Keynote Lectures
Keynote — Online monitoring of the smart grid: Distributed system of sensors and devices
Andrea Bonetti, Megger Sweden AB – Sweden
Abstract:
This keynote for GPECOM 2024 builds upon the groundbreaking revelations made at GPECOM 2021, where a revolutionary approach to the interaction between a digital twin relay and a digital twin test set was introduced. The presentation unveiled an innovative “open loop test method” that demonstrated the remarkable capabilities of digital twins, showcasing features such as “virtual relay testing,” “virtual technical support,” and “relay protection training.”
In the described method, the digital twin test equipment simulates real-world power system scenarios, preparing the test for the digital twin relay. Virtual injection of test quantities into the digital twin relay creates a genuine testing environment, and retrieving test results involves querying the relay’s front Human-Machine Interface, event recorder, or disturbance recorder. This contrasts with traditional methods, where data is directly queried from the relay under test. The new approach streamlines the process by allowing the digital twin relay test set to declare results, generate comprehensive test reports, and facilitate future test repetition and comparison: the so called “closed loop test method”, where the protection digital twin relay and digital twin test set interact bidirectionally. This innovation required significant research and development efforts to seamlessly enable two-way interaction between the digital twin relay and the digital twin test set.
Despite being in its early stages, this groundbreaking technique holds great promise, especially for less experienced testing engineers who can now practically replicate their traditional workflows in the virtual realm. A crucial aspect is the preservation of classical roles in closed-loop testing, where the relay test set provides the test method, test signals and test results, and the protection relay responds as if directly connected to the electrical system it aims to protect.
The keynote promises a deep dive into the technical intricacies of this pioneering approach, coupled with an online demonstration that unveils the seamless synergy of these elements. As an attendee, you are invited to explore the future of relay testing and witness firsthand the exciting possibilities that this innovative methodology brings to the industry. Join us in shaping the future of technology at GPECOM 2024!
Biography
Andrea Bonetti is a senior specialist in power system protection and IEC 61850 applications based in Sweden. With a master’s degree in electrotechnical engineering from Sapienza University of Rome, Italy, he has over 30 years of experience in the field. Andrea has worked as an HV power system protection specialist at HV relay protection manufacturer Hitachi Energy Grid Automation Products (former ABB) in Västerås, Sweden for 18 years, and at Megger in Stockholm for 9 years as a product manager and technical specialist for relay test equipment and IEC 61850 test set and tools. He has also worked as a consultant in power system protection and IEC 61850 applications for 5 years. Andrea holds a patent in the area of IEC 61850 testing tools and algorithms.
Andrea is the chair of the TC 95, active member of the IEC TC 95/MT 4 and TC 95/WG 2 committees for standardization of protection functions and IEC 61850 application for protection. He has received the IEC 1906 Award in 2013 and is a guest lecturer at KTH (Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm) for IEC 61850 for Substation Automation applications since 2008.
Andrea is a teacher for IEC 61850 for protection and control applications for the private Swedish University Lernia (Yrkeshögskola) since 2021, and also at STF for Reläskydd III – Idriftagning av reläskydd (commissioning of protection relays) from April 2024.
For a detailed profile, please connect with Andrea on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/bonetti-andrea/ )
Keynote — Grid Forming Control at IBR Based Power Systems
Gokhan Onal, Lean Power Solutions, Turkiye
Abstract:
As the global energy landscape evolves, the integration of Inverter-Based Resources (IBRs) into power systems is becoming increasingly crucial for achieving sustainable, resilient, and efficient electrical grids. This transition, driven by the adoption of renewable energy sources and the shift away from conventional synchronous generators, introduces new challenges in maintaining grid stability and reliability. This keynote presentation explores the transformative potential of Grid Forming Control (GFC) strategies in addressing these challenges, particularly in the context of High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) systems, wind turbines, storage systems, and solar inverter technologies.
We begin by outlining the shifting dynamics of power systems towards a greater reliance on IBRs, highlighting the critical role of GFC in ensuring grid stability through voltage regulation, frequency stability, and the integration of distributed energy resources.
