Most forms of renewable energies are intermittent in nature. This contrasts with operation of most chemical processes, which are designed to run in a continuous manner. Industrially, chemical processes are designed as a series of unit operations. Currently, they are designed to work without any constraint on the accessibility of the required energy. This project will undertake an analysis of all potential energy sources with regards to selected geographical region and a sample industry operating in the region. The projected processes energy use as calculated using advanced software tools will be mapped against the availability. This analysis will reveal industry’s readiness to adopt renewable energy and the investment that they need to make.
Aim
To evaluate the alignment between renewable energy availability and industrial process energy demand in a selected region, in order to assess the feasibility of renewable energy integration in chemical processing industries.
Objectives
- Analyse the availability and characteristics of potential energy sources in a selected geographical region and compare them with the energy requirements of a representative industrial process.
- Map projected process energy demand, using advanced modelling tools, against energy availability to assess industry readiness for renewable energy adoption and associated investment needs.
Significance
This project addresses a critical challenge in the energy transition by examining how intermittent renewable energy sources can be matched with the continuous energy demands of industrial chemical processes. The findings will provide valuable insights into the technical and investment requirements for adopting renewable energy in industry, thereby supporting more informed planning and decision-making for sustainable industrial transformation.
Ideal Candidate
We are looking for a self-motivated PhD candidate with excellent organisation, problem-solving and project management skills. Candidates with strong quantitative skills, including a strong mathematical modelling and engineering background is required for this project. Additionally, the applicants should meet the eligibility criteria for entry into a PhD program at Curtin University.
This project is open to International and Domestic applicants.
Internship
Through this project you will also have an internship opportunity. More information will be provided at a later date.
Scholarship
If you are identified as the preferred candidate for this project, you may be considered for an RTP scholarship.
Enquires and How to Apply
For enquires about this opportunity contact Professor Vishnu Pareek at V.Pareek@curtin.edu.au
To formally apply submit an Expression of Interest to Professor Vishnu Pareek during the Central Scholarship round (July 1st – July 31st 2026)