The first 'cohort' of the Faculty of Impact focuses on the theme Energy Transition and Sustainability. Within this theme, ten so-called 'fellows' have been selected. The ten selected researchers will receive 200,000 euros and two years of intensive and personal guidance from experts in the field of entrepreneurship, intellectual property and investments.
Sem Vijverberg is selected for his research proposal titled 'Stabilizing electricity grids and maximizing feed-in of renewables with AI-based forecasts several weeks ahead'. Vijverberg explains: "The massive transition towards renewables, combined with more frequent climate extremes, is strongly increasing energy market volatility. Reliable weather forecasts weeks to months ahead are urgently needed to support stakeholders in the energy sector to optimally plan production, maintenance, resources and distribution. Our Artificial Intelligence based forecasts outcompete those of operational systems and have the potential to disrupt the modus operandi in the energy sector. Forecast products for the energy sector would support the transition to resilient and sustainable energy systems by 1) keeping energy affordable, (2) optimizing the share of renewables and (3) fostering energy security."
About the Faculty of Impact
One of the ambitions of the Netherlands is to ensure that scientific research is also used to address societal issues and realise economic growth. Many scientific discoveries do not reach the market, partly because researchers often lack the experience and knowledge needed to make an innovation market-ready and set up a commercial organisation. Therefore, the Faculty of Impact offers an intensive, two-year programme for scientists who want to make an impact with their research and start their own business.