Alex Tro-Cabrera | Energy Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by Civil

Mr Alex Tro-Cabrera | Energy Engineering | Best Researcher Award

PhD Student, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Spain

Alex Tro-Cabrera is a researcher in training at the Universidad del País Vasco (UPV/EHU) in the Department of Electronic Technology. He holds a degree in Renewable Energy Engineering (2021) and a master’s in Energy Efficiency and Sustainability (2022). His doctoral research, under the EHUkhi project, focuses on photovoltaic potential in buildings, community energy models, and sustainability financing. He has worked at the Instituto de Ingeniería Energética (UPV) and DEBEGESA, contributing to thermal energy systems and microgrid feasibility studies. He is a member of EKOPOL, a multidisciplinary research group on political economy and ecology.

PROFESSIONAL PROFILE

Orcid

STRENGTHS FOR THE AWARD

  1. Strong Academic Background
    Alex Tro-Cabrera holds a Master’s in Research in Energy Efficiency and Sustainability from the University of the Basque Country (EHU/UPV) and a Bachelor’s in Renewable Energy Engineering from the same institution. His academic progression demonstrates a clear focus on sustainability and energy efficiency.
  2. Active Research Contributions
    He is currently a doctoral researcher in Electronic Technology at the University of the Basque Country and is part of the EKOPOL research group, recognized by the Basque Government. His work focuses on photovoltaic integration in buildings, energy communities, and sustainability impacts, aligning well with modern energy transition challenges.
  3. Publications in High-Impact Journals
    • “A methodology for assessing rooftop solar photovoltaic potential using GIS open-source software and the EROI constraint” (Energy and Buildings, 2025)
    • “Energy rehabilitation of a construction quality control laboratory” (Engineering Thermodynamics Conference, 2022)
    • “Optimización de la instalación PV del LCCE” (2022, Universidad del País Vasco)
      These works highlight his expertise in GIS-based solar energy assessments, photovoltaic optimization, and building energy efficiency, demonstrating both theoretical and applied research impact.
  4. Industry & Professional Experience
    • Worked at the Instituto de Ingeniería Energética (Universitat Politècnica de València) as a Thermal Lab Technician (2017).
    • Interned at DEBEGESA, analyzing microgrid viability (2019).
      His past industry experience, coupled with his academic research, makes him a well-rounded candidate for the award.
  5. Research Funding and Recognition
    He is funded by the Eusko Jaurlaritza’s Programa Investigo (2022-2024), which supports outstanding early-career researchers. His involvement in a government-backed project (EHUkhi) further solidifies his research credibility.

AREAS FOR IMPROVEMENT

  • Broader International Exposure: While he has strong regional recognition, increased collaboration with international research institutions or projects would strengthen his global impact.
  • Diversification of Research Publications: Expanding publications in high-impact international journals and participating in leading global conferences could enhance his academic profile.

EDUCATION 🎓

  • Máster en Investigación en Eficiencia Energética y Sostenibilidad – Universidad del País Vasco (2022)
  • Grado en Ingeniería de Energías Renovables – Universidad del País Vasco (2021)
  • Técnico Superior en Energías Renovables – CIPFP Catarroja (2017)

EXPERIENCE 🏆

  • Investigador predoctoral – Universidad del País Vasco (2022–Present)
  • Investigador en prácticas – DEBEGESA (2019)
  • Técnico Superior en Investigación – Instituto de Ingeniería Energética, UPV (2017)

AWARDS AND HONORS 🏅

  • Programa Investigo – Eusko Jaurlaritza (2022–2024)

RESEARCH FOCUS 🔬

  • Renewable Energy – Photovoltaics, Micro-wind, Biomass
  • Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) – Environmental and social impacts
  • Energy Communities – Collective self-consumption models
  • Sustainability & Ecologism – Green energy transitions

PUBLICATION TOP NOTES 📄

  • A methodology for assessing rooftop solar photovoltaic potential using GIS open-source software and the EROI constraint – Energy and Buildings (2025)
  • Optimización de la instalación PV del LCCE – Universidad del País Vasco (2022)
  • Energy rehabilitation of a construction quality control laboratory – Conference on Engineering Thermodynamics (2022)

CONCLUSION

Alex Tro-Cabrera is an outstanding researcher in renewable energy, photovoltaics, and energy sustainability. His combination of academic excellence, impactful research, practical experience, and government-backed projects makes him a strong contender for the Best Researcher Award. With further international collaborations and diversified high-impact publications, he can establish himself as a leading expert in sustainable energy solutions.

