Daniel Mutia Mwendwa | Energy Systems | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Daniel Mutia Mwendwa | Energy Systems | Best Researcher Award

Daniel Mutia Mwendwa at University of Oxford, United Kingdom

Summary:

Daniel Mutia Mwendwa is a Rhodes Scholar currently pursuing a DPhil in Engineering Science at the University of Oxford, where his research focuses on geospatial analysis of solar-powered irrigation systems in Sub-Saharan Africa. He holds an MSc in Energy Systems (Distinction) from Oxford and a BEng (First Class Honours) in Electronics and Electrical Engineering from the University of Edinburgh. Co-founder of BuniTek, he is dedicated to introducing technology to African youth. Daniel also works as a Research Assistant in the Climate Compatible Growth Programme, contributing to energy planning in Kenya and global green hydrogen initiatives.

Professional Profile:

šŸ‘©ā€šŸŽ“Education:

University of Oxford, UK (2023 ā€“ Present)
DPhil in Engineering Science (Rhodes Scholar)

  • Thesis Topic: Geospatial analysis of solar-powered irrigation in Sub-Saharan Africa, focusing on the water, energy, and food nexus.

University of Oxford, UK (2021 ā€“ 2022)
MSc in Energy Systems (Distinction, Rhodes Scholar)

  • Thesis: Developed a geospatial methodology for sizing and costing solar-powered irrigation systems for different crops.

University of Edinburgh, UK (2017 ā€“ 2021)
BEng (Hons) in Electronics and Electrical Engineering (First Class Honours, MasterCard Foundation Scholar)

  • Thesis: Developed an optimized hybrid energy storage system (HESS) combining battery storage, hydrogen fuel cells, and supercapacitors using MATLAB Simulink.

šŸ¢ Professional Experience:

Rhodes Trust, Oxford, UK (Mar 2024 ā€“ Present)
Rhodes Scholarship Ambassador for East Africa

  • Engages with universities across East Africa to introduce students to the Rhodes Scholarship and supports their application process.

University of Oxford, Oxford, UK (Mar 2022 ā€“ Present)
Research Assistant, Climate Compatible Growth Programme

  • Developed least-cost electrification pathways for Kenyan counties using the Open-Source Spatial Electrification Tool (OnSSET). Conducted capacity-building workshops on energy planning models like OSeMOSYS and IRENAā€™s Flextool. Also involved in geospatial modeling of green hydrogen production potential globally.

Loughborough University, Nairobi, Kenya (Nov 2022 ā€“ Present)
Research Consultant

  • Designed off-grid electrification solutions for poultry farming and health facilities. Authored academic papers on energy planning and developed funding proposals.

BuniTek, Nairobi, Kenya (Jun 2020 ā€“ Present)
Co-Founder

  • Co-founded BuniTek, an initiative that introduces technology concepts to African high school students in an engaging and hands-on manner. Led a team of 15 volunteers to develop 14 new courses.

Research Interests:

Daniel Mutia Mwendwa’s research interests lie in renewable energy systems, particularly in optimizing solar-powered irrigation and hybrid energy storage solutions. He is passionate about integrating geospatial modeling and energy planning to address sustainability challenges in Sub-Saharan Africa. His work also focuses on green hydrogen production, off-grid electrification, and the energy-water-food nexus.

Author Metrics:

Mwendwa has co-authored several research papers and reports, including:

  1. “Spatial Data Starter Kit for OnSSET Energy Planning in Kitui County, Kenya” – Published in Data in Brief (2022).
  2. “Mapping the Energy Planning Ecosystem in Kenya” – Published on GOV.UK (2023).
  3. “County Energy Planning Data Flows in Kenya: Practitioner Perspectives” – Published on GOV.UK (2023).

