Energy systems
An integral part of IESVic research is assessing impacts and viability of energy system structure. A range of model-based methods are used to investigate both short term system operations and long term energy mix evolution of large-scale and isolated electricity grids. These studies address the potential impacts of demand side management and smart grids; renewable energy integration; plug-in electric vehicle integration and; complementary energy carriers, such as electricity, hydrogen and biofuels.
Our energy systems activities encompass the following areas:
System integration
System integration considers the links between energy supplies, system structure, and the services being provided. Research topics include effects of linkages between regions, material flows, and technologies. IESVic collaborates closely with the International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis (IIASA). More information can be found here.
Operation and control
A valuable characteristic of energy systems is flexibility – the capacity to respond and adapt to events. The ability to provide reliable and high quality service is impacted by resource characteristics, demand dynamics, technology attributes, and communication and control systems. The development of smart, distributed, and robust operation and control strategies is needed.
Electrification
Electricity is one of many energy currencies which can be generated from a broad range of sources. A general strategy for decarbonization of our energy systems is to use low-carbon electrical infrastructure to displace fossil fuels. There is a need for better understanding of how future demands, variable supplies, and markets will shape our electrical infrastructure.
Carbon management
Carbon management is needed for climate change mitigation. Options include reducing our use of fossil energy supplies, capturing carbon emissions, and removing carbon from the atmosphere. The impacts and feasibility of these approaches are uncertain.
Environmental impact
Environmental impacts occur in different ways. While carbon emissions are one important consideration, we are examining other impacts of energy systems such as land-use, diversion of natural flows such as water, and disruption of ecosystem services.
IESVic currently hosts the The 2060 Project ,the Sustainable Systems Design Laboratory, the Energy Systems and Sustainable Cities group, the SESIT group, and the Applied Control and Information Processing Laboratory.