Launched by University of Pennsylvania, MyHeartMap Challenge Aims to Integrate Social Media with Emergency Health Preparedness

Abu Dhabi-UAE: 1 February, 2012 – Masdar Institute of Science and Technology, an independent, research-driven graduate-level university focused on advanced energy and sustainable technologies, today announced two of its faculty members are part of the group of international crowd-sourcing experts, teaming up to win the MyHeartMap Challenge that has been recently launched by the University of Pennsylvania in the US.

The MyHeartMap Challenge invites the public to participate by downloading a phone app that allows users to submit geo-tagged pictures of automated external defibrillators (AEDs) they see around Philadelphia, to create an effective location database of AEDs.

Masdar Institute’s computer scientists Dr. Iyad Rahwan and Sohan D’Souza and University of Southampton computational game theorists James McInerney, Dr. Victor Naroditskiy and Prof. Nick Jennings, will join the Massachusetts Institute of Technology Professor Sandy Pentland and University of California, San Diego (UCSD) Research Scientist Dr. Manuel Cebrian, to solve the MyHeartMap Challenge.

Professor Pentland and Dr. Cebrian were part of the team that won the US$40,000 prize at the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) Network’s Red Balloon Challenge in 2009.

The scientists’ team has invited social networkers to get in on the MyHeartMap Challenge that aims to integrate social media with emergency health preparedness.

It is estimated that some 300,000 people die in the US every year from sudden out-of-hospital cardiac arrests, some of which could be prevented through the timely use of a defibrillator. The University of Pennsylvania explains that the inability to locate AEDs in such emergency situations greatly reduces their intended life-saving impact.

The challenge will award US$10,000 to the team that finds and photographs the most AEDs in Philadelphia County in four weeks while the team or individual that finds the most confirmed eligible AEDs by the contest end date will receive the grand prize of US$10,000. The competition also has flagged a number of ‘Golden AEDs’ – which have a US$50 bonus for the first team or individual who photographs and submits the Golden AED to the contest.

Dr. Rahwan said: “Our team will use crowdsourcing to encourage people to report the location of AEDs, to verify other reports, and to recruit new participants. If we win, the money will be split among the participants who helped find defibrillators and the participants who recruited them.

“Crowdsourcing provides an unprecedented ability to accomplish information-gathering tasks that require the involvement of a large number of people, often at geographically spread out locations. The success of a task relies on the ability to identify trustworthy information reports, while false reports are bound to appear either due to honest mistakes or sabotage attempts. This information verification problem is a difficult task, which, just like the information gathering task, requires the involvement of a large number of people. Our team develops methods for solving this problem through crowdsourcing: we crowdsource not just gathering, but also verification of information.”

Dr. Rahwan recently co-authored a paper with the DARPA Network Challenge winners on their use of social networks to mobilize people to contribute to their team’s efforts. The paper was recently published in the prestigious Science journal.

Dr.Naroditskiy said: “When your goal is to find as many AEDs within as large an area as possible, it would seem obvious that the best way to do that is to involve as many people in the search as possible. That’s what our team is trying to achieve through our expertise in social networking, mobilization and technology.”

The team will use the challenge to test some of their theoretical research on social network mobilization and incentivization as well as verification, which adds a new layer of complexity not yet seen in crowdsourcing challenges.

Dr. Cebrian said: “To most people social networks are just a way to talk to their friends or share videos. But to scientists like us, they represent a unique way to form large teams of people to work in a coordinated way to achieve difficult tasks. If we can harness that power of social networks, then we can enlist countless numbers of helpful volunteers to canvass Philadelphia and seek out and verify the AEDs that are currently not geo-tagged or on any map. This information can later prove to be lifesaving for someone going through sudden cardiac arrest.”

The team will be shortly launching its own website to attract team recruits to help identify as many AEDs as possible. Those interested in participating in the team’s efforts can visit http://scailab.media.mit.edu/heartcrowd

The MyHeartMap Challenge was launched on 31 January and will run through 13 March.
 

