Research Q&A with Tarek Masaud: Battery storage for advancing renewable energy

Tarek Masaud, PhD

1. How would you describe the main idea or main takeaway from your most recent research or creative work to someone outside your field?

My research introduces a novel two-stage approach for optimizing Battery Storage System (BSS) planning within microgrids, aiming to increase the integration of battery storage in the power grid, which is an essential element for advancing renewable energy penetration. By strategically addressing capacity, degradation, and operational parameters, the proposed methodology contributes to the resilience and sustainability of power systems, marking a significant step towards a cleaner and more adaptable energy future.

2. What is the key paper or author/performer who has most inspired your recent research/creative work?

The results from our previous paper (cited below) served as the primary motivation for this article. In that paper, we developed a comprehensive model that optimized the size of individual battery storage systems for microgrid applications, taking into account battery degradation. Additionally, we investigated various types of batteries. This work shed light on incorporating battery state of health and battery swapping into the development of future battery planning models, which was the focus of the present study.

T. M. Masaud and E. F. El-Saadany, “Correlating Optimal Size, Cycle Life Estimation, and Technology Selection of Batteries: A Two-Stage Approach for Microgrid Applications,” IEEE Transactions on Sustainable Energy, vol. 11, no. 3, pp. 1257-1267, July 2020.

3. How do you see this research/creative piece contributing to new insights in the field/sparking conversation?

The proposed methodology contributes to the resilience and sustainability of power systems, marking a significant step towards a cleaner and more adaptable green energy future. Overall, this research/creative piece serves as a catalyst for generating new ideas, fostering interdisciplinary collaborations, and driving innovation in the field of sustainable energy systems. This research on battery storage integration into microgrids contributes to new insights and sparks conversation by addressing practical challenges, such as battery degradation and state of health considerations, while optimizing microgrid planning and operation. Ultimately, this work educates stakeholders, drives innovation, and accelerates the adoption of sustainable energy solutions, making a significant contribution to advancing the field of renewable energy integration and grid resilience.

4. Can you describe the contributions of co-authors or collaborators who were essential to the success of this project?    

Dr. Ehab Elsaadany, who is with Khalifa University at UAE, was the only co-author involved in this project. His contribution includes discussing obtained results, and reviewing manuscript drafts.

5. What impact do you hope this work makes?

We anticipate that this research will make a valuable contribution to the scientific community by providing insights and methodologies to enhance the optimal planning and operation of battery storage within the power grid.

6. What is on deck for you as you get started on your next project?

As I embark on my next project, my primary focus will be on further advancing the research on renewable energy integration and grid resilience. I plan to delve deeper into exploring innovative strategies for optimizing hybrid energy storage systems within microgrids, with a particular emphasis on fuel cell-battery hybrid systems. Additionally, I aim to expand my collaboration network, engage with industry partners, and leverage cutting-edge technologies to enhance the impact and scalability of my research endeavors. Through these efforts, I aspire to contribute meaningfully to the ongoing transition towards a sustainable and resilient energy future.

Read more about Masaud’s work here.