Multiport Power Converters for Renewable Energy and Energy Storage Systems

About the research project

The global transition to renewable energy is driving demand for efficient, reliable, and cost-effective power conversion technologies for applications ranging from microgrids and remote communities to offshore energy systems, electric transportation, and next-generation energy storage. Conventional power electronic interfaces typically rely on multiple unidirectional and bidirectional converters to integrate renewable generation, batteries, fuel cells, and other energy resources. While these approaches provide operational flexibility, they often increase system complexity, component count, cost, and power losses.

Multiport power converters offer a promising alternative by enabling the integration and coordinated management of multiple energy sources and storage devices through a single power conversion stage. Such converters have the potential to improve power density, increase efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance system reliability. However, significant challenges remain in developing advanced converter architectures, control methods, energy management strategies, and practical implementation techniques capable of delivering high performance under diverse operating conditions.

This project will investigate and develop novel multiport power converter topologies and advanced control strategies for renewable energy and energy storage applications. Research activities may encompass converter design, modelling, modulation techniques, power flow management, energy management, optimisation, fault-tolerant operation, and advanced control methodologies. Particular emphasis will be placed on improving efficiency, power density, flexibility, scalability, reliability, and economic viability through theoretical analysis, simulation studies, hardware prototyping, and experimental validation.

Primary supervisor

Meet Doctor Waqas Hassan

Funding

Applicants will be considered for a Research Training Program (RTP) scholarship or Tasmania Graduate Research Scholarship (TGRS) which, if successful, provides:

• a living allowance stipend funded by University of Tasmania of $34,315 per annum for 3.5 years (PhD) or 2 years (Master by Research)
• a relocation allowance of up to $2,000
• a tuition fees offset covering the cost of tuition fees for up to four years (domestic applicants only)

A tuition fee offset may be offered to eligible international applicants following competitive assessment 

As part of the application process you may indicate if you do not wish to be considered for scholarship funding.

Additional Funding

A top-up scholarship may be awarded by the Centre for Renewable Energy and Power Systems (CREPS) based on academic performance and research progress.

Other funding opportunities and fees

For further information regarding other scholarships on offer, and the various fees for undertaking a research degree, please visit our Scholarships and fees on research degrees page.

Eligibility

Applicants should review the Higher Degree by Research minimum entry requirements.

Ensure your eligibility for the scholarship round by referring to our Key Dates.

Selection criteria

The project is competitively assessed and awarded. Selection is based on academic merit and suitability to the project as determined by the College.

Application process

1. Select your project, and check that you meet the eligibility and selection criteria, including citizenship;
2. Contact Doctor Waqas Hassan to discuss your suitability and the project's requirements; and
3. In your application:
   • Copy and paste the title of the project from this advertisement into your application. If you don’t correctly do this your application may be rejected.
   • Submit a signed supervisory support form, a CV including contact details of 2 referees and your project research proposal.
4. Apply prior to 1 October 2026.

Full details of the application process can be found under the ' How to apply ' section of the Research Degrees website.

Following the closing date applications will be assessed within the College. Applicants should expect to receive notification of the outcome by email by the advertised outcome date.

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