My passion for the power industry stems from its tangible impact on society. I am particularly fascinated by its potential in decarbonization efforts and expanding access to affordable and sustainable energy resources. The complexity and interconnectedness of power systems intrigue me, driving my commitment to contribute towards a reliable, efficient, and greener future. Through my expertise in control engineering, I aim to push boundaries, address challenges, and pave the way for innovative solutions in the renewable energy sector.
Who am I
I am Parisa Nikdel, a Ph.D. candidate at RMIT University. My academic journey in Electrical Engineering, with a focus on control systems, has driven my passion for the power sector. I am fascinated by its role in societal impact, especially in decarbonization efforts and equitable energy access. My research centers on dynamic operating envelopes in power distribution, striving for sustainable energy solutions. Beyond academia, I advocate for diversity in STEM fields, particularly in electrical engineering, aiming to break barriers and inspire future generations. My interests lie in renewable energy applications and leveraging control engineering for a greener future.
Why I chose a career in power
I chose the power industry because of its profound impact on society and the environment. Electricity is at the heart of modern life, powering homes, businesses, and industries, and its accessibility and sustainability are paramount for global development. Witnessing the pressing need for cleaner, more efficient energy solutions, I was drawn to the industry's potential in driving decarbonization efforts and expanding access to renewable resources. The dynamic nature of power systems, with their intricate network of generation, transmission, and distribution, presents endless opportunities for innovation and problem-solving. I am passionate about leveraging my expertise in control engineering to contribute meaningfully to this transformative sector, working towards a greener, more sustainable future for generations to come.
Where it all started
I pursued both my bachelor's and master's degrees in Electrical Engineering in Iran, with a specialization in control systems. My academic journey equipped me with a solid foundation in electrical engineering principles, while my focus on control systems provided me with specialized knowledge and skills essential for addressing complex challenges in the power industry. This educational background laid the groundwork for my Ph.D. research at RMIT University, where I continue to delve deeper into the intricacies of power distribution and renewable energy applications. I have actively participated in numerous talks, seminars, and workshops focusing on control systems, power networks, and project management. These engagements have allowed me to broaden my knowledge base and stay updated on the latest advancements in the field. Additionally, I am thrilled and honored to have been a fully-funded scholarship recipient for the 2024 Powerful Women Leadership Program by the Australian Power Institute (API). This opportunity enabled me to engage with industry leaders, deepen my understanding of power sector leadership, and contribute to meaningful discussions. My participation in the program has been a transformative experience, and I am grateful for the support that has further enriched my journey in the power industry.
My work experience.
What's next?
Currently, I am a Ph.D. candidate at RMIT University, actively engaged in research on dynamic operating envelopes (DOE) in the context of power distribution. My work involves applying control engineering and distributed optimization principles to address voltage and thermal limit violations in distribution networks. I am dedicated to pushing the boundaries of sustainable energy solutions through my research endeavors. What excites me most about the future of the power industry is its potential to drive transformative change towards a more sustainable and equitable world. The rapid advancements in renewable energy technologies, coupled with innovations in grid management and energy storage solutions, offer unprecedented opportunities to decarbonize our energy systems and mitigate climate change. I am particularly enthusiastic about the increasing focus on distributed energy resources (DERs) and smart grid technologies, which empower consumers to actively participate in the energy transition. Furthermore, the growing emphasis on diversity, inclusivity, and collaboration within the industry signals a positive shift towards building a more resilient and adaptable energy ecosystem. Overall, I am optimistic about the power industry's ability to foster innovation, foster resilience, and create a more sustainable future for generations to come.