JAMES NAUGHTON, PhD
My Skills & Experience
Electrical engineer with specialisation in electrical power systems and grid integration of renewable technologies. Recent focus has been on the development of bespoke modelling tools to simulate dynamic operation envelopes. Experienced with computer-based modelling and optimisation, both with a range of power system modelling software and developing new modelling tools. This highlights adaptability and ability to apply core engineering knowledge and skills to different tasks. Experienced in the modelling of multi-energy systems, specifically electricity and hydrogen. Proven written and verbal skills through numerous publications and presentations at webinars, workshops, and conferences. Keen interest in personal and professional development, sharing my knowledge, and contributing to a positive workplace culture.
CURRENT ROLE
RESEARCH FELLOW - DISTRIBUTED ENERGY MARKETS, THE UNIVERSITY OF MELBOURNE
September 2021 - Present
I am working as a researcher in the University of Melbourne Power Systems Group. My role includes providing technical expertise on high profile projects such as Project EDGE and Power Melbourne, developing bespoke tools, conducting power system modelling and analysis, and conveying results through presentations and technical reports. This work has included:
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Development of a bespoke tool to provide techno-economic modelling of dynamic operating envelopes for Project EDGE. This included investigation of the efficacy of dynamic operating envelopes in different networks and DER penetration levels, as well as investigating different options to implement fair dynamic operating envelopes.
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Design of a distribution locational marginal pricing methodology for DER marketplace design. Used to inform possible design of a local services market and potential interactions with existing wholesale markets.
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Techno-economic modelling of community batteries to provide analysis of the impacts of different operational strategies of community batteries and of the different revenue streams available to a community battery.
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Presenting project findings to project stakeholders such as AER and AEMC as well as forums of industry specialists such as the Demonstrations Insights Forum and Market Integration Consultative Forum.
PAST EXPERIENCE
Past Roles
RESEARCHER, UNIVERSITY OF MELBOURNE
September 2017 - September 2021
During my time conducting research for my PhD, I work on a number of projects as well as assisting in the development and delivery of the Power Systems modules to Masters students at the university. My original research has also resulted in a number of publications. This work has included:
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A state-of-the-art power systems techno-economic modelling framework for virtual power plants. The development and implementation of this framework is one of the main contributions of my thesis.
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Power systems modelling and techno-economic analysis for The Hydrogen Utility™ during the concept phase of Green H2/NH3 Supply Chain Demonstrator
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Developing power system modelling tools, tutorials, and workshops for a new University of Melbourne power systems course, as well as conducting demonstrations for students.
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Evaluation of student outputs and providing technical guidance to solve problems
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GRADUATE ENGINEER, MOTT MACDONALD
September 2015 - June 2017
During my time at Mott MacDonald I worked in a number of teams within the Railways Division including Traction Power, Electrical, and Fire Safety teams.
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Conducted electrical load flow and fault analysis utilizing power systems modelling software ETAP for the 33kV network upgrade to power Dubai Metro Route 2020.
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Conducted advanced simulations with in-house traction power system modelling software TRAIN.
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Provided engineering design and verification services on a range of domestic and international projects to comply with relevant standards, as well as writing technical reports for clients.
Additional to my technical role, I also undertook a number of other responsibilities within the company such as:
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Acting as the Railways Division Business Management Systems Representative to ensure divisional compliance.
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Working as part of the team to a Europe and North America Regional Dragon’s Den competition within the company.
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ACADEMIC EXPERIENCE
My Studies
September 2017 - July 2022
POWER SYSTEMS PHD, UNIVERSITY OF MELBOURNE & UNIVERSITY OF BIRMINGHAM
Project involves creating a modelling framework for a stochastic virtual power plant with multiple energy vectors.
The framework utilises optimal power flow and can be used to model the optimal operation of a multi-energy virtual power plant that maximises its revenue whilst providing numerous network services.
Work published during my studies can be found on the Publications Page.
September 2011 - June 2015
MASTER OF ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING, UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHAMPTON
Completed modules in a wide range of topics including power systems, control, optimisation, electrical materials and power electronics.Â
Awarded 1st Class with Honours. Received Southampton University Zepler Scholarship for academic excellence.
PROFICIENCIES
I’m always looking for new and useful skills that will help me do better work. Whether I’m working on a new collaboration or doing something on my own, there is always room for improvement and new things to learn. Have a look at my skillset and let me know if you need additional information.
ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING
Advanced
POWER SYSTEM MODELLING & ANALYSIS
Advanced
PYTHON
Intermediate
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