Masdar Institute Entrusted with Hosting and Maintaining Atlas Servers at Its Sustainable Campus

Abu Dhabi-UAE: 25 January, 2012 – Masdar Institute of Science and Technology, an independent, research-driven graduate-level university focused on advanced energy and sustainable technologies, and the Abu Dhabi-headquartered International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) today signed a memorandum of understanding to support the developing and advancing of a publicly-accessible atlas of solar and wind resources.

The MoU was signed by Dr. Fred Moavenzadeh, President of Masdar Institute, and Adnan Z. Amin, Director-General, IRENA, in Abu Dhabi. Dr Joseph Cecchi, Provost, Masdar Institute, and Gauri Singh, Director of IRENA Knowledge Management, Innovation and Technology, were present on the occasion.

The agreement ensures cooperation between the two organizations for exchange of information; joint implementation of project activities, analyses and research studies; as well as defining technical compatibility and methodological harmonization and data transparency protocols for solar and wind data. Other areas covered by the MoU include participating in developing the architecture of the global atlas and hosting and maintaining the atlas servers at Masdar Institute; capacity development among stakeholders in participating countries, as well as assisting developing countries to build their renewable energy technology databases.

According to the agreement, Dr. Hosni Ghedira, Director of the UAE Research Center for Renewable Energy Mapping and Assessment, will represent Masdar Institute in the project, while Ali Nimer, Acting Director, Administration and Management Services, will represent IRENA. Dr. Taha B.M.J. Ouarda, Professor – Water & Environmental Engineering, Masdar Institute, is also the Deputy Director of the UAE Research Center for Renewable Energy Mapping and Assessment.

Dr Hosni Ghedira is also an Associate Professor – Water and Environmental Engineering, at Masdar Institute. Before moving to the UAE, Dr Ghedira spent six years at the City University of New York as an Assistant Professor and Research Associate Professor. He also acted as Director of the Environmental Remote Sensing and Image Processing Laboratory at the NOAA Cooperative Remote Sensing Science & Technology Center in New York for more than four years. Dr. Ghedira’s current research interests include: application of remote sensing in environmental monitoring; solar and wind potential mapping; water resources management in water-scarce regions; satellite image processing; and remote sensing algorithm development. Dr. Ghedira has authored and co-authored more than 60 publications in peer-reviewed journals and referred conference proceedings. He has also supervised four PhD theses and 15 M.Sc. theses in the US and the UAE.

Prior to joining IRENA, Ali Nimer was the ICT Department Manager at Masdar, and IT Manager and Program Officer – Science & Technology at Emirates Foundation for Philanthropy. Earlier, he worked as Operations Manager at Injazat Data Systems.

The Research Center for Renewable Energy Mapping and Assessment at Masdar Institute aims to develop regional knowledge and leadership in renewable energy assessment and mapping for the UAE and globally. The Center responds to the objective of the UAE to support IRENA in its advancement of a publicly-accessible atlas of solar and wind resources, particularly for developing countries. The Center is in the process of building profiles of solar and wind resource quality, land use, and grid connectivity in the UAE through partnership between Masdar Institute, the UAE Directorate of Energy and Climate Change (DECC), IRENA and mapping/resource assessment entities, including those already involved in IRENA’s global atlas project. 

Dr. Fred Moavenzadeh said: “The MoU with IRENA comes within the general framework of cooperation between two organizations that continue to promote clean energy and sustainable technologies. As a research-oriented academic institution, Masdar Institute provides the right ingredients to enable innovation and as an international agency that promotes renewable energy, IRENA has similar objectives. We believe the MoU will bring out the synergy in both organizations to develop publicly-accessible data on solar and wind resources. We thank the country’s leadership for helping us develop into one of the most advanced institutions that offers expertise in this domain.”

