2023 SOLVE Spring Conference: Fostering Collaboration and Advancing Renewable Energy Solutions
May 23-24, 2020 We are thrilled to report on the successful second SOLVE internal conference, the 2023 SOLVE Spring Conference, held on May 23-24, 2023. The conference, hosted by our Mälardalen University partners, brought together 56 participants in academia and industry. The event provided a platform for academics, industrial partners, PhDs, and their supervisors, to meet, exchange knowledge, and explore collaboration opportunities.
Bengt Stridh from Mälardalen University led the local organization of the local conference and welcomed all participants. The conference began with a overview by Director Marika Edoff, who gave insights into the progress of the SOLVE Project in 2022 as well as an update on its current state.
(Image removed) Photo: Bengt Stridh, theme 5 - Economics and Business Models, from Mälardalen University
Throughout the conference, a number of distinguished SOLVE Partners delivered talks and added their expertise to the event. Among the notable invited speakers were Thomas Cajander, from Hemsö; Filip Wiqvist, from KP Energy; Simon Lahr, from Next2Sun; Johan Lindahl, from Bequerel Sweden; and Jorunn Carell, from Svenska kraftnät. Their talks covered a wide range of topics and stimulated discussions on research updates and upcoming activities as well as strategies to enhance collaborations between academic and industrial partners.
(Image removed) Photo: Invited speaker Johan Lindahl from Bequerel Sweden.
A group meeting for PhD students and their supervisors was organized to foster a supportive environment. This meeting was an opportunity to discuss specific challenges, provide guidance, and foster mentoring relationships to help propel their research forward.
During the breaks a poster session was held, creating an atmosphere of lively conversations and knowledge-sharing. Participants were able to explore a wide range of research projects and network with peers. They also exchanged valuable insights.
One of the highlights of the conference was an exciting visit to the agrivoltaic research site at Karrbo Prästgård. Pietro Campana at Mälardalen University – Land Sharing Theme leader, and Silvia Ma Lu – PhD Student at Mälardalen University led the attendees to experience the innovative systems at the site. This field trip highlighted the practical applications of renewable energies and the potential to integrate solar energy production into agricultural practices.
Farmer Ulf Andrésson hosted a delicious dinner to conclude the event in a memorable way. Participants were able to relax, network and build connections within a relaxed environment.
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Photo: Theme leaders at the agrivoltaic research site at Karrbo Prästgård. From back left: Peter Kovács (RISE), Michiel Van Noord, (RISE), Pietro Campana (MDU), Jonathan Scragg (Uppsala University). From left front: Markus Rinio (Karlstad University), Chris Bales (Dalarna University), André Augusto (Dalarna University), Marika Edoff (Uppsala University), Bengt Stridh (Mälardalen University).
The SOLVE Spring 2023 Conference was a remarkable gathering that brought together brilliant minds to advance renewable energy solutions. We are grateful to the organizers and speakers, as well as the participants and partners, who made this conference such a success. We will continue to foster collaboration, accelerate research, and pioneer sustainable energy solutions for our future.
(Image removed) Photo: Particiants of the 2023 SOLVE Spring Conference.
Stay tuned for updates about future SOLVE conferences and initiatives which will continue to drive innovations and bring us closer towards a cleaner and greener tomorrow.