Published:
Merlinda Andoni has won the Academic Award in the Young Professionals Green Energy Awards.
The Young Professionals Green Energy Awards 2018, organised and sponsored by ScottishPower Renewables, honoured ten up-and-coming green energy stars who can change the renewable energy industry for the better.
The event, at the Glasgow Science Centre on 24 May, brought together the renewable energy industry in Scotland to celebrate and recognise those who will be driving the evolution of Scotland's energy system.
Merlinda is a PhD student in the Smart Systems Group at Heriot-Watt's Institute of Sensors, Signals and Systems. She is working towards her PhD in Smart Grid Management and Renewable Energy, under the supervision of Dr Valentin Robu and credited him, not only for nominating her for the award, but for all his support and guidance.
Given the high profile of these awards in the energy industry, and the tough competition, it's really significant that Heriot-Watt has been recognised as having the best young academic in the energy space, in Scotland in 2018!
Merlinda's research is about generation curtailment, a crucial issue for renewable generators installed in remote areas of Scotland. This includes accurately forecasting the health of energy system assets and the applications of big data analytics, machine learning and artificial intelligence in the smart grid. She aims to explore artificial intelligence and game-theoretic techniques to actively manage electricity networks with increased penetration of renewable generation.
Claire Mack, Chief Executive of Scottish Renewables, said: “I'm very impressed by the level of talent showcased at the Young Professionals Green Energy Awards this year. The winners have shown skills beyond their years of experience and they're certainly punching well above their weight in their new careers. They are truly the best and brightest of our industry.
“What stands out for me is the dedication and professionalism shown by all of our shortlisted entrants. Their achievements absolutely demonstrate their commitment to both their careers and to the future of renewable energy.”