Research Seminar- Dr Matthew Deakin (Newcastle University)

Talk overview:

Extensive new distribution network capacity is required to enable low-carbon technologies to be connected to the grid to enable electrification of heat and transport. Rapidly falling costs of grid-connected power electronics has led to renewed interest in the use of network operator-owned power electronic devices (PEDs) as a solution to provide that increased network capacity. This talk will discuss the challenges that have slowed the uptake of PEDs and discuss potential solutions to enable widespread use. A novel hybrid, reconfigurable PED topology is proposed that reconfigures PED topologies on-the-fly to maximise utilization and therefore reduce costs. Finally, network-plus-PED design tools in development as part of the £8m “D-Suite” project with SP Energy Networks will also be discussed.

Speaker Bio: 

Matt Deakin received his PhD degrees in Engineering Science from the University of Oxford in 2020. He has been with Newcastle University since then, and from 2022 has held a Royal Academy of Engineering Research Fellowship. His research interests include the development of new technologies and methods to enable net zero power and energy systems.