aim of this project is to design and develop a tool/model for operation of microgrids within a market environment with high penetration of renewable energy sources and energy storage systems considering smart grid technologies in order to reduce the operational cost and energy losses. Big-Data Analytics techniques are utilised to model the uncertainties related to renewable energy sources and load demand.

The successful candidate should have (or expect to achieve) a minimum of a UK Honours degree at 2.1 or above (or equivalent) in relevant engineering discipline (e.g. Renewable Energy, Mechanical, Electrical, Power, Civil/Structural) or Applied Maths.
Applicants are expected to have a good background knowledge in power system analysis, uncertainty modelling, and optimisation and Big-Data analytics techniques. Essential: Power system analysis and optimisation techniques and a good software knowledge in GAMS and MATLAB.