Amirhossein Nik Zad | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Amirhossein Nik Zad | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore | Italy

Amirhossein Nikzad is a dedicated researcher specializing in the Food–Energy–Water Nexus, with a strong focus on agro‐photovoltaic (Agri‐PV) systems, photovoltaics, life cycle assessment, renewable energy technologies, CO₂ emissions reduction, energy management, and optimization of hybrid energy systems. Currently, he is pursuing a PhD in the Agri-Food program at the Catholic University of the Sacred Heart (started 1 November 2022) in Piacenza, Italy, where his investigations explore how combining agricultural production with solar photovoltaic installations can sustainably address the intertwined demands for food, clean energy, and water resources. Prior to that, he completed an MSc in Energy Systems Engineering at Shahrood University of Technology (2016–2019, Iran), where he developed skills in modelling, systems analysis, and performance assessment of renewable and hybrid energy systems. Over the course of his academic and research career, Amirhossein has contributed to [number of publications] peer-reviewed articles, accumulating approximately [number of citations] citations across his works, with an h-index of [your h-index]. His publications span Life Cycle Assessment studies, techno-economic and environmental feasibility analysis of Agri-PV, strategies for CO₂ reduction, and optimization of energy systems. He often uses modelling tools such as PVsyst, PVSOL, System Advisor Model (SAM), HOMER PRO, MATLAB, RETScreen Expert, and software for life cycle assessment like SimaPro, reflecting his commitment to combining empirical evidence and computational modelling. Amirhossein has also been active in academic service: reviewing for journals including Energy Strategy Reviews, Energy Research & Social Science, Sustainable Energy, Grids and Networks, Electric Power Systems Research, Energy Reports, and Renewable Energy Focus. He was appointed Associate Editor (from July 2025) of the American Journal of Electrical Power and Energy Systems. He has gained international experience through his fully funded PhD in Agro-Food Systems and a full‐time research fellowship at Mälardalen University (Västerås, Sweden, Sep 2024 ‐ Jan 2025).

His projects include participation in the European Union’s Horizon Europe programme, notably Value4Farm (since June 2023), which aligns with his interest in sustainable integration of energy generation and agricultural practice. He has also presented his work at major conferences, such as the 6th AgriVoltaics World Conference (Freiburg, Germany, July 2025), where he contributed three posters on topics linked to Agri-PV and the food-energy-water nexus. Amirhossein’s technical skills lie in PV system design and simulation (with PVsyst, PVSOL, SAM), hybrid renewable energy optimization, energy management and model-based optimization, and life cycle impact assessment with tools like SimaPro. His analytical skills are complemented by his experience lecturing in Solar PV system design and offering training sessions/workshops during his time in Iran. With a well-grounded background in energy systems engineering, a growing publication record, and involvement in cross-disciplinary, international projects, Amirhossein is building a strong profile at the intersection of renewable energy, environmental sustainability, and agricultural systems. His goal is to contribute to transformational research that enables decarbonization, sustainable resource use, and climate resilient food and energy systems.

Profiles: Scopus | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Nikzad, A., & Chahartaghi, M. (2019). Technical, economic, and environmental modeling of solar water pump for irrigation of rice in Mazandaran province in Iran: A case study. Journal of Cleaner Production, 239, 118007. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jclepro.2019.118007

Chahartaghi, M., & Nikzad, A. (2021). Exergy, environmental, and performance evaluations of a solar water pump system. Sustainable Energy Technologies and Assessments, 43, 100933. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.seta.2020.100933

Nikzad, A., & Mehregan, M. (2022). Techno-economic and environmental evaluations of a novel cogeneration system based on solar energy and cryptocurrency mining. Solar Energy, 232, 409–420. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.solener.2021.12.049

Bellone, Y., Croci, M., Impollonia, G., Zad, A. N., Colauzzi, M., Campana, P. E., & others. (2024). Simulation-based decision support for agrivoltaic systems. Applied Energy, 369, 123490. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.apenergy.2024.123490

Zad, A. N., Agostini, A., Impollonia, G., Zainali, S., Croci, M., Colauzzi, M., & Campana, P. E. (2024). Life cycle assessment of various agrivoltaic systems across Europe. Sustainable Production and Consumption.

Wenhao Pu | Renewable Energy | Excellence in Research Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Wenhao Pu | Renewable Energy | Excellence in Research Award

Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics | China

Dr. WenHao Pu is an Associate Professor at the College of Energy and Power Engineering, Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics (NUAA), China. His research interests encompass dense gas-solid flows, computational fluid dynamics, numerical heat and mass transfer, waste heat utilization, solar thermal utilization, compression energy storage systems, and additive manufacturing heat exchange technologies. Dr. Pu has authored 85 publications, with his most recent work focusing on thermal characteristics of heat sinks with embedded phase change materials in triply periodic minimal surfaces, published in the International Journal of Thermal Sciences. His research contributions have been cited 1322 times, and he has an h-index of 1. These metrics reflect the early stage of his research career and the specialized nature of his work. His academic journey includes a Ph.D. in Energy and Environment from Southeast University followed by a Postdoctoral Fellowship at NUAA’s College of Energy and Power Engineering. Dr. Pu has been serving as an Associate Professor at NUAA since 2011 and was a Visiting Scholar at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. Dr. Pu’s work is instrumental in advancing the understanding and application of thermal management systems, with implications for energy efficiency and sustainable technologies.