Through detailed case studies and simulations, we demonstrate the effectiveness of GFC in bolstering the resilience of the grid, facilitating higher renewable energy penetration, and ensuring operational continuity under diverse conditions. Additionally, the practical aspects of GFC implementation, including the latest technological advancements and strategies for integration into global power grids, are addressed.
Concluding, our presentation emphasizes the critical importance of Grid Forming Control in the modernization and sustainability of power systems. By showcasing its application across a variety of technologies and systems, we highlight GFC’s pivotal role in advancing the global transition towards more renewable, reliable, and efficient energy networks.
Biography
Gökhan ÖNAL received his M.Sc. degree in Electrical Engineering from the RWTH University, Germany in 2010. He worked at Siemens AG on the development of HVDC&FACTS systems till 2016. Then, he has co-founded Lean Power Solutions and he has been providing solutions to manufacturers, network operators and consulting companies. He has been involved in the development of several wind turbine, HVDC, STATCOM and similar technologies. Currently, he is the managing director of Lean Power Solutions and LPSchain.
Keynote — to be announced
Muhammad H Rashid, Florida Polytechnic University, USA
Abstract:
Biography
Prof. Muhammad Rashid (Fellow IET (UK), Life Fellow IEEE) is employed by the Florida Polytechnic University as a Professor and Chair of Electrical and Computer Engineering. Previously he worked for the University of West Florida, Pensacola, Florida as a professor of electrical and computer engineering and is currently. He was also employed by the University of Florida as Professor and Director of UF/UWF Joint Program. Rashid received B.Sc. degree in Electrical Engineering from the Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology, and M.Sc. and Ph.D. degrees from the University of Birmingham in UK. Previously, he worked as Professor of Electrical Engineering and the Chair of the Engineering Department at Indiana University- Purdue University at Fort Wayne. Also, he worked as Visiting Assistant Professor of Electrical Engineering at the University of Connecticut, Associate Professor of Electrical Engineering at Concordia University (Montreal, Canada), Professor of Electrical Engineering at Purdue University Calumet, and Visiting Professor of Electrical Engineering at King Fahd university of Petroleum and Minerals (Saudi Arabia), as a design and development engineer with Brush Electrical Machines Ltd. (England, UK), a Research Engineer with Lucas Group Research Centre (England, UK), a Lecturer and Head of Control Engineering Department at the Higher Institute of Electronics (in Libya & Malta).
Dr. Rashid is actively involved in teaching, researching, and lecturing in electronics, power electronics, and professional ethics. He has published 22 books listed in the US Library of Congress and more than 160 technical papers. His books are adopted as textbooks all over the world. His book, Power electronics has translations in Spanish, Portuguese, Indonesian, Korean, Italian, Chinese, Persian, and Indian edition. His book, Microelectronics has translations in Spanish in Mexico and in Spain, Italian, and Chinese.
Dr. Rashid has worked as a regular employee or consultant in Canada, Korea, United Kingdom, Singapore, Malta, Libya, Malaysia, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. Dr. Rashid has traveled to almost all States in USA and many countries to lecture and present papers (Japan, China, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Taiwan, Malaysia, Thailand, Singapore, India, Pakistan, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Libya, Jordan, Egypt, Morocco, Malta, Italy, Greece, United Kingdom, Brazil, and Mexico). He is a Fellow of the Institution of Engineering & Technology (IET, UK) and a Life Fellow of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE, USA). He was elected as an IEEE Fellow with the citation “Leadership in power electronics education and contributions to the analysis and design methodologies of solid-state power converters.” Dr. Rashid is the recipient of the 1991 Outstanding Engineer Award from The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE). He received the 2002 IEEE Educational Activity Award (EAB) Meritorious Achievement Award in Continuing Education with the following citation “for contributions to the design and delivery of continuing education in power electronics and computer-aided-simulation“. He is the recipient of the 2008 IEEE Undergraduate Teaching Award with citation: For his distinguished leadership and dedication to quality undergraduate electrical engineering education, motivating students and publication of outstanding textbooks. He is also the recipient of the IEEE 2013 Industry Applications Society Outstanding Achievement Award.