Adnan Z. Amin said: “IRENA is delighted to enter into this agreement with Masdar Institute, a research-oriented institution that focuses on clean energy and sustainable technologies. Developing publicly-accessible atlas of solar and wind resources is fundamental to widen the use of clean and renewable energy. We are confident that together with the academic and research capabilities of Masdar Institute, we will be able to provide distinctive data that will be useful for everyone who is keen to tap clean energy.”

The aim of the global atlas is to build on existing partnerships and develop an inclusive, open system connecting the major databases and information sources. It also aims at creating as little new information as possible. Instead, the information will be gathered through partnerships, and based on an-open system architecture. This calls for using a state-of-the-art collaborative architecture, which provides an easy and unified way to access the different existing data sets yet from various sources and portals.

In November 2011, an initial prototype of the Global Atlas on Solar and Wind Energy was presented at the Multilateral Solar and Wind Working Group in Berlin, Germany. The prototype was to be refined to better represent user data needs and integrate additional tools and data sets. Several end-user groups discussed their data needs at the meeting. The United Nations Environment Programme is collecting additional end-user information via an online survey.

Established in collaboration with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Masdar Institute integrates theory and practice to incubate a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship, working to develop the critical thinkers and leaders of tomorrow.  With its world-class faculty and top-tier students, the Institute is committed to finding solutions to the challenges of clean energy and climate change.
 

Masdar Institute provides theoretical and practical experience for future scientists of the United Arab Emirates
Renewable energy projects to diversify energy sources and enhance energy security

Abu Dhabi-UAE: 30 January, 2012 – Dr Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, CEO of Masdar and Chairman of the Executive Committee of the Board of Trustees of the Masdar Institute of Science and Technology (MI), commended Abu Dhabi’s Executive Council for approving the Institute’s budget for 2012. He explained that the move reflects the Executive Council’s keen interest in supporting the development of human capital amongst Emirati locals and enabling the development of a new generation of Emirati future scientists who specialize in the areas of renewable energy, clean technology and sustainable development.

“Abu Dhabi is evolving from a resource-based economy to a knowledge-based economy through research-driven institutions like the Masdar Institute. Nurturing future leaders in the science and technology spheres is a fundamental mandate of the Masdar Institute. This is essential to the UAE’s long-term plan of achieving sustained economic growth and social progress. Through these academic efforts, we seek to directly meet the needs of key target sectors and important stakeholders directly relevant to Abu Dhabi’s major investments.”

“More importantly, the Masdar Institute seeks new ways to instill practical applications in throughout the student’s life in at the Institute. This enables graduates to immediately integrate into the work field upon graduation. MI students are fully equipped to practically interpret their insights and ideas; providing value to both the public and private sector,” he added.

Such measures are facilitated by the Executive Council’s approval of Masdar Institute’s budget clearly demonstrate Abu Dhabi’s support for fostering research and development, as well as enhancing the acquisition of knowledge and skills in renewable energy technologies. In turn, the Masdar Institute represents the research and development nucleus of Masdar City.

Dr Al Jaber also commented on the Executive Council’s approval of the budget of the “Shams One” Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) plant in the western region of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi and the construction of the Sir Bani Yas onshore wind farm.  He explained that these projects achieve a set of benefits, including prolonging the life of the UAE’s hydrocarbon economy through the adoption and implementation of a diverse energy mix.

Construction is currently in progress at the Shams One project site, the 100 MW Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) plant being developed in the Western Region of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. Commercial operations on the plant are expected to begin in 2012. Shams One is set to be one of the largest CSP projects in the world and the first in the Middle East region. The project is owned by Shams Power Company, the entity that develops and manages the plant’s operations. It was established specifically for that purpose through a joint venture between Masdar (60%), TOTAL (20%) and Abengoa Solar (20%). The plant will contribute in securing renewable and clean energy in Abu Dhabi’s western region which will in turn help in the UAE’s sustainable socio-economic development.