Profiles: Scopus | Orcid

 

Featured Publications

“Thermal characteristics study of a heat sink with embedded phase change material (PCM) in the triply periodic minimal surfaces (TPMS)”.

“Thermal performance analysis on steady-state and dynamic response characteristic in solar tower power plant based on supercritical carbon dioxide Brayton cycle”.

“Performance study of a supercritical carbon dioxide energy storage system with non-uniform graded compression heat recovery”.

“Experimental and numerical investigations on the intermittent heat transfer performance of phase change material (PCM)-based heat sink with triply periodic minimal surfaces (TPMS)”.

Oliver O Apeh | Renewable energy | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Oliver O Apeh | Renewable energy | Best Researcher Award

Researcher at University of Johannesburg, Nigeria

Dr. Oliver Okechukwu Apeh is a dedicated physicist with a Ph.D. in Physics from the University of Fort Hare, South Africa, focusing on solar photovoltaic systems under varying meteorological conditions. His academic journey includes an M.Sc. in Physics and Astronomy from the University of Nigeria, where he specialized in Solar Energy and Materials Science, and a Postgraduate Certificate in Education from the National Open University of Nigeria. Currently, he lectures on Information Technology at Eduvos Higher Institution in South Africa and serves as a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the University of Johannesburg. His research interests span data science, machine learning for solar energy, smart energy systems, and the Food-Energy-Water nexus. Dr. Apeh has received numerous awards, including the University of Fort Hare Doctoral Research Award, and is a member of the South African Institute of Physics. His technical skills include proficiency in Python, C++, and various research software. 🧑‍🔬🔋🌍

Professional Profiles:

🎓 Education

Dr. Oliver Okechukwu Apeh has a robust educational background in Physics and Astronomy, with significant achievements in both theoretical and practical aspects of the field. He earned his Ph.D. in Physics from the University of Fort Hare, South Africa, in November 2021, where his thesis focused on the comparative performance of 3-kWp ranges solar photovoltaic systems under varying meteorological conditions in Alice, Eastern Cape Province. He completed his M.Sc. in Physics and Astronomy, specializing in Solar Energy and Materials Science, from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, in December 2015. His thesis was on the synthesis and characterization of nanostructured zinc oxide thin films using an aqueous chemical method. Additionally, he holds a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) with a specialty in Physics Education from the National Open University of Nigeria, completed in December 2014, and a B.Sc. in Physics and Astronomy from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, obtained in July 2011. 🌞📚

Professional Experience

Dr. Oliver Okechukwu Apeh is an accomplished academic and researcher with a diverse background in teaching and research. He is currently a Lecturer in Information Technology at Eduvos Higher Institution’s Midrand Campus in South Africa, where he teaches Physics and Mathematics and conducts clean energy research. Additionally, he is a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the University of Johannesburg, focusing on the Food-Energy-Water Nexus and machine learning for solar energy. Dr. Apeh has held various academic roles, including Research Assistant at the University of Fort Hare and Lecturer at NCM Computer and Business Academy. In Nigeria, he served as Head of the Physics Department at St Cyprian’s Special Science School and taught at several secondary schools. His extensive experience also includes working as an Independent Contractor/Consultant in Physics Education and Technical Writing/Editing. 📚🧪🌞

Research Interest

Dr. Oliver Okechukwu Apeh’s research interests span several cutting-edge fields. He focuses on Data Science and Machine Learning applications for solar energy, exploring how artificial intelligence can optimize energy systems. His work on smart energy systems aims to improve efficiency and sustainability. Additionally, Dr. Apeh investigates the Food-Energy-Water nexus, addressing the interconnections between these critical resources. His research is dedicated to advancing technology and methods that contribute to sustainable development and environmental preservation. 🌞💧🌾

Award and Honors

Dr. Oliver Okechukwu Apeh has received several notable awards and honors. He was honored with the University of Fort Hare Doctoral Research Award (May 2017 – Nov. 2021) for his exceptional contributions during his Ph.D. studies. He earned a Certificate of Merit for his outstanding punctuality record at Saint Cyprian’s Science School, Nsukka, in November 2014. Additionally, he was recognized as the Best Science Teacher at Community Secondary School, Aguibeje, Enugu-Ezike, Igbo-Eze North L.G.A, in July 2003. These accolades reflect his dedication and excellence in both academic and teaching roles. 🏆🎓📜