Top Noted Publication:

GIS-Based Method for Assessing the Viability of Solar-Powered Irrigation

  • Journal: Applied Energy
  • Publication Date: January 2025
  • DOI: 10.1016/j.apenergy.2024.124461
  • Contributors: Daniel Mutia Mwendwa, Alycia Leonard, Stephanie Hirmer
  • Summary: This paper presents a Geographic Information System (GIS)-based methodology for evaluating the feasibility of solar-powered irrigation systems. The method integrates spatial data with factors such as water availability, crop water demand, and solar energy potential to determine where solar-powered irrigation systems can be most effectively deployed in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Spatial Data Starter Kit for OnSSET Energy Planning in Kitui County, Kenya

  • Journal: Data in Brief
  • Publication Date: December 2022
  • DOI: 10.1016/j.dib.2022.108691
  • Contributors: Daniel Mutia Mwendwa, Jeffrey Tchouambe, Emily Hu, Micaela Flores Lanza, Andrea Babic Brener, Gyubin Hwang, Layla Khanfar, Alycia Leonard, Stephanie Hirmer, Malcolm McCulloch
  • Summary: This article provides a comprehensive spatial data kit designed for energy planning in Kitui County, Kenya. It is part of the Open-Source Spatial Electrification Tool (OnSSET) framework, which assists planners in developing least-cost electrification pathways. The dataset includes geographic and energy-related data to facilitate more efficient and accurate energy planning.

Xiaoxiao Huo | Electric Engineering | Best Researcher Award

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Ms. Xiaoxiao Huo | Electric Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Xiaoxiao Huo at Xiamen University, China

Summary:

Ms. Xiaoxiao Huo is a promising researcher in the field of electrical engineering, currently pursuing her master’s degree at Xiamen University, China. With a strong foundation in power electronics and control theory, she has engaged in various research projects focused on optimizing energy systems and improving power conversion techniques. Ms. Huo is an award-winning student, recognized for her academic excellence and contributions to both research and engineering competitions. She has published several papers on advanced control strategies and holds patents in image recognition technologies for meter reading. Her diverse academic and practical experiences position her as a future leader in energy system optimization and power management.

Professional Profile:

šŸ‘©ā€šŸŽ“Education:

Ms. Xiaoxiao Huo is currently pursuing her M.Eng. in Electrical Engineering at Xiamen University (2022-2025, expected), where she maintains a GPA of 3.6/4.0. She is under the supervision of Dr. Po Li (Xiamen University) and Dr. Zhengmao Li (Aalto University). Her primary coursework includes modern control theory, advanced power electronics, and numerical analysis. She completed her B.Eng. in Electrical Engineering and Automation from South China Agricultural University (SCAU) in 2022 with an average score of 90.91/100. Her undergraduate studies focused on power electronics technology, power system analysis, and electrical machinery theory.

šŸ¢ Professional Experience:

Throughout her academic journey, Ms. Huo has engaged in various research and professional roles. Currently, she is conducting research on multi-energy system planning and operation at Aalto University, where she is developing a planning and operation model for integrated energy systems. In addition, at Xiamen University, she is working on power conversion and energy management strategies for power systems, focusing on model predictive control and its applications. In 2022, Ms. Huo gained hands-on experience as an intern and research assistant at the Guangzhou Institute of Energy Testing, where she designed instrument verification methods using computer vision. She has also been an active volunteer with the Chinese Association of Automation (CAA) since 2021, contributing to academic promotion and conference organization. Her participation in robotics competitions, including the Robomaster visual team, further demonstrates her interest in AI and automation.

Research Interests:

Ms. Huoā€™s research interests lie in the areas of power electronics, control engineering, energy management, and hybrid energy storage systems. Her work focuses on model predictive control, model-free control, observer design, and hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) simulations. She has also contributed to projects involving grid-tied inverters, multi-energy systems, and the optimization of electric power conversion.