Dr. Rashid is a Distinguished Lecturer for the IEEE Education Society and a Regional Speaker (previously Distinguished Lecture) for the IEEE Industrial Applications Society. He also authored a book on “The Process of Outcome-Based Education – Implementation, Assessment and Evaluations”.2012 UiTM Press, Malaysia.
Keynote — Ambitious Renewable Scenarios – Technical & Regulatory Challenges
Osman Bulent TOR, EPRA Energy, Turkiye
Abstract:
A methodology to quantify impacts of integrating large scale renewable energy sources to power grids will be presented. The methodology is based on market and network simulations in hourly resolution along a target year in which the impacts of large scale renewable energy sources are intended to be addressed. The market simulation optimizes unit commitment and dispatch of the generation capacity fleet based on a merit order assumption. It considers short- and long-term generation constraints of the power plants and spinning reserve requirement of the grid. Grid constraints are ignored in the market simulation to represent the market tendency. The results of market simulation are assessed by network simulation which the grid constraints are considered, including line loadings and N-1 contingency of the grid. The violations are managed by optimizing the redispatch orders to conventional power plants in the capacity fleet and renewable generation curtailment. Battery storage systems and interconnection lines are considered as flexibility measures of the grid which contributes to managing violations. The proposed approach is tested in real power systems for the target years. Based on the results, a discussion will be made regarding technical & regulatory challanges under ambitious renewable scenarios and recommended solutions.
Biography
Dr. Tör received his B.S., M.S., and Ph.D. degrees in Electrical and Electronics Engineering from Middle East Technical University (METU), Ankara, Türkiye, in 1998, 2001, and 2008, respectively. He currently serves as the CEO of EPRA, of which he has been a founding partner since 2012. He is the author of several high-level journal papers in the power system area and served as the editor of the IEEE Transactions on Power Systems Journal during 2011-2013, specializing in power system planning area. Dr. Tör has also been involved in several international projects, specializing in market modeling, grid modeling, and analysis, integrating renewable energy sources into grids, the flexibility of power systems, and stability and dynamics of power systems.
Keynote — Resilient Operation of Power Systems under Disaster Conditions: Insights and Suggestions
Ozan Erdinc, Yildiz Technical University, Turkiye
Abstract:
In an era where climatic extremes and unforeseen disasters pose increasingly frequent challenges to our critical infrastructure, the resilience of power systems has never been more vital. This keynote speech will discuss the multifaceted issue of maintaining and operating resilient power systems under the duress of disaster conditions, offering both insights and actionable suggestions.
The presentation will commence with an examination of recent historical instances where power systems faced significant threats from disasters. This retrospective analysis will provide a foundational understanding of the types of stresses these systems encounter, highlighting the need for resilience in both design and operation. Subsequently, the current state of power system resilience, assessing the preparedness of existing infrastructure to withstand and recover from disruptive events, will be discussed. Afterwards, regarding the insights gained from the introductory analyses, some applicable suggestions and preliminary results will be assessed. Furthermore, the presentation will discuss the importance of collaborative approaches involving stakeholders at all levels, from policymakers to local communities, in ensuring the effective implementation of resilience strategies.
This keynote aims not only to inform but also to inspire action towards building power systems capable of withstanding the unforeseen challenges of tomorrow, ensuring a stable and secure energy future.
Biography
Prof. Dr. Ozan Erdinç (SMIEEE) received BSc, MSc, and PhD degrees from Yildiz Technical University (YTU), Turkey, in 2007, 2009, and 2012, respectively. Until May 2013, he worked in the industry for several years, holding various positions in the areas of electrical installations and renewable energy investments. In June 2013, he became a Postdoctoral Fellow in Portugal, under the EU-FP7 funded SINGULAR Project. Later, he joined the Department of Electrical Engineering at YTU, where I obtained the title of Associate Professor in April 2016. In September 2021, he was appointed as a Full Professor at the same university. He have also served as the Director of Energy Application and Research Center of YTU, and the Head of Alternative Energy Based Electric Systems Division at the Department of Electrical Engineering (YTU). Besides, he also served as the IEEE Power and Energy Society (PES) Turkey Chapter Chair between 2019 and 2023.