Furthermore, Masdar City’s 10 MW solar farm has been operational for the past three years. Connected to the Abu Dhabi National Electricity Grid, the solar farm produces enough power to cover the energy needs of Masdar Institute and Masdar City residents and workers and feeds excess energy back into the grid. The project contributed in offsetting over 23.8 thousand tonnes of carbon emissions.

In addition, Masdar is also partnering with TDIC to develop an onshore wind farm on Sir Bani Yas Island, the natural reserve established by the late His Highness Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan. The wind farm will contribute to securing renewable and clean energy to cater for the sustainable development projects planned for on the island.

Dr. Al Jaber underscored how the support of the Executive Council to the renewable energy projects reflects the strategic vision of the UAE’s wise leadership, as it is the main catalyst to all aspects of economic and social development.

The Masdar Institute of Science and Technology, a home grown, independent, research-driven graduate-level university focused on advanced energy and sustainable technologies, is implementing significant measures in support of human capital development to enable the creation of a knowledge-based economy in the UAE.

Some of the distinct measures being implemented by Masdar Institute include post-graduate research activities through industry collaborations in various clean technology areas, outreach programs to foster students and young professionals into industry leaders of tomorrow, and dedicated special programs through inter-institutional partnerships that ensure raising awareness on the need to be innovative to create a highly competitive global-standard economy.

The driving force behind Masdar Institute’s research is its strategic relevance and benefit to the Abu Dhabi government and the industry. As part of its continuing endeavor, Masdar Institute has formed a working group with various units of Abu Dhabi Government’s investment arm Mubadala, including Abu Dhabi’s multifaceted renewable energy initiative Masdar, to align the research interests between the two organizations. Discussions have also been held with Etisalat, Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC), the UAE Armed Forces, as well as other governmental and industry organizations on aligning Masdar Institute academic programs and research with these entities. A deal has already been signed with the Abu Dhabi-headquartered International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), which is awarding up to 20 scholarships at Masdar Institute.

More recently, Masdar Institute has entered into an agreement with Toyota Motor Corporation, the world’s leading automotive manufacturer to set up the Masdar Institute-Toyota Scholarship Program for conducting research on the advancement of low-carbon emission vehicle technologies, and a collaborative research deal with Masdar PV, a leading German-based manufacturer of photovoltaic films. An agreement with Siemens Energy Systems has also been signed on solar energy technology research and development to enhance the use of PV panels in the Middle East region. It has also signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with IRENA to support the developing of a publicly-accessible atlas of solar and wind resources.

Additionally, Masdar Institute engages with institutions such as Emirates Aluminum (EMAL), Abu Dhabi Company for Onshore Oil Operations (ADCO) as well as other organizations, through a number of mechanisms. Work is already under progress on the Sustainable Bioenergy Research Project (SBRP) with Boeing, Etihad Airways and Honeywell UOP.

Masdar Institute focuses on some of the strategic sectors that are pivotal to Abu Dhabi’s economic diversification. They include energy, petrochemicals, water, metals, aerospace, defense, biotechnology and telecommunications. These are in addition to renewable energy, clean mobility, sustainable cities, and the semiconductor industry.

Some of the areas the Institute aims to develop core capabilities include advanced materials, thermal-fluid sciences, water and environmental technologies, power systems, computational and information sciences, policy and economic modeling, engineering systems, microsystems, and chemical processes.

Moreover, the Institute is hosting a forum on ‘Bridging the Knowledge Economy’ in collaboration with Khalifa University, Zayed University (ZU), the United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) and the American University of Sharjah (AUS), to discuss ways to spur research and development investment, facilitate research and innovation capacity building and further strengthen entrepreneurship development. The event is being organized under the University Leadership Council (ULC) to bring together research universities, government agencies and private sector companies and identify potential investment opportunities through collaboration and long-term partnerships.

The University Leadership Council serves as a platform to engage academic, government and industry leaders and seek their support to develop human capital as well as research and innovation (R&I) capacity.

