Data driven fault and stability analysis with inverter based assets (wind, solar and BESS)

About the Project

PhD in the EnerHy CDT which is an EPSRC-funded Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT) focusing on research and training in the areas of Renewable Energy and Hydrogen. The University of Strathclyde leads the wind/renewable energy training and research elements of the CDT programme. Funded by Statkraft and EPSRC, this 4 year this PhD studentship, at the University of Strathclyde is in the area of data analysis and electrical engineering. The role is for the third intake of the EnerHy programme which commences in October 2026.

Research project overview:

Statkraft is a leading provider of Stability Services GB with contracts with NESO to provide inertia, system strength, short circuit current and voltage control/MVAr under Pathfinder and related contracts. As the penetration of IBRs (inverter-based resources) e.g. Wind, Solar, BESS and Interconnectors increases on the grid, and displaces fossil and nuclear power with synchronous generators, the management of the GB grid for stability becomes more challenging. Statkraft’s Greener Grid Parks are delivering Stability Services to replace these displaced generators. Statkraft is unique in developing, owning and operating both BESS with Grid Forming Inverters and Synchronous Compensators to deliver these services as well as Wind and Hydro generation in GB. We are looking for a PhD candidate who can help us collect and analyse data from our operational plants (including wind power plants) and compare their performance in fault conditions to understand our technology options and offerings. We also seek to ensure that GB is robust against the risk of blackouts by having good visibility of how the system and its parts respond to faults, events and trips (unlike the recent Iberian experience). For example, Statkraft is the proposer of Grid Code Modification GC0181. There will also be potential to join up data in other Countries where Statkraft operates, including Norway and Ireland. Key skills will be power systems analysis using EMT models (PSCAD) and RMS (DIgSILENT), data collection, management, manipulation and processing.

Entry Requirements and further details:

This 4 year fully funded studentship is open to applicants with a first-class or upper second-class degree (or equivalent) in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Data Analytics or other relevant areas.

Programme Package and Funding

The studentship is for 4 years full-time, is fully funded with tuition fees at the UK rate covered and provides a tax-free stipend of £21,805 per annum. Additionally, £3,000 per annum is provided for consumables, travel, etc.

Our EnerHy PhD Studentship packages includes:

• All PhD tuition fees paid.
• A tax-free stipend at UKRI rates to cover living costs.
• A substantial Research Training Support Grant (RTSG) each year to support travel, training and consumables costs.
• Additional funding to support outreach and development