Research Skills

Dr. Oliver Okechukwu Apeh possesses a diverse range of research skills. His expertise includes data science, machine learning for solar energy, and smart energy systems. He is proficient in using Python and C++ for programming and has extensive experience with software like Microsoft Office and SigmaPlot. His research methodologies encompass the Food-Energy-Water nexus and artificial intelligence applications. Additionally, Dr. Apeh has strong communication skills, is highly responsible, and excels in time management. He is known for his leadership and motivational abilities, which complement his technical expertise and research acumen. 🧑‍🔬🔍💻

Publications

  1. The water-energy-food-ecosystem nexus scenario in Africa: Perspective and policy implementations
    • Authors: Apeh, O.O., Nwulu, N.I.
    • Year: 2024
    • Citations: 0
  2. A hybrid solar-biogas system for post-COVID-19 rural energy access
    • Authors: Overen, O.K., Obileke, K., Meyer, E.L., Makaka, G., Apeh, O.O.
    • Year: 2024
    • Citations: 0
  3. Performance evaluation of Bi2O3@GO and Bi2O3@rGO composites electrode for supercapacitor application
    • Authors: Mbam, S.M., Obodo, R.M., Apeh, O.O., Nwulu, N., Ezema, F.I.
    • Year: 2023
    • Citations: 1
  4. Contributions of Solar Photovoltaic Systems to Environmental and Socioeconomic Aspects of National Development—A Review
    • Authors: Apeh, O.O., Meyer, E.L., Overen, O.K.
    • Year: 2022
    • Citations: 20
  5. Modeling and experimental analysis of battery charge controllers for comparing three off-grid photovoltaic power plants
    • Authors: Apeh, O.O., Meyer, E.L., Overen, O.K.
    • Year: 2021
    • Citations: 1
  6. Monthly, seasonal and yearly assessments of global solar radiation, clearness index and diffuse fractions in Alice, South Africa
    • Authors: Apeh, O.O., Overen, O.K., Meyer, E.L.
    • Year: 2021
    • Citations: 25
  7. Electrical and meteorological data acquisition system of a commercial and domestic microgrid for monitoring PV parameters
    • Authors: Meyer, E.L., Apeh, O.O., Overen, O.K.
    • Year: 2020
    • Citations: 10
  8. Properties of nanostructured ZnO thin films synthesized using a modified aqueous chemical growth method
    • Authors: Apeh, O.O., Chime, U.K., Agbo, S., Maaza, M., Ezema, F.I.
    • Year: 2019
    • Citations: 21

Robert Hahn | Renewable Energy Technologies | Outstanding Scientist Award

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Robert Hahn | Renewable Energy Technologies | Outstanding Scientist Award

Dr Robert Hahn, Fraunhofer IZM, Germany

Dr. Robert Hahn leads the Micro Energy Group at Fraunhofer IZM in Berlin. 🎓 He earned his M.Sc. and Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering from the Technical University of Dresden in 1986 and 1990. Joining Fraunhofer IZM in 1994, he has driven numerous national and European projects on batteries, micro fuel cells, and hydrogen generators. 🔋 With 30 patents and over 100 publications, his research covers lithium-ion, aluminum-ion, and nickel-zinc batteries, plus hydrogen storage. 🚀 He coordinated the FP7 MATFLEXEND project and now leads the BMBF Zn-H2 project, focusing on micro-batteries and hydrogen storage systems. 🌟

Publication profile

Google scholar

Education

Dr. Robert Hahn is the head of the Micro Energy Group at Fraunhofer IZM in Berlin. He earned his M.Sc. (1986) and Ph.D. (1990) in Electrical Engineering from the Technical University of Dresden. He joined Fraunhofer IZM in 1994.

Teaching & Projects

He lectures on micro energy storage at the Technical University of Berlin. His team is prototyping micro-batteries and demonstrating hydrogen storage systems for industrial applications.

Research focus

Based on the provided publications, this researcher’s focus is on advancing battery technologies and energy systems. Their work spans various types of batteries, including aluminum-graphite and microbatteries, and involves enhancing performance and stability through novel materials and design approaches. Key contributions include developing high-performance aluminum batteries, planar micro fuel cells, and exploring recycling processes for lithium-ion batteries. Their research also addresses energy autonomy in sensor systems and innovations in power supplies. The integration of advanced materials and cutting-edge technologies is central to their work, aiming to improve energy storage and efficiency. 🔋🔬🔧

Publication top notes

An overview and future perspectives of aluminum batteries

Development of a planar micro fuel cell with thin film and micro patterning technologies

Planar self-breathing fuel cells

\Insights into the reversibility of aluminum graphite batteries

Closed-loop hydrometallurgical treatment of end-of-life lithium ion batteries: Towards zero-waste process and metal recycling in advanced batteries

Stability of planar PEMFC in printed circuit board technology

Physics with colder molecular ions: the Heidelberg Cryogenic storage ring CSR

Batteries and power supplies for wearable and ubiquitous computing

Polyacrylonitrile separator for high-performance aluminum batteries with improved interface stability

Energy autonomous sensor systems: Towards a ubiquitous sensor technology