December 12, 2023

APQRC showcases innovative research at annual "Electric Futures" exhibition

The Australian Power Quality Research Centre (APQRC) recently held its annual research showcase, titled "Electric Futures," at the University of Wollongong's Sustainable Buildings Research Centre (SBRC). The event provided a platform to explore power quality, reliability, and renewable energy integration, attracting industry professionals, researchers, students, and enthusiasts.

(Left) Sean Elphick, Research Coordinator, Australian Power Quality Research Centre. (Right) Professor David Currow, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Sustainable Futures) at the University of Wollongong.

Sean Elphick, Research Coordinator at APQRC, welcomed attendees, including industry partners, researchers, staff, students, industry liaisons, honorary and visiting fellows. Following Sean’s introduction, Professor David Currow, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Sustainable Futures) at the University of Wollongong, spoke passionately about the 30-year partnership between the University of Wollongong and APQRC, emphasising the critical role played by the Centre in advancing knowledge related to microgrids. He also extended a warm welcome to all attendees, setting a tone of collaboration and innovation for the event.

(Left) Professor Scott Ryan, Chief Safety, Asset, and Operating Officer at Endeavour Energy. (Right) Associate Professor Duane Robinson, Technical Director of the APQRC and Deputy Director of the SBRC

Professor Scott Ryan, Chief Safety, Asset, and Operating Officer at Endeavour Energy delivered an address that highlighted the outstanding contributions of the APQRC in the field of renewables. He took a moment to reflect on the invaluable collaboration between industry and academia, singling out the work of the centre’s own Duane Robinson and Sean Elphick. This address underscored the power of partnerships in driving innovation in the energy sector.

Associate Professor Duane Robinson, Technical Director of the APQRC and Deputy Director of the SBRC, expressed gratitude to APQRC’s PhD students for their dedication and hard work. He thanked the APQRC and SBRC teams, recognising their relentless efforts in fostering the enduring partnership between APQRC and Endeavour Energy. Duane's speech served as a reminder that impactful research is made possible through the dedication of individuals and teams who share a vision of a sustainable energy future.

Attendees of the annual showcase touring the APQRC’s facilities and engaging with PhD students about their research.

Following the presentations, attendees had the opportunity to view posters, engage in enlightening conversations with researchers and students, and embark on tours of the impressive facilities. These tours included a firsthand look at the load testing of 20 different types of loads for power system conditions, exploration of sustainable building facilities, and even a glimpse into the electrifying world of electrical testing areas, complete with a captivating hail gun experiment.

Ultimately, "Electric Futures" showcased APQRC's commitment to enhancing electricity supply quality and reliability and the University's dedication to sustainable building technologies and practices. The event exemplified the potential of academia-industry collaboration in shaping the energy landscape.