Eric Ofosu Antwi – Hydropower – Best Researcher Award

Posted on by Civil

Eric Ofosu Antwi - Hydropower - Best Researcher Award

University of Energy and Natural Resources - Ghana

AUTHOR PROFILE

GOOGLE SCHOLAR

Based on the provided information about Prof. Eric Ofosu Antwi, he appears to be a strong candidate for the Research for Community Impact Award for several reasons:

ACADEMIC LEADERSHIP AND INSTITUTIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Prof. Eric Ofosu Antwi has made substantial contributions to the University of Energy and Natural Resources (UENR) since its inception. As the first academic staff appointed, he played a pivotal role in the university's infrastructure development without an official appointment letter or salary. His leadership in establishing the first engineering department and introducing key undergraduate and postgraduate programs demonstrates his dedication to academic excellence and institutional growth. His efforts in securing funding for postgraduate students and his role as the acting Director of Works, where he saved the university significant funds, highlight his commitment to the institution's development.

INNOVATIVE RESEARCH AND ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY

Prof. Antwi's research interests and publications reflect a strong focus on sustainable energy and environmental management. His investigation into the impacts of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, the impact of mining on land use and water quality, and climate change projections in the Volta Basin showcase his dedication to addressing critical environmental issues. His ability to secure agreements for solar energy installations at UENR's campuses underscores his commitment to practical solutions for sustainability.

PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATIONS AND TECHNICAL EXPERTISE

Prof. Antwi holds numerous professional certifications that enhance his technical expertise, including Project Management Professional (PMP), Sustainable Energy Management Professional, and various certifications in solar PV installation and hydropower engineering. These certifications demonstrate his continuous professional development and ability to apply advanced technical knowledge to real-world problems.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND IMPACT

Prof. Antwi's work extends beyond the university to benefit the broader community. His role in securing land and developing new campuses for UENR, as well as his initiatives to install solar energy systems, directly contribute to community development and sustainability. His connections with local and international organizations, such as Newmont Ghana Gold Limited and the Bui Power Authority, further illustrate his ability to mobilize resources and create impactful partnerships.

PUBLICATIONS AND SCHOLARLY CONTRIBUTIONS

Prof. Antwi has contributed to scholarly knowledge through his publications on solar PV systems, the environmental impact of mining, and climate change projections. These publications not only advance academic understanding but also provide valuable insights for policymakers and practitioners working on environmental sustainability and renewable energy.

CONCLUSION

Prof. Eric Ofosu Antwi's extensive experience in academic leadership, innovative research in environmental sustainability, professional expertise, and impactful community engagement make him a highly suitable candidate for the Research for Community Impact Award. His contributions have significantly advanced both the University of Energy and Natural Resources and the broader community, aligning perfectly with the award's criteria.

NOTABLE PUBLICATION

Impact of mining on land use land cover change and water quality in the Asutifi North District of Ghana, West Africa 2022 (56)

Investigation into the impacts of design, installation, operation and maintenance issues on performance and degradation of installed solar photovoltaic (PV) systems 2022 (55)

Assessing climate change projections in the Volta Basin using the CORDEX-Africa climate simulations and statistical bias-correction 2022 (36)

Integrated modeling of hydrological processes and groundwater recharge based on land use land cover, and climate changes: A systematic review 2022 (37)

Hydrologic response to climate change in the Densu River Basin in Ghana 2020 (32)