Details:

• Date: 08 November 2023

• Time: 14.00 pm – 16.00 pm

• Venue: Y3 (Engineering Building) – G26 & Zoom

• Organizer: University of Birmingham IEEE Student Branch

Abstract:

This distinguished lecture will focus on electrifying green infrastructure power conversion, including grid of the future with renewables and energy storage integration, HVDC/MVDC and FACTS, Intelligent Energy Router and microgrid; fast EV charging infrastructure; green hydrogen production; and data center power solutions. These areas represent the latest innovations in power systems and infrastructure and are critical to realizing a sustainable energy future.

Prof. Zhang will share his research findings and experience in these key areas, delving into the application of HVDC/MVDC and FACTS technologies to improve the efficiency and stability of power transmission, as well as the concept of smart energy routers and microgrids for a more resilient and reliable energy supply. This lecture will also look at the development of electric vehicle charging infrastructure to facilitate the spread of clean transportation and explore innovations in green hydrogen production and data center power solutions.

Attendees will learn about the cutting-edge technologies and opportunities for the future of power conversion and green infrastructure, and their great potential for a sustainable energy future. This lecture will provide an invaluable opportunity for researchers, engineers, policy makers, industry leaders and others to discuss how to advance green infrastructure for a clean and sustainable future.

Speaker Profile:

Prof. Richard Zhang is a professor with the Center for Power Electronics Systems (CPES) and a Fellow of IEEE. Currently, Prof. Zhang was named the Hugh P. and Ethel C. Kelly Chair at Virginia Tech.

Prof. Zhang was the former Chief Technology Officer of GE Grid Integration Solutions based in the UK.  During 1998-2008, he was with GE Global Research Center in Niskayuna, New York, leading power electronics research serving all GE industrial businesses, such as GE Renewable Energy, Oil & Gas, Aviation, Healthcare, etc. Subsequently, during 2009-2020, he held several executive technology and business leadership positions based in Paris, Shanghai, and Stafford, UK.  Over the years, Prof. Zhang led large global R&D teams in different GE organizations, won large research programs with government agencies such as DARPA and DOE, created major business research initiatives, and defined and led an extensive business R&D portfolio.

Prof. Zhang has 54 journal and conference publications and invited talks, including 4 IEEE Transaction and Conference Award Papers. Prof. Zhang has over 115 global patents granted or pending in 42 patent families.

Prof. Zhang’s current research focuses on Electrified Green Infrastructure Power Conversion, including grid of the future with renewables and energy storage integration, HVDC/MVDC and FACTS, Intelligent Energy Router and microgrid; fast EV charging infrastructure; green hydrogen production; and data center power solutions.

Registration link: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/740236385957?aff=oddtdtcreator