Realizing the need to develop indigenous capabilities, Masdar Institute is implementing the UAE National Foundation program, which enrolled a total of 55 Emirati students for the 2011/2012 academic year. This is in addition to the 71 UAE national students registered for the eight post-graduate programs. Foundation students who demonstrate excellent academic performance are also offered a two-week practical training course at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), where they are exposed to courses on sustainable energy with hands-on training.

MI is mandated to provide students with the knowledge, skills and experience necessary for successful careers in industrial or academic roles in their chosen fields.

Established in collaboration with MIT in the US, Masdar Institute integrates theory and practice to incubate a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship, working to develop the critical thinkers and leaders of tomorrow.  With its world-class faculty and top-tier students, the Institute also remains committed to finding solutions to the challenges of clean energy and climate change.
 

Exploring Antarctica, Masdar Institute Students Aim to Become Ambassadors for Education, Environment and Sustainability

Abu Dhabi-UAE: 28 January, 2012 – It will be an expedition with a difference – one that offers an opportunity to learn leadership and sustainable solutions, with the icy isolation of Antarctica as the backdrop.

Two students from Masdar Institute of Science and Technology will not only explore the Antarctic Peninsula, but experience ‘Leadership on the Edge’, Sir Robert Swan’s personal leadership and sustainability program, during their journey as part the International Antarctic Expedition (IAE) 2012 team.

Reem Al Junaibi and Maitha Al Kaabi recently joined Sir Robert Swan at the World Future Energy Summit (WFES) 2012 in Abu Dhabi in their pledge to support initiatives that will maintain the continent’s current status even after the Antarctica Treaty expires in the year 2041. The inclusion of the two students was announced at the YFEL stand after Sir Robert’s address, which urged the youth to help save Antarctica that holds 70% of the entire world’s fresh water.

The ‘Leadership on the Edge’ program challenges those individuals who are compelled to make a difference by deepening their awareness of themselves in relation to the world. In doing so, they adopt new ways of seeing, thinking and interacting that result in sustainable solutions. The IAE 2012 expedition aims to create ambassadors for education, the environment and sustainability across the globe.

Dr Lamya Fawwaz, Executive Director of Public Affairs, Masdar Institute, said: “The students chosen to be part of the International Antarctic Expedition team will be fortunate to experience the real life benefits of sustainability and renewable energy. Their research at Masdar Institute will benefit them and help contribute to the objectives of this exploration trip. We are confident their experience on the icy continent will encourage them to be more active campaigners of measures to curb global warming and environmental degradation. We are thankful to the UAE’s wise leadership for supporting us in all our sustainable initiatives.”

The two students were selected out of seven applicants, based on a 400-word essay that explained their reasons for joining the expedition and its relevance to the student’s ongoing research activities at Masdar Institute. Excellent physical health was another pre-requisite for the selection. A graduate student of Engineering Systems Management, Reem’s research focuses on the effect of having mixed sources of energy, specifically renewable, with its intermittent behavior on the electric grid, while Maitha is conducting her research in the preparation of materials for application in water treatment processes. Maitha is a graduate student and research assistant at Masdar Institute’s Water and Environmental Engineering, Green Composites and Bio-fuels Lab.

Al Junaibi will be applying the planning and forecasting tools she learned from Masdar Institute in Antarctica to help improve the reliability of renewable energy. She feels the different operational methods that are used in large cities can be applied at a micro-scale, and if properly managed, renewable energy can become a reliable source of energy.

Reem Al Junaibi said: “This trip to Antarctica is a great opportunity for me to gauge the advantages of sustainability and renewable energy and judge for myself how clean technologies can be tapped. I believe it will greatly benefit me academically. Currently, I am learning how variable renewable energy could be depending on the weather conditions, and how such reliability issues could be solved. In Antarctica, the most essential issue is reliability of the electricity provided by renewable energy and that is what I am looking at.

