Researcher Summary
Currently my research is focused on a) the optimization of energy and electricity systems which contain energy storage, and b) the transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy resources in industry and transport. The optimization studies involve system modelling to find the best mix of generation capacity and energy storage from both environmental and economic points of view. A study on the use of liquid hydrogen as an aviation fuel for NZ is presently in progress. I maintain an active interest in international developments in carbon management, environmental psychology and energy economics, following on from a 4-year Marsden Fund project entitled "Carbon Neutrality - fact or fiction?" conducted with colleagues in the social sciences. Recent consultancy activities include modelling and data collection for a 100% renewable electricity system for a remote island and I am currently involved in a resilient energy system design for a small community.
Previous research areas include physical and mathematical modelling of the composting process, source separation of solid resource residuals, agricultural waste treatment and industrial waste treatment.