Currently, Prof. Erdinç is the Head of IT Department of YTU, Board Member of YTU Clean Energy Technologies Institute, and a Board Member at the Electrical Installation Engineers Association of Turkey. He is the Sole Editor of the book entitled “Optimization in Renewable Energy Systems” (Butterworth-Heinemann Press, 2017) and the Co-Editor of the book entitled “Pathways to a Smarter Power System” (Academic Press, 2019). He has over 150 international publications with an h-index of 30 according to WoS and 40 according to Google Scholar. He has supervised 4 PhD and 10 MSc theses and currently supervise over 10 graduate theses in the Electric Power System area. He has been the PI and Main consultant of 20 projects with different industrial partners, with project budgets reaching 3 million Dollars individually, and over 6 million Dollars in total.
Prof. Erdinç has served as the Honorary Chair, General Co-Chair, Technical Chair, and Technical Program Committee Member in several IEEE Sponsored or IEEE Co-sponsored conferences. He has given numerous keynote speeches and invited lectures in different international and national organizations, including IEEE sponsored/co-sponsored conferences. He was the recipient of the Turkish Science Academy Distinguished Young Scientist Award (TUBA GEBIP) in 2020, the IEEE Turkey Research Encouragement Award in 2021, and The Scientific and Technological Research Council of Türkiye (TUBITAK) Researh Encouragement Award in 2023. He is a Senior Member of IEEE. He served as an Editorial Board Member for IEEE Transactions on Sustainable Energy, and still an Editorial Board Member for IEEE Transactions on Intelligent Transportation Systems, IEEE Transactions on Systems, Man, and Cybernetics: Systems, IEEE Power Engineering Letters, IEEE Open Access Journal of Power&Energy, IEEE Access, IEEE Systems Journal, IET Smart Grid, IET Renewable Power Generation, IET Generation, Transmission&Distribution and Turkish Journal of Electrical Engineering&Computer Sciences.
Keynote — What 6G can Support and its Enabling Technologies
Qammer Abbasi, University of Glasgow, UK
Abstract:
Future wireless networks are expected be more than allowing people, mobile devices, and objects to communicate with each other. The sixth generation (6G) of mobile networks are envisioned to include high data rate applications and ultra-massive, connected things. This also includes bio and nano-internet of things (IoT) tele-operated driving, unmanned mobility, haptic communications, unmanned aerial vehicles, and many more. Given the size of nano-sensors, THz frequency is proposed to do various sensing activities at this scale. However, it will be ideal to use the same radio frequency for communications as well. Furthermore, THz is also proposed as an enabler of extremely high data rate applications in 6G communications. The talk will be focused on Terahertz antenna design and new technology, which is referred to as Reconfigurable Intelligent Surfaces (RISs) which will be enabler for future 6G communication in addition to joint communication and sensing feature of 6G with examples in healthcare.
Biography
Qammer H. Abbasi (SMIEEE, MIET, FRET, FRSA, FEAI, Industrial Fellow RAE, FIET), Professor of Applied Electromagnetics & Sensing with the James Watt School (JWS) of Engineering, Theme lead for Connecting People priority at JWS and deputy theme lead for Quantum technologies in the University’s flagship Advance Research Centre at University of Glasgow, UK. He has grant portfolio of £10M+ and contributed to more than 500+ leading international technical journal (including nature portfolio) and peer reviewed conference papers, 11 books and received several recognitions for his research including UK exceptional talent endorsement by Royal Academy of Engineering, Sensor 2021 Young Scientist Award, University level Teaching excellence award in addition to coverage by various media houses including Analog IC tips, Microwaves & RF newsletters, Vertical news, Pakistan Dawn news, BBC news, Scotland TV, Fiercewireless and many other media houses. Prof. Abbasi is an IEEE senior member and is chair of IEEE AP/MTT UK, Ireland and Scotland joint chapter. He is an Associate editor for IEEE Journal of Electromagnetics, RF, and Microwaves in Medicine and Biology, IEEE Sensors, IEEE Internet of Things, IEEE open access Antenna and Propagation, IEEE Journal Of Biomedical & Health Informatics and scientific reports. He is a committee member for IEEE APS Young professional, Sub-committee chair for IEEE YP Ambassador program, IEEE 1906.1.1 standard on nano communication, IEEE APS/SC WG P145, IET Antenna & Propagation and healthcare network. He is Fellow of Royal Society of Arts, Fellow of European Alliance of innovation and industrial Fellow of Royal Academy of Engineering.