“I aim to further my understanding in climate change, to be able to analyze the issues of renewable energy in such an extremely cold environment, share my knowledge and inspire people when I return. I am looking forward to the journey to Antarctica and I thank Masdar Institute for selecting me to be part of this great voyage.”

Maitha Al Kaabi said: “I feel privileged to be included in the International Antarctica Expedition (IAE) 2012 team and I am grateful to Masdar Institute for giving me an opportunity to be part of this international group. This expedition to Antarctica would allow me to see the process of temperature induced salt precipitation, a key principle in my research, in a natural environment. Masdar Institute has provided me with the expertise in water treatment and desalination. I will share this knowledge with my partners during the Antarctica trip and look forward to benefiting from their knowledge as well.”

Guest experts with IAE 2012 team on the environment, climate change, sustainable development, and outdoor leadership will host presentations, debates, and lessons in the dynamic classroom of the Antarctica, giving team members a broad, practical base to start the process of change.

During their 16-day journey, Reem Al Junaibi and Maitha Al Kaabi will participate in the ‘2041 Education Base (E-Base) Goes Live’ mission by utilizing the knowledge they gained at Masdar Institute. The E-Base, powered solely by renewable energy, is intended to educate young people on the importance of preserving Antarctica, to promote the use of renewable energy, and to raise the awareness of global warming.

The 2041’s mission is to inform, engage and inspire the next generation of leaders to take responsibility, to be sustainable, and to know that now is the time for action in policy development, business generation and future technologies.

The journey is scheduled to commence on 27 February from Argentina’s Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world. Tucked into the Beagle Channel and surrounded by peaks and glaciers, Ushuaia is the ideal place for the students to begin the voyage and learn the need for sustainability and preservation of nature.

The IAE 2012 team members will stay two nights in a hotel high up on the mountain above the city of Ushuaia, where team leaders will check the clothing and equipment required for the Antarctic journey. The ‘Leadership on the Edge’ program begins on Day-2 with a ‘meet and greet’ session and team introductions. A hike up the Martial Glacier on the mountain behind the town is scheduled for Day 3 and team work will be reviewed upon return from the trek.

On Day 4, the team will go on board the Sea Spirit, and a safety briefing on the deck of the ship is scheduled after dinner. On Day 5-6, the team will cross Cape Horn, the most southerly point of the Americas that was circumnavigated by Sir Francis Drake in 1580. The Drake Passage will also be the time for a selection of multimedia lectures about Antarctica’s wildlife, geology, history and geography. The expedition team members will also receive International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO) guidelines for approaching wildlife, while discussions will begin on the importance of renewable energy and its vital role in the preservation of Antarctica. Day-6 will see the team nearing the tip of the Peninsula, with the ocean taking on a whole new perspective, surrounded by the surreal presence of floating ice sculptures.

Day 7-12 will begin with landing on the western coast of the Antarctic Peninsula. The team will cruise along spectacular ice shelves or following whales feeding near the surface. The distinct advantage of being on a small vessel will offer everyone an opportunity to experience these special close encounters with the environment. During the six days, the team will schedule visits, weather permitting, to several islands including the dome-shaped Cuverville Island that is home to approximately 40,000-strong large Gentoo rookeries (penguins).

Neko Harbor with its calving glaciers and statuesque icebergs will be one of the locations for a visit and a strong reminder of the goal of respecting and protecting the beautiful continent for future generations. Another possible location will be the Paradise Harbor, which offers breath-taking mountain reflections into clear, unspoiled waters and is surrounded by glaciers that dramatically calve into the sea. The team will also get an opportunity to sail through the extremely steep-sided Lemaire Channel with near vertical peaks on either side.

An overnight camping expedition on the Antarctic ice, subject to weather conditions, will enable team members to experience the Antarctic night.

