Optimising power grid reliability and resilience in Africa through smart grid technologies and demand response
We are offering a self-funded PhD position exploring how smart grid technologies and demand response strategies can improve power grid reliability and resilience in Africa with the Department of Electrical and Power Engineering. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, so you can apply at any time.
If you have any questions about the project or would like to arrange an informal discussion, please reach out to Dr Ahmed F. Zobaa at ahmed.zobaa@brunel.ac.uk.
The project
This research will explore how smart grid technologies and demand response strategies can improve power grid reliability and resilience in Africa, where frequent outages and grid instability are ongoing challenges.
The study will focus on the integration of advanced metering infrastructure (AMI), automated demand response systems, and smart monitoring technologies to enhance grid performance.
Additionally, the research will assess how these technologies can be adapted to Africa’s unique energy infrastructure and socio-economic conditions, with policy recommendations to support the modernisation of power grids across the continent.
How to apply
If you are interested in applying for the above PhD topic please follow the steps below:
- Contact the supervisor by email or phone to discuss your interest and find out if you would be suitable. Supervisor details can be found on this topic page. The supervisor will guide you in developing the topic-specific research proposal, which will form part of your application.
- Click on the 'Apply here' button on this page and you will be taken to the relevant PhD course page, where you can apply using an online application.
- Complete the online application indicating your selected supervisor and include the research proposal for the topic you have selected.
Good luck!
This is a self funded topic
Brunel offers a number of funding options to research students that help cover the cost of their tuition fees, contribute to living expenses or both. See more information here: https://www.brunel.ac.uk/research/Research-degrees/Research-degree-funding. The UK Government is also offering Doctoral Student Loans for eligible students, and there is some funding available through the Research Councils. Many of our international students benefit from funding provided by their governments or employers. Brunel alumni enjoy tuition fee discounts of 15%.
Meet the Supervisor(s)
Ahmed Zobaa - Ahmed Faheem Zobaa is an experienced academic in Electrical Power Engineering, with degrees from Cairo University, the University of Exeter, and Brunel University London. His academic journey started at Cairo University, where he served in various roles including Instructor, Teaching Assistant, and Assistant Professor from 1992 to 2007. He then took on a role as a Senior Lecturer in renewable energy at the University of Exeter from 2007 to 2010, before moving to Brunel University London as a Senior Lecturer in power systems from 2010 to 2019. Currently, he is a Reader in electrical and power engineering and a member of the Brunel Interdisciplinary Power Systems Research Centre. His areas of expertise include power quality, renewable energy (including marine), smart grids, energy efficiency, lighting applications, and Education.
Related Research Group(s)
Brunel Interdisciplinary Power Systems - Power systems analysis for transmission and distribution networks, smart grids; congestion monitoring in transmission networks; simulation and analysis of new energy markets; optimisation of the design and operation of electrical networks; condition monitoring of power station and power system plant; energy-efficient designs for underground electric power cables.