Keynote — Synchronized Waveforms – A Frontier of Data-Based Power System and Apparatus Monitoring, Protection, and Control
Wilsun Xu, University of Alberta, Canada
Abstract:
Voltage and current waveforms are the most authentic and granular sources of information on the behavior of power systems. In recent years, it has become possible to synchronize waveform data measured from different locations of a power system. This development has enabled large-scale coordinated analyses of multiple waveforms over a wide area, which could unleash a set of new concepts, strategies, and tools for monitoring, protecting, and controlling power systems and apparatuses.
This keynote speech will present the state-of-the-art developments in the measurements and applications of synchronized waveform data, including monitoring devices, data characteristics, use cases, and comparisons with synchrophasor data. The speech will also share five strategies to discover and develop synchronized waveform-based applications over multiple application areas, from power system stability monitoring to apparatus condition assessment.
Biography
Dr. Wilsun Xu received Ph.D. from the University of British Columbia, Canada, in 1989. He worked in BC Hydro, Vancouver, Canada, for seven years before joining the University of Alberta, Canada, in 1996 as a faculty member. Dr. Xu has been conducting power quality research, education, and consulting for over 30 years. He was elevated to IEEE fellow for contributions to power system harmonics research in 2005 and was awarded the Power Quality Industrial Research Chair of the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada in 2008. His professional services include Editor-in-Chief for IEEE Transactions on Power Delivery (2014-2019) and Editor-in-Chief at Large for the five IEEE Transactions published by the IEEE Power & Energy Society (2019-2021). In recent years, Dr. Xu pioneered the research on power disturbance data analytics, a field that uses power quality data to support equipment and system condition monitoring. These activities have helped to establish the Power Quality Data Analytics Working Group of the IEEE Power & Energy Society in 2014.
Tutorials
Tutorial — Onboard Energy Storage in Railway: Current State and Future Trends
Emanuele Fedele, University of Naples Federico II, Italy
Abstract:
Among many transport sectors, rail already displays one of the lowest carbon footprints. However, many trains for freight and passenger transport are still powered by diesel engines all over the world. To tackle global climate challenges and adhere to worldwide road maps against carbon emissions, electrification of diesel-powered trains is the way. Traditionally, electric trains draw propulsion and auxiliary power from external feeding cables running overhead or at ground level. However, railway electrification requires high investment costs and significant modification to the existing infrastructure, which make it little attractive especially for medium- and low-trafficked routes. In some cases, external electrification may be even impossible to achieve due to physical or legal obstacles (as in case of narrow tunnels, areas of high historical and touristic relevance, or in presence of pre-existing overhead wires for signaling and telecommunications).
These requirements have encouraged rolling stock manufacturers to increasingly integrate alternative energy storage technologies onboard trains for partial or complete catenary-free operation with zero local emissions and without extra burdens or modifications to the existing railway infrastructures. Onboard Energy Storage Systems (OESS) used in rail vehicles include batteries, supercapacitors, and hydrogen fuel cell systems. Their use has been demonstrated by many trains already in trial or commercial service for several years. Indeed, the experience gathered by on-field applications and academic research outlines the significant advantages that OESS can bring to rail vehicles in terms of increased energy efficiency by braking energy recovery exploitation; reduced current absorption from an external feeder with positive effects on line voltage and pantograph lifetime; operation on non-electrified segments or routes with zero local emissions. However, the integration of OESS in freight and passenger trains poses several challenges related to their design, operation, reliability, safety, and cost, where the intrinsic limits of each technology can be further stressed by the demanding operational and regulatory conditions that are peculiar to the railway sector.
