As solar energy becomes an increasingly important source of renewable power, ensuring that solar power systems operate reliably and efficiently is essential. Equipment failures and fluctuations in power quality can reduce performance and increase costs for operators and consumers alike.
Meet Ph.D. candidate Sukanta Roy from the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, whose research focuses on improving the performance and reliability of solar power systems. By analyzing real-world data collected over several years, Sukanta has developed methods to detect early signs of equipment issues and implement solutions that enhance system stability and efficiency.
His work has practical implications for the renewable energy sector. By reducing unexpected failures and improving power quality, Sukanta’s research helps solar operators save time and money while supporting the broader adoption of clean energy. The insights from his research also contribute to designing more resilient and sustainable energy systems.
Sukanta’s inspiration for this research comes from over a decade of experience in power generation and his time at the FIU solar plant, where he witnessed first-hand the challenges of maintaining reliable solar systems. He discovered that combining engineering expertise with advanced data analysis can uncover surprising opportunities for improvement, highlighting the power of interdisciplinary approaches.
Expected to graduate this fall, Sukanta’s work is advancing the efficiency and dependability of solar energy, helping pave the way toward a more sustainable energy future.