Day 13 will see the IAE 2012 team reach King George Island, the largest of the South Shetland Islands of the Peninsula. It is also the location of the 2041 E-Base. They will enter the Drake Passage towards the end of the day. Day 14-15 will see the Sea Spirit sail back towards Argentina, with an on-board program wrap-up. They will disembark on Day 16 at Ushuaia in Argentina.

When Reem Al Junaibi and Maitha Al Kaabi will return home to the UAE, they will have learned how renewable energy sources work under extreme weather conditions in Antarctica, understood the process of temperature-induced salt precipitation and shared knowledge with the expedition team members, engendering international cooperation in order to solve global environmental issues.

Established in collaboration with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Masdar Institute integrates theory and practice to incubate a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship, working to develop the critical thinkers and leaders of tomorrow.  With its world-class faculty and top-tier students, the Institute is committed to finding solutions to the challenges of clean energy and climate change.
 

Experts Speak on ‘Human Capital Needs of Renewable and Advanced Energy Industry: Where do Opportunities Exist?’

Abu Dhabi-UAE: 19 January, 2012 – Masdar Institute of Science and Technology, an independent, research-driven graduate-level university focused on advanced energy and sustainable technologies, hosted a careers event on the sidelines of the World Future Energy Summit (WFES) 2012.

Organized under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, the WFES 2012 opened on 16 January at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre. The four-day event has gathered several heads of state, government leaders and professionals from clean energy industry to discuss, promote and debate the challenges and solutions to the world’s energy requirements.

Titled ‘Human Capital Needs of the Renewable and Advanced Energy Industry: Where do Opportunities Exist?’, the event on the Masdar Institute stand included a panel presentation and a networking reception for the participants. The event was compered by Shamma Al Jaberi, a Foundation Year student, and Kenan Jijakli, a second year Master’s student, from Masdar Institute.

High-profile speakers at the panel discussions included Morten Albaek, Group Senior Vice-President for Marketing & Customer Insights, in the wind turbine manufacturing company Vestas Wind Systems and Jay Witherspoon, Global Water Sustainability Director, Senior Fellow Odour Control & Biosolids Technologist, Vice-President, and International Technology Manager— Water & Energy Infrastructure Services at CH2MHill.

Dr Fred Moavenzadeh, President, Masdar Institute, said: ““Masdar Institute with a research-oriented academic program continues its contribution to the knowledge and human capital development in the UAE and the region. Out of the 71 students who graduated in the first batch, 14% per cent continue their doctoral studies at Masdar Institute, 7% continue in other universities while 51% have accepted employment offers. These statistics reiterate the advanced level of learning opportunities available at Masdar Institute that can launch an individual’s career in clean and renewable energy industry and sustainable technologies. We thank the country’s wise leadership for their vital support that continues to help Masdar Institute achieve bigger accomplishments.

“The need for human capital is an important factor for Abu Dhabi, the UAE and the region. Since, Abu Dhabi is driving economic diversification and the pillars also include advanced energy and sustainability to meet its renewable energy target, it will require a highly skilled work force in the field of science and engineering. Masdar Institute is contributing to this by training researchers in the areas of advanced energy and sustainable technologies – by doing so, it is also developing a culture of research and development and innovation that are the essential ingredients to sustainable economic development.”

In his presentation titled ‘Inspiring tomorrow’s leaders’, Morten Albaek said: “The energy industry has been traditionally dominated by two factors –profit and cause. However, the true solution to our global climate challenges comes in the sweet-spot between two paradigms – capitalism and humanism.

Stressing on the virtues of honesty and persistence, Albaek added: “More than 79% of the consumers would perceive a brand more positively if their prime energy source was wind and 50% of the world’s consumers are willing to pay extra for products made with renewables.”