This tutorial will delve into the world of onboard energy storage technologies for rail vehicles, with a highlight on the current status of the railway sector in terms of energy usage, electrification, and OESS integration. The characteristics of batteries, supercapacitors, and fuel cells will be discussed and compared to understand the potential of each of these technologies and their typical applications to rail. The possible powertrain configurations of trains with OESS will be revised, and many real-case architectures will be shown together with their energy management concepts. The present challenges related to the adoption of OESS for trains will be discussed. Finally, the future trends and perspectives of OESS for trains in the scenario of a transition towards a climate-neutral rail transport activity will be discussed, together with an insight about the current tendencies of academic research in this field.
Biography
Dr. Emanuele Fedele received the Ph.D. degree in Information Technology and Electrical Engineering from the University of Naples Federico II, Italy, under the “National Operational Program (PON) – Research and Innovation 2014-2020” grant, with a thesis on the integration and control of non-conventional multi-port traction converters for rolling stock vehicles with onboard energy storage and fuel cell systems. During his Ph.D, he has collaborated with the Department of Electronic, Electrical and Systems Engineering at the University of Birmingham, UK, and with Hitachi Rail Italy S.p.A. company in Naples, Italy. His research interests encompass modelling, control, and integration of energy storage systems, power electronic converters, and electrical drives with application to multi-source propulsion systems in railway and aircraft transportation, wind energy conversion systems, and energy storage integration. He currently holds a position as Research Fellow at the Department of Electrical Engineering and Information Technology, University of Naples Federico II, Italy, where he is involved in lectures and research activities on power electronics and electrical machines for transportation and renewable energy production.
Tutorial — Exploring the Nexus of Electromagnetic Transients: Innovations and Challenges in Utility Systems for the Modern Era
Negar Dashti, Lean Power Solutions, Turkiye
Abstract:
The modern era of power systems is characterized by an increasing reliance on renewable energy sources, the integration of sophisticated electronics, and the digitalization of grid operations. These advancements, while pivotal for sustainability and efficiency, introduce complex challenges in managing electromagnetic transients (EMTs) in utility systems.
Electromagnetic transients are brief, yet significant variations in voltage and current within power systems, often induced by events such as lightning strikes, switching operations, and faults. These transients can adversely affect the reliability, efficiency, and safety of power systems, making their study and management paramount. As utility systems evolve, the traditional methods of EMT analysis and mitigation are being outpaced by the complexities introduced by distributed generation, variable renewable energy sources, and the proliferation of power electronics.
One of the primary challenges in this landscape is the accurate modeling and simulation of EMTs, which are critical for predicting the behavior of power systems under transient conditions. Advanced computational tools and techniques, such as time-domain simulation software and machine learning models, offer promising avenues for enhancing the precision and efficiency of EMT analyses. These technologies enable the detailed representation of grid components and the dynamic interactions within the system, providing insights into transient phenomena that were previously unattainable.
Furthermore, the integration of renewable energy sources introduces variability and intermittency into power systems, exacerbating the complexity of managing EMTs. Novel approaches are emerging to address these challenges.
The nexus of electromagnetic transient studies and utility challenges in the modern era is a dynamic and evolving field, marked by the convergence of traditional power engineering principles with cutting-edge technological innovations. Addressing the complexities of this landscape requires a holistic approach, encompassing advanced modeling and simulation techniques, innovative mitigation strategies, and the judicious integration of smart grid technologies. Through collaborative research and development efforts, the power systems community can forge novel pathways to enhance the resilience, efficiency, and sustainability of utility systems in the face of electromagnetic transients.
This tutorial is tailored for professionals, researchers, and academics in the power systems community seeking to navigate the challenges of electromagnetic transients in the era of renewable integration and digitalization. Engage with leading experts to explore the pathways toward resilient, efficient, and sustainable utility systems in the face of EMTs.