Author Metrics:

Ms. Huo has contributed to several significant publications in the fields of energy systems and power electronics. Some of her key works include:

  • Huo, X., & Li, P. (2024). Power Management and Control Strategy Based on Model-Free Control for Hybrid Energy Storage System. Accepted by 2024 9th International Conference on Power and Renewable Energy (ICPRE 2024).
  • Huo, X., & Li, P. Parameter-Free Ultralocal Model-Based Predictive Current Control for Three-Phase Four-Leg Inverters. Submitted to Electric Power Systems Research.
  • Zhang, Y., Huo, X., et al. (2023). Design of an Image Recognition Device for Electronic Water Meter Readings Based on Improved Threading Method. IEEE Chinese Automation Congress (CAC 2023).
  • She is also the co-author of two Chinese patents on image recognition methods for gas and water meter readings.

Top Noted Publication:

Simplified Finite Control Set Model Predictive Control for Single-Phase Grid-Tied Inverters with Twisted Parameters

  • Journal: Electric Power Systems Research
  • Publication Date: January 2025
  • DOI: 10.1016/j.epsr.2024.111063
  • Contributors: Po Li, Xiaoxiao Huo
  • Details: The paper discusses an advanced control method for single-phase grid-tied inverters with twisted parameters, focusing on reducing total harmonic distortion (THD).

Design of an Image Recognition Device for Electronic Water Meter Readings Based on Improved Threading Method

  • Conference: 2023 China Automation Congress (CAC)
  • Publication Date: November 17, 2023
  • DOI: 10.1109/cac59555.2023.10451216
  • Contributors: Yuanming Zhang, Qilun Lu, Xiaoxiao Huo, Yong Wan, Peng Tian
  • Details: This paper focuses on the design of a device utilizing image recognition technology for reading electronic water meters, improving accuracy through an enhanced threading method.

Total Harmonic Distortion Reduction Method of Improved Finite Control Set Model Predictive Control for Single-Phase Inverter with Twisted Parameter

  • Conference: 2023 5th International Conference on Power and Energy Technology (ICPET)
  • Publication Date: July 27, 2023
  • DOI: 10.1109/icpet59380.2023.10367520
  • Contributors: Po Li, Xiaoxiao Huo, Feng Guo
  • Details: This paper presents an improved control method for reducing THD in single-phase inverters with twisted parameters.

Multi-Sampling Rate Finite Control Set Model Predictive Control and Adaptive Method of Single-Phase Inverter

  • Journal: Electronics
  • Publication Date: June 27, 2023
  • DOI: 10.3390/electronics12132848
  • Contributors: Yunfeng She, Xiaoxiao Huo, Xiaoshan Tong, Chunjie Wang, Kunkun Fu
  • Details: The paper discusses multi-sampling rate model predictive control methods for single-phase inverters, including adaptive control to enhance performance.

Research on Quality Control Application of Whole Process Intelligent Manufacturing in Steel Industry 4.0 Based on Big Data Analysis

  • Journal: Journal of Network Intelligence
  • Publication Year: 2022
  • EID: 2-s2.0-85136270844
  • ISSN: 2414-8105
  • Contributors: Zhao, F., Yin, C., Huo, X., Xu, Y.
  • Details: This paper examines the application of big data analysis for quality control in Industry 4.0, focusing on intelligent manufacturing in the steel industry.

Debela Alema | Thermal System Engineering | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Debela Alema, Thermal System Engineering, Best Researcher Award

Debela Alema at Jimma university, Ethiopia

Summary:

Mr. Debela Alema is a dedicated lecturer and researcher with extensive experience in mechanical and thermal systems engineering. Holding a BSc from Wollega University and an MSc from Jimma University, he has taught various engineering courses, guided student projects, and contributed to academic research in notable journals. Mr. Alema is committed to advancing knowledge in power plant engineering and renewable energy systems, and he actively participates in initiatives aimed at optimizing energy systems and promoting clean energy solutions.

