BIO
Kien Nguyen is a PhD candidate at the University of Tasmania with a background in electrical engineering, specialising in power systems. He is passionate about supporting the transition to renewable energy and ensuring the safe, reliable integration of renewable sources into modern power grids. His current research focuses on advanced control techniques for variable-speed pumped hydro storage, aiming to enhance grid stability and flexibility in high-renewable environments. His broader interests include power system dynamics, control systems, and electrical machinery.
PROJECT TITLE
Dynamic modelling of pumped hydro storage systems in renewable energy based power systems
SUPERVISORY TEAM
PROJECT SUMMARY
Kien’s research focuses on developing a model predictive control (MPC) framework for variable-speed pumped hydro storage (VS-PHS) systems. The project aims to improve the flexibility and reliability of hydropower in supporting frequency regulation and energy balancing, particularly in power systems with high penetration of inverter-based renewable energy during frequency disturbances. By modelling detailed electromechanical dynamics and applying predictive control strategies, the project explores how controlled kinetic energy release from hydro units can provide fast, coordinated grid support without compromising system stability.