Biography
Negar Dashti, Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering, Istanbul Technical University, specializes in the technical aspects of electromagnetic transients in power systems. Her research focuses on leveraging intelligent methods for predicting switching over-voltages, crucial for system integrity and reliability. Negar’s academic background is complemented by her professional experience at Lean Power Solutions Consultancy Firm in Istanbul, where she has been involved in projects ranging from real-time simulations (RTDS) for transmission systems to the integration of renewable energy sources into the grid. Her technical expertise extends to HVDC systems, protection studies in high voltage power systems, and conducting electromagnetic transient analysis for the utilities and manufacturers. Her expertise encompasses power system analysis and simulation using advanced tools such as PSCAD, PSS/E, DIgSILENT, MATLAB. Furthermore, Dashti has contributed to the field through publications on topics like the modeling and analysis of power transformers, electromagnetic transient challenges of the utilities and demand management systems, showcasing her commitment to enhancing the efficacy and reliability of power systems amidst the growing incorporation of renewable energy sources.
Tutorial — Battery Modelling and Characterization: Challenges and Perspectives
Nicola Campagna, University of Palermo, Italy
Abstract:
Energy Storage Systems (ESS) play a vital role in the transition towards a clean and reliable energy future. Their benefits let them cover multiple areas, from grid-connected application to the industry and the automotive field. In particular, batteries are the most widely used technology for storing electricity, representing the key point on which much investment has been and continues to be focused. As for the grid-connected applications, ESS and batteries can increase the renewable energy integration, storing excess energy generated during peak production times (sunny days, strong winds) and release it when demand is high or when renewable generation is low. They can improve grid stability and reduce reliance in peak power plant. As for the automotive sector, batteries serve for different purposes of which the main one is to store the energy needed by the electric powertrain. From the analysis of these two sectors, it is possible to realize how wide the energy storage market is. Nowadays, research is focused on different aspects of them, such as new materials, Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), safety, applications, and modelling. The latter is a very complex and evolving field, as well as one of crucial importance, since reliable models allows for performance simulation under different operating conditions, design efficient and safe systems, design control algorithms for energy management and optimize storage systems for specific applications. The choice of the most suitable battery model depends on several factors: the specific application, the level of accuracy required, the computational resources available. The challenges in the field of battery modelling are related to different factors such as complexity of battery systems, lack of data and nonlinearities.
Based on the purpose of modelling, different types of models are available in the literature: thermal models, behaviour models, ageing models. For them, different approaches can be employed. An electrochemical approach provides a very accurate analysis of the system through equations describing chemical processes occurring inside a cell; analytical models, on the other hand, are simpler to implement, however, they suffer from low accuracy and often the equations employed do not have a physical match. Equivalent circuit modelling has the merit of being a trade-off between the previous ones, however, experimental tests are often needed for cell characterization, whereas the ones employing finite element analysis (FEA) are very accurate but require very high computational effort. All these approaches and methodologies can be a valid solution to predict the state of charge (SOC), the state of health (SOH), the thermal and electrical behaviour of the cell, or more generally to study the battery behaviour from different points of view. The challenges for researchers are represented by balancing complexity and accuracy, describing multiscale phenomena and generalizing theory with respect to the wide literature.
Biography
Nicola Campagna, received the M.S. and Ph.D. degrees in electrical engineering from the University of Palermo, Italy, in 2019 and 2023, respectively. In 2022, he joined the Electrotechnical Engineering Department of the Nova University of Lisboa working on the design of Dynamic Wireless Power Transfer Systems for Automotive. In 2019 he joined the Sustainable Development and Energy Saving Laboratory, University of Palermo, Italy, focusing his research activities on the design of power electronics converter and energy storage systems. In particular, his expertise encompasses isolated multi-port DC/DC converters, Hybrid Energy Storage Systems, hydrogen technology and battery modelling. He is actually lecturer in “Energy storage and charging systems” at the Master Degree of the University of Palermo, Italy. He is actually a researcher at the Department of Engineering, University of Palermo, Italy, working for the Sicilian Micronanotech Research and Innovation Center.
