HDR Scholarship - Hybrid microgrid systems with green hydrogen

Project Supervisor

Saman A. Gorji

Additional Supervision

Prof. Ben Horan

School

School of Engineering

Faculty

Faculty of Science, Engineering and Built Environment

Location

Geelong Waurn Ponds Campus

Research topic

The reliance on diesel power generation in remote and off-grid areas presents significant environmental and economic challenges. This project aims to address these issues by exploring the integration of Green hydrogen-based assets into renewable hybrid microgrids, offering a sustainable alternative to diesel power. Utilising Deakin University's solar farm and battery facilities as a test environment, this research will assess the feasibility and benefits of deploying Green hydrogen systems to achieve 100% renewable energy in these regions.

In partnership with Canopy Power, a leader in sustainable energy solutions, this project will evaluate the technical, environmental, and economic impacts of transitioning from diesel to Green hydrogen and examine capacity-building opportunities in Victoria to support regional adoption of renewable microgrids.

This collaborative initiative is led by Dr. Saman Asghari Gorji and Prof. Ben Horan at Deakin University, with industry insights from Ms Mahasti Motazedi, Director of Strategy and Business Development at Canopy Power. The project aligns with the goals of Deakin's REACH program, further strengthening the university’s role in promoting resilient energy systems and sustainable growth in regional Australia.

Project aim

This project aims to develop and evaluate sustainable methods for integrating Green hydrogen-based assets into renewable hybrid microgrids for remote and off-grid regions. Through feasibility assessments and technological innovations, the research will investigate achieving 100% renewable energy independence, assess environmental and economic impacts, and contribute to capacity-building initiatives in Victoria, with a focus on replacing diesel power generation.

Important dates

Applications will remain open until a candidate has been appointed.

Benefits

This scholarship is available over 3 years.

Stipend of $45,550, per annum tax exempt (inclusive of a top-up of $10,000, as per the REACH agreement)
Relocation allowance of $500-1500 (for single to family) for students moving from interstate
Additional consumables fund: up to $5,000 per annum for three years

International students only:

Tuition fees offset for the duration of 4 years.
Single Overseas Student Health Cover policy for the duration of the student visa.

Eligibility criteria

To be eligible you must:

be a domestic or international candidate. Domestic includes candidates with Australian Citizenship, Australian Permanent Residency or New Zealand Citizenship.
meet Deakin's PhD entry requirements
be enrolling full time

Please refer to the research degree entry pathways page for further information.

How to apply

Please email a CV and cover letter (including your interest in the project) to Dr Saman A. Gorji. The CV should highlight your skills, education, publications and relevant work experience. If you are successful you will then be invited to submit a formal application.