Researchers from the Universities of Nottingham, Newcastle, and Bristol are set to receive a significant boost in their efforts to advance sustainable technologies, thanks to a £7 million grant awarded by the UKRI Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC). This funding will support a team led by Dr. Liliana de Lillo, a Senior Research Fellow at the University of Nottingham, alongside co-leads Dr. Xu Deng and Dr. Nick Simpson from Newcastle and Bristol universities, respectively. Together, they represent a multidisciplinary group of leading experts in areas such as power electronics, electric propulsion, thermal management, machine design, materials, and manufacturing.
As the world shifts towards renewable energy sources, sustainable electrification is poised to play a critical role. The UK government has set a target for low-carbon resources to account for 95% of energy generation by 2030. This transition will significantly increase the demand for electric generators and electric motors for propulsion, heating, cooling, and industrial processes. However, there is a substantial risk that this shift could lead to increased energy loss, CO2 emissions, and the consumption of precious raw materials in both the production and operation of generators and electric motors.
Currently, rotating motors consume 50% of the world’s electrical energy, yet the systems they power are often highly inefficient, resulting in considerable energy waste. By integrating motor drives, it is possible to decrease energy consumption by up to 55%. This research initiative will focus on overcoming technological barriers to enable the seamless integration of power converters with electric motors and generators, thereby addressing the challenges of sustainable electrification. The goal is to enhance efficiency and reduce weight in industrial and transportation applications, significantly lowering CO2 emissions during manufacturing.
The research will explore a range of innovative solutions, including quantum sensors, cryogenic cooling, rare earth-free motors, and integrated power electronics. The aim is to minimize energy waste and reduce the environmental impact throughout the lifecycle of these technologies, propelling progress towards achieving Net Zero emissions and long-term sustainability.
Dr. Kedar Pandya, EPSRC Executive Director for Strategy, stated, “Sustainable electrification is a crucial aspect of the EPSRC’s mission to support a low-carbon future and meet the UK’s net zero targets.” He emphasized that these innovative technologies and approaches are essential for reducing energy waste across various industrial sectors and cutting carbon emissions, thus contributing to a greener future for everyone.
This research program represents a pivotal moment in the ongoing quest for sustainable electrification solutions across all industrial sectors, highlighting the importance of renewable energy sources and electrification as key enablers in the drive to achieve Net Zero greenhouse gas emissions.
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