Institution of Engineers Jamshedpur organizes seminar on “Recent Advancements in Electric Power Systems”

Fuel cells, biofuels, and synthetic fuels key to reducing carbon footprint: Dr. Rekha Choudary

Stable controllers ensure EV performance, says Dr. Sharat Chandra Mahato

Smart grids key to clean energy future: NIT Jamshedpur professor

Jamshedpur, February 8: The Institution of Engineers (India), Jamshedpur Local Centre, organized a one-day seminar on “Recent Advancements in Electric Power Systems” at the SNTI Auditorium on February 8. The event brought together industry professionals, academics, and students to discuss innovative energy solutions and advancements in electric power systems, with a focus on grid integration, clean energy, and electric vehicles.

Delivering the keynote address on “Innovations in Energy: Shaping a Cleaner, Greener India,” Dr. Rekha Choudary, former Principal of Maryland Institute of Technology, Galudih, emphasized the potential of hydrogen fuel as the cleanest energy source for the future. She elaborated on the critical need for transitioning from fossil fuels to alternative energy sources, particularly hydrogen, which, when consumed in a fuel cell, produces only water as a byproduct.

“Hydrogen is an attractive fuel option for transportation and electricity generation. It does not produce harmful emissions and has immense potential to reduce our dependence on fossil fuels while protecting the environment,” said Dr. Choudary.

She explained that hydrogen could be produced from various sources, including natural gas, nuclear power, biomass, and renewable energy such as solar and wind. However, she highlighted that the high cost of hydrogen production and electricity generation through electrolysis remains a significant challenge, which can be addressed with emerging technologies in the coming years. Dr. Choudary also mentioned other future fuels, such as fuel cells, biofuels, and synthetic fuels, which hold promise for reducing carbon footprints and advancing the country’s clean energy agenda.

Technical Sessions Focus on Power Systems, Microgrids, and Electric Vehicles

The seminar featured several technical sessions delivered by distinguished speakers from academia and industry, covering topics ranging from distributed generation and electric vehicles to smart grid innovations.

Dr. Omhari Gupta, Assistant Professor at NIT Jamshedpur, presented a session on “Distributed Generation and Power Quality,” focusing on the grid integration of renewable-based distributed generation. He explained how microgrid technology can enhance energy security and discussed the challenges and solutions associated with integrating renewable energy sources into the grid. His presentation provided insights into maintaining power quality while integrating diverse energy resources.

The third technical session was led by Dr. Sharat Chandra Mahato, Assistant Professor and Associate Dean (Academic Affairs) at RVS College of Engineering & Technology, Jamshedpur. His session emphasized electric vehicles (EVs) and their control systems. Dr. Mahato introduced the concept of stable fuzzy controllers in the form of linear matrix inequalities (LMIs) for EV speed stabilization, highlighting robust disturbance rejection approaches for ensuring stable performance even in the presence of external disturbances and parametric uncertainties.

Focus on Smart Grid and Green Energy

Dr. Jitendra Kumar, Assistant Professor at NIT Jamshedpur, spoke on “Green Energy and Clean Energy for New India,” where he underscored the importance of smart grid technologies in promoting sustainable energy solutions. He elaborated on how smart grid innovations could support India’s transition to a clean energy future by enhancing energy efficiency and reliability.

The final technical session was conducted by Er. Ajit Kumar Singh, PhD Research Scholar at the Department of Electrical Engineering, NIT Jamshedpur. He focused on “DC Microgrid Feeder Protection,” addressing critical issues such as energy storage, cybersecurity, financial challenges, and operational maintenance in microgrid systems. His session provided a comprehensive overview of the strategies required to ensure the safety and reliability of DC microgrids.

The seminar witnessed participation from over 75 attendees, including professionals from Tata Steel, Tata Steel Growth Shop, CSIR-NML, Tata Tinplate, Adhunik Power & Natural Resources Ltd., and students and faculty from leading academic institutions such as NIT Jamshedpur, Arka Jain University, Srinath University, Maryland Institute of Technology and Management, and Adityapur Polytechnic.

The inaugural session began with the traditional lamp lighting ceremony, followed by a welcome address by Er. Sourabh Goyal, Chief of Iron Making Electrical Maintenance at Tata Steel Ltd. He highlighted the importance of reliable and integrated grid networks while sensitizing participants to the challenges in maintaining these systems. The chief guest for the event, Er. Parvesh Kumar Dhawan, former Chief Scientist and Head of the Engineering Division at CSIR-NML, emphasized the need for better control, safety, and cybersecurity in power grid integration to ensure an uninterrupted and reliable power supply.

The seminar concluded with a valedictory session that included a feedback segment and the distribution of participation certificates. Er. S.D. Bhattacharjee, Immediate Past Honorary Secretary of IEI, Jamshedpur Local Centre, proposed the vote of thanks, appreciating the efforts of all speakers, participants, and organizers for making the seminar a grand success.