Renewable energy, particularly wind and solar power, is playing an increasingly important role in diversifying and reducing carbon emissions in the energy sector. It is currently the primary option for decarbonizing the power sector in line with long-term IEA (International Energy Agency) goals to limit global warming to 2°C.
Many countries aim to achieve high levels of renewable energy in their power systems by mid-century. To do so, they are exploring innovative solutions that involve advancements in technology, business models, market design, and system operations. Key to this goal is improving weather forecasting for variable renewable power sources like wind and solar PV, as these sources rely on real-time weather conditions. Accurate forecasting would provide valuable insights into resource availability, allowing for more reliable energy production from these sources.
The objective of this proposal is to develop a research program at ONEE -Office National de l’Électricité et de l’Eau Potable- allowing reliable predictions in the context of renewable energies. The idea is to develop a tool for predicting cloud cover and wind so as to be as close as possible to reality and therefore to the energy production of a solar or wind station respectively.
To achieve the project's goals, a permanent measurement station will supplement the model Comparing the model's predictions with on-site measurements at various ONEE sites in Morocco is essential for refining the forecasting model. The project has shown the potential to enhance forecasting accuracy through on-site measurements, and the forecasting tool may also assist in identifying suitable new locations for renewable energy installations.
The selected candidate will have the opportunity to work with a double team of world-leading experts in atmospheric prediction and renewable energy production. The PhD work will take place at the CSTE “Centre des Sciences et Techniques de l’Électricité” of ONEE located in Ain Sebaa, Casablanca, Morocco. Several scientific stays are also scheduled at the Laboratoire Lagrange located in Nice, France, to allow the future PhD student, training on prediction techniques and tools within the team of the Observatoire de la Côte d’Azur who are partners in the project.
The candidate must hold Moroccan citizenship and have graduated in either 2022 or 2023 with a degree in either State Engineering or a Master's program from a reputable local or international institution. A committee consisting of experts from OCA and ONEE will conduct the candidate’s evaluation.
Interesting research fund from the stakeholders will be available
Required skills: Physics, Optics, Renewable Energy, Atmospheric physics, Meteorology and English fluency
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