Designing infrastructure of new districts must consider raising synergies among the different energy networks: electricity and thermal networks, and transitorily gas networks. There is currently a trend towards the development of zero energy buildings and districts, or even positive districts, that can even inject energy into the energy system.
Distributed energy resources—distributed generation, storage, and electric vehicles—create opportunities to decarbonize the energy system. And, simultaneously, they pose new technical challenges, which can be addressed with increased flexibility (e.g., defining smart charging strategies, operating storage, enabling demand response, etc.).
The evolution of distribution networks towards a smart system that allows exploiting these synergies, and efficiently operating distributed energy resources is critical. For this paradigm shift, new models are necessary to analyze future scenarios and define strategic roadmaps; particularly, in developing models for planning and operation of thermal systems. This PhD and research position will model and link electricity distribution and thermal models to later analyze the impact of distributed energy resources in multi-energy systems.
The researcher will become part of the REDES research group, that has vast experience applying distribution network models in collaboration with renowned international institutions, such as NREL, MIT, the Joint Research Centre of European Commission, World Bank, Iberdrola, etc. The candidate will learn theoretical and practical knowledge about energy systems, electricity distribution networks, and distributed energy resources.
The candidate must have a master in Engineering and must have an advanced level of English. Advanced level in Spanish is valued. Knowledge of energy or power systems, distributed energy resources and/or computing languages will be an advantage.
Annual full-time contract for the development of this research line. In addition, training activities may be carried out. This modality allows the Research Assistant to establish a very close professional relationship with the institutions with which he/she collaborates. There will be an option to apply for a PhD if the performance is adequate. The Research Assistant is hired each year for a maximum period of 6 years. The gross salary for the first year is 25,896€ for the year 2023. In addition, the IIT covers 90% of the cost of training activities and the Research Assistant can enjoy all benefits offered to Comillas students (Sports, Cultural Activities, Library, etc.).
