High Level Description

Energy companies across Sweden are responsible for the production, storage, and distribution of both electricity and heat to households and industries. 

To meet consumers' energy needs, there are several different production sources and storage options available. According to Svenska Kraftnät, 42.5% of the energy was produced from hydropower, 22% from wind power, 4.5% from thermal power, 30% from nuclear power, and 1% from solar power in 2023.

Challenges

An increased share of weather-dependent energy production also raises the need for energy storage to stabilize the electricity grid during variations in meteorological conditions. 

Thermal power plants remain an important component of Sweden's energy supply; these plants are fueled by various sources that contribute to emissions. With rising energy demand, it is crucial that these systems are developed, operated, and maintained optimally. A fundamental prerequisite for future success is a deep understanding of the systems, which requires continuous analysis to identify and implement development potential. This methodology enables proactive adaptation and optimization of energy systems as needs change and new technologies are introduced.

Project Description / Purpose

An effective tool for this analysis is simulation and optimization. Using the simulation platform Modelon Impact, a digital twin of the system is developed, where data is integrated to simulate and optimize various scenarios concerning weather conditions and energy consumption. The optimization results can provide valuable insights into potential development opportunities in the system from a technology and operational perspective to enhance profitability and efficiency.

The goal of this project is to investigate whether there is development potential at the component or operational level in the energy technology used to meet consumer needs. If development potential or improvement suggestions are identified, provide justification for why the investment should be made to implement the changes. 

The aim of this project is to model a digital twin of an existing facility that produces electricity or heat, as well as to discover development potential in the system from a profitability perspective.

Who are we looking for?

• 1-2 M.Sc. students specializing in Mechanical Engineering and energy technology or an equivalent field.
• A genuine interest in technology, energy systems, sustainability and a drive to influence the future energy sector in the right direction is highly valued.
• Demonstrated excellence in communication skills, coupled with a strong ability to collaborate effectively within a team.
• Full-time on-site commitments, with placement options at the Knightec office in Örnsköldsvik or Umeå.
  
• Fluent in Swedish and English.
• In your application, kindly articulate your specific areas of interest and share a few preliminary thoughts on how you envision incorporating these elements into your thesis work.

Application

You are welcome to apply as a single student or together with a fellow student. If you are to apply together with a co-writer, you need to apply and complete the test separately. Just make sure to inform us that you intend to write together and who your partner is. In your personal letter (if you are two students, you can submit the same) we welcome you to describe why the project attracts you and why you would be suited for the challenge. 

Please send in your application with a CV and cover letter. We will conduct interviews continuously and the application period is open until further notice.