RESEARCH

The research activity of the Department of Power Engineering covers the analysis, modelling and control of power system operation. Particular attention is given to challenges associated with the development of distributed generation and renewable energy sources, increasing requirements for network flexibility, and the use of advanced computational methods.

Power Systems and Networks

Research covers the modelling and analysis of transmission and distribution networks as well as local power systems. It includes power-flow and short-circuit studies, assessment of voltage and loading conditions, analysis of contingency and emergency states, and evaluation of the impact of changes in network configuration and parameters on system operation.

Optimisation and Control of Network Operation

The Department develops methods for selecting actions that improve power-system operating conditions. This includes overload mitigation, voltage control, reactive-power control, generation redispatch and coordination of available control measures.

Renewable Energy Sources and Distributed Generation

An important area of research is the integration of renewable energy sources with power networks. Work focuses on their impact on voltage levels, network loading, grid-connection capability and the utilisation of existing power infrastructure.

Energy Storage and System Flexibility

Research also addresses the use of energy storage and other flexibility resources to improve network operating conditions. Topics include overload and voltage-deviation mitigation, increasing the capacity for RES integration, and assessing the available range of control actions under different system operating conditions.

Automation and Protection

The Department’s research includes power-system automation, protection and control and supervision systems. Work covers protection coordination, distribution-network automation, and voltage and power control schemes.

Computational Methods and Artificial Intelligence

Power-system studies use optimisation methods, data analysis, artificial intelligence and machine-learning tools. Research addresses both the potential applications of these methods in system assessment and optimisation and their accuracy, limitations and usefulness in decision-support systems.

Reliability and Power Quality

The Department’s research profile also includes power-system reliability, power quality, and the operation of power equipment and networks.