Securing a sustainable energy future implies an energy transition that will require a new generation of dedicated engineers and researchers capable of developing, optimising, and integrating sustainable energy sources including solar power, wind power, and energy from biomass. Because of the intermittency of these sources storage of energy is an important factor for success. This requires innovative batteries and research into hydrogen as an energy source. New technologies need to be integrated into existing power networks and market structures. The design of new forms of energy distribution, energy market structures, and smart grids is necessary to satisfy the energy needs of modern societies.
System integrators of the energy transition.
Engineers in Sustainable Energy Technology have a broad knowledge of the field and can act as the system integrators of the energy transition. They can bring different energy subsystems together into one system. Their engineering skills include renewable energy generation, distribution systems, and storage. In addition they can integrate systems that can manage the fluctuating energy supply and demand. They are also aware of the challenges of the energy market and innovation management. There is a lot of demand for engineers in this field, because governments and industry have ambitious plans for investments in sustainable energy.