Professional Profile:

šŸ‘©ā€šŸŽ“Education:

BSc in Mechanical Engineering: Wollega University, Ethiopia (GPA: 3.90/4)

MSc in Thermal System Engineering: Jimma University, Ethiopia (GPA: 3.98/4)

šŸ¢ Professional Experience:

Mr. Debela Alema has a robust professional background in academia, having held positions at both Wollega University and Jimma University. At Wollega University, he served as an Assistant Researcher, Assistant Lecturer, and Lecturer, where he taught various engineering courses including power plant engineering, engineering drawing, engineering mechanics (dynamics), and thermodynamics. He also played a crucial role in advising undergraduate students on mini-project methodology and evaluating their performance. At Jimma University, Mr. Alema continued his academic career as a Lecturer, preparing teaching materials on heat transfer and supervising community-based program mini-projects for undergraduate students. He also conducted and published research work in reputable journals while teaching power plant engineering. In addition to his academic roles, Mr. Alema has volunteered with the Youth Education Support Service Ethiopia as a team member of YESSETHIOPIA Jimma Team, demonstrating his commitment to community service and education.

Certificates

Certificate of Achievement: Optimization Methods for Energy System Studies, Technical University of Denmark (April 2-22, 2024)

Certificate of Recognition: Design and Fabrication of Floor Cleaning, Washing, and Drying Machine, Wollega University Business and Technology Incubation Center (February 1 – June 30, 2018)

Certificate of Attendance: Africa International Conference on Clean Energy and Energy Storage (November 23-24, 2023)

Master Class for Teaching Online (Open EdX): Effective pedagogy in the online teaching and learning space (2-week course)

Project Certificate on FEM-Linear, Non-Linear Analysis and Post-Processing: Coursera

Certificate of Excellence in Peer-Reviewing: Recognition of outstanding contribution to the quality of a book

Research Interests:

Thermal systems engineering

Heat transfer

Power plant engineering

Renewable energy systems

Energy optimization and efficiency

Top Noted Publication:

Title: Parametric study of an empty diffuser geometric parameters and shape for a wind turbine using CFD analysis

  • Authors: DA Teklemariyem, ET Yimer, VR Ancha, BA Zeru
  • Journal: Heliyon
  • Volume: 10
  • Issue: 5
  • Year: 2024

Title: Effects of multi-spring wires on hydrothermal performance of double tube heat exchanger

  • Authors: DAT Maisa A. Sharaf, S.A. Marzouk, Ahmad Aljabr, Fahad Awjah Almehmadi, DA Teklemariyem
  • Journal: Case Studies in Thermal Engineering
  • Volume: 60
  • Year: 2024

Title: Modeling and simulation of Khat waste fast pyrolysis for energy recovery

  • Authors: GA Moreda, SD Tolasa, DA Teklemariyem
  • Journal: Heliyon
  • Volume: 10
  • Issue: 2
  • Year: 2024

 

 

Lahcen Nkhaili | Materials Science | Editorial Board Member

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Prof. Lahcen Nkhaili, Materials Science, Editorial Board Member

Professor at Faculty des Sciences Semlalia, Cadi Ayyad University, Marrakech Morocco, Morocco

Summary:

Prof. Lahcen Nkhaili is a distinguished academic and researcher specializing in Energy Conversion Engineering. He holds a Ph.D. with a specialty in Photovoltaic-Nanomaterial Conversion from the Faculty of Sciences Semlalia, Cadi Ayyad University, awarded in 2016. His expertise extends to Nanotechnology, demonstrated through a Master’s degree obtained in 2010 from the Laboratory of Solid and Thin Film Physics at FSSM. With a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering Science received in 1999 with high distinction, Prof. Nkhaili has showcased a commitment to academic excellence.

Professional Profile:

Orcid Profile

Google Scholar Profile

šŸ‘©ā€šŸŽ“Education & Qualification:

Ph.D. in Photovoltaic-Nanomaterial Conversion (2016)

  • Specialty: Nanomaterials for Energy and the Environment
  • Institution: Faculty of Sciences Semlalia, Cadi Ayyad University

Master’s Degree in Nanotechnology (2010)

  • Specialty: Solid and Thin Film Physics
  • Laboratory: FSSM (Laboratoire de Physique des Solides et des Couches Minces)

Bachelor’s Degree (1999)

Professional Experience:

Prof. Lahcen Nkhaili has amassed a wealth of professional experiences, demonstrating his commitment to academia and research. Since 2018, he has held the position of Professor at the Faculty of Sciences Semlalia, Cadi Ayyad University, where he specializes in Energy Conversion Engineering. In this role, he imparts knowledge and expertise in the dynamic field of energy conversion, contributing to the education and development of students.

