Professor Fuwen Yang is a leading researcher in the field of control systems and smart energy at Griffith University. He currently leads the Smart Energy Systems Group within the Institute for Integrated and Intelligent Systems, addressing the integration of renewable energies and the control of microgrids. His research focuses on networked control systems, fault detection and diagnosis and optimising microgrids. Professor Yang has published over 300 journal and conference papers and has supervised numerous doctoral students in these areas. His work contributes to advancements in sustainable energy systems and smart infrastructure and aligns with the Australian Government commitments and investments in low emissions technologies.
Professor Yang is currently leading the Feasibility study of Net-Zero microgrids project for the Qld Decarb Hub. We asked him a few questions about himself and his research:
- Describe your research project in a single sentence.
My research project is investigating the feasibility of distributed energy systems-Microgrids that balance grid imports and exports to support Australia’s net-zero vision for 2050.
- Can you introduce the key members of your research team and briefly explain what their roles/expertise and contributions to the project are (this includes you!)?
Our research team consists of:
- Prof. Fuwen Yang, the principal investigator providing overall guidance and expertise in advanced control and optimisation;
- Prof. Junwei Lu, who advises the project with his extensive experience in electrical power systems and renewable technologies;
- Dr. Mohammad Sanjari, who contributes specialist knowledge in power systems and renewable integration;
- Adland Pradana, a research fellow conducting simulations, data analysis, and implementation of the proposed methods
- What first inspired you to take on this research topic?
Our inspiration comes from the abundance of solar energy in Queensland and Australia’s national goal of achieving 100% renewable energy. We identified that a key missing link is effective energy management to deliver the right amount of energy at the right time. This motivated us to develop an energy management algorithm tailored to the Queensland context.
- What do you hope your research will contribute to the world?
Many regions around the world, such as parts of Africa and the Middle East, face conditions similar to Queensland with abundant solar resources. By using Queensland as a case study, I hope this research can demonstrate a successful model of net-zero energy management that can be replicated in other regions globally.
- What would make the biggest difference in helping your research have impact?
The biggest difference would come from implementing profile-based energy management, which allows the required capacity of PV and battery systems investment cost to be significantly reduced, without compromising the objective of achieving annual net-zero emissions.
- If you could amplify one positive trend already underway, what would it be and why?
One positive trend I would amplify is the growing awareness among governments, utilities, and communities about the importance of transitioning to green energy, as this collective commitment is essential to securing a sustainable future for the planet.
- What does your dream job look like?
My dream job is one where I can apply my knowledge in the energy sector not only to support my family but also to contribute to a better world. I envision a future where renewable energy becomes so affordable that scarcity is eliminated, reducing competition and conflict, and ultimately helping create a more peaceful world where everyone’s basic needs are met.
- What does an ideal non-working day look like to you?
An ideal non-working day for me is one spent relaxing in nature, enjoying the environment while reflecting on philosophical questions such as why we are here, how we got here, and where we are going.
- In your opinion, what is the single best thing anyone can do to support decarbonisation?
In my opinion, the single best thing anyone can do to support decarbonisation is to practice mindfulness in daily actions such as recognising that every use of energy has an environmental cost. Small choices, such as avoiding unnecessary electricity use or choosing public transport over a private car, can collectively make a significant impact.
- What’s one fun fact about you?
A fun fact about me and our team is that we come from diverse backgrounds and different parts of the world, yet we work hand in hand with mutual respect to achieve a common goal.
Find out more about Prof. Yang’s research and publications here.