Prior to his current position, Prof. Nkhaili served as a Professor from 2001 to 2018, specializing in Engineering Science. During this extensive period, he played a pivotal role in the education system, contributing to the academic growth of students at the Secondary and Intermediate School level. His dedication to engineering science education has left a lasting impact on the students he mentored during these years.

These professional experiences reflect Prof. Nkhaili’s enduring commitment to education, where he has not only shared his expertise in Engineering Science but has also been instrumental in shaping the academic landscape in the field of Energy Conversion Engineering at Cadi Ayyad University.

Research Interests:

Prof. Lahcen Nkhaili are not explicitly outlined in the provided information, based on his academic background and professional experiences, we can infer that his research interests likely revolve around the following areas:

Energy Conversion Engineering: With a specialty in energy conversion engineering, Prof. Nkhaili is likely engaged in research related to the efficient conversion of different forms of energy, possibly exploring renewable energy sources and advanced technologies.

Photovoltaic-Nanomaterial Conversion: Given his Ph.D. specialty in photovoltaic-nanomaterial conversion, his research may involve the application of nanomaterials for enhanced performance in photovoltaic devices, contributing to advancements in solar energy conversion.

Nanotechnology: Prof. Nkhaili’s Master’s degree in nanotechnology suggests an interest in the study and application of nanomaterials, which can have diverse applications in various scientific and engineering fields.

Materials Science: As nanomaterials play a crucial role in his academic background, Prof. Nkhaili may be involved in materials science research, exploring the properties and applications of different materials, especially those at the nanoscale.

Thin Film Physics: His Master’s degree specialty in solid and thin film physics implies an interest in the physics of thin films, which has applications in various technological fields, including electronics, optics, and energy.

Electrical and Dielectric Measurements: His administrative role as the Head of the Electrical and Dielectric Measurements Laboratory indicates an interest in research related to electrical and dielectric properties of materials, crucial for understanding their behavior in various applications.

Publication Top Noted:

Title: “A simple method to control the growth of copper oxide nanowires for solar cells and catalytic applications“

  • Authors: L. Nkhaili, A. Narjis, A. Agdad, A. Tchenka, A. El Kissani, A. Outzourhit, etc.
  • Journal: Advances in Condensed Matter Physics 2020
  • Citations: 17

Title: “Development of Cu2NiSnS4 based thin film solar cells without a sulfurization step“

  • Authors: M. Elyaagoubi, F. Welatta, L. Nkhaili, H. Chaib, A. Outzourhit
  • Journal: Materials Science in Semiconductor Processing 2020
  • Citations: 15

Title: “Effect of annealing on structural, optical and electrical properties of nickel oxide thin films synthesized by the reactive radio frequency sputtering“

  • Authors: S. Elmassi, A. Narjis, L. Nkhaili, A. Elkissani, L. Amiri, S. Drissi, A. Abali, etc.
  • Journal: Physica B: Condensed Matter 2022
  • Citations: 12

Title: “Effect of vacuum annealing and position of metal Cu on structural, optical, electrical and thermoelectrical properties of ITO/Cu/ITO multilayers prepared by RF sputtering“

  • Authors: A. Tchenka, A. Agdad, M. Bousseta, A. El Mouncharih, L. Amiri, L. Nkhaili, etc.
  • Journal: Optical Materials 2022
  • Citations: 11

Title: “Spectroscopic study and thermoelectric properties of copper sulfide thin films prepared by the flash evaporation method“

  • Authors: L. Amiri, A. Narjis, L. Nkhaili, M. Bousseta, S. Elmassi, A. Tchenka, S. Drissi, etc.
  • Journal: Journal of Alloys and Compounds 2022
  • Citations: 10