Dr. Amy Wohlert, Executive Director, General Education and Student Affairs, said: “By engaging and networking at WFES with experts in clean energy and sustainable technologies, Masdar Institute student researchers will be able to see and hear first-hand about the trends and growth in this industry. As emerging future leaders in the field of environmental engineering, material sciences, mechanical and electrical engineering as well as computing information systems, Masdar Institute’s Master’s level graduates are ready to tackle the issues of climate change and energy security. They have gained the expertise to develop solutions through an interdisciplinary approach that requires real time research.”

Established in collaboration with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Masdar Institute integrates theory and practice to incubate a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship, working to develop the critical thinkers and leaders of tomorrow.  With its world-class faculty and top-tier students, the Institute is committed to finding solutions to the challenges of clean energy and climate change.
 

Workshop at Masdar Institute Campus Analyzes PV Industry Trends, Future Prospects and Relevance to Middle East

Abu Dhabi-UAE: 18 January, 2012– Masdar Institute of Science and Technology, an independent, research-driven graduate-level university focused on advanced energy and sustainable technologies, and First Solar, Inc., aleader in photovoltaic (PV) solar modules and a premier provider of comprehensive PV solar systems, highlighted the vital role of R&D in the fast evolving solar power industry at a special workshop.

Titled ‘Solar PV: Striving for Grid Parity – the Importance of R&D in a fast evolving industry’, the workshop led by James Brown, President, Global Business Development, First Solar, offered key insights into developments in the solar power industry. The session on ‘PV technology, System Optimization and the role of R&D’, was conducted by David Eaglesham, Chief Technology Officer, while the last session titled ‘Innovation in EPC and O&M’ was led by Matthew Merfert, EPC Director, First Solar.

Dr Steve Griffiths, Executive Director of Initiatives at Masdar Institute, gave the welcome address that was followed by a talk on ‘Emirates Solar Industry Association (ESIA) Introduction: Solar potential in the Middle East’ by Sami Khoreibi, CEO of Enviromena Power Systems, a leading developer of solar projects in the Middle East and North Africa region. More than 20 industry professionals, as well as faculty, researchers and students from Masdar Institute attended the workshop.

First Solar supplied its thin film solar modules for the Masdar City PV plant that was designed and constructed by Abu Dhabi-based Enviromena. First Solar will also be engaging with Masdar Institute on research regarding the economic potential of solar PV in the UAE.

Providing an introduction to First Solar and an overview of the solar power sector, James Brown indicated that the solar industry has witnessed tremendous growth globally in the past few years.  At the same time, the cost of solar PV has fallen dramatically. First Solar has chosen to focus on utility-scale PV generation in order to translate low PV costs, economies of scale and engineering know-how into the lowest electricity cost in order to make the largest global impact. 

The company expects to produce approximately 2GW in 2012 and is targeting reductions in its module manufacturing cost per Watt from US$0.74 in Q3 2011 to less than US$0.60 by 2015. First Solar has two priorities: continuing its investments in R&D, and bringing its utility-scale solar power plants to ‘sustainable markets,’ regions experiencing high energy growth with high, although not readily apparent, energy costs. Brown noted that “key sustainable markets are the Middle East, India and China.”

David Eaglesham, Chief Technology Officer, offered an overview on R&D, system optimization and the First Solar evaluation criteria for commercial viability. Dr. Eaglesham explained the thought process behind First Solar’s selection and focused R&D support of its cadmium telluride thin film technology.  Following the workshop, First Solar announced at WFES a record CdTe PV solar module efficiency of 14.4%. This achievement supports First Solar’s roadmap of achieving nearly 15% module efficiency by 2015.

Matthew Merfert elaborated on the innovations and facts about engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) as well as operation and maintenance (O&M) that are essential to competitiveness in the solar energy industry. First Solar has many innovations in the EPC space that allow utility-scale solar plants to be constructed in a fraction of the time that it takes to construct traditional power generation facilities.

In his address, Dr Steve Griffiths said: “R&D is essential to driving forward the large-scale, unsubsidized deployment of solar energy. R&D is the basis for generating inventions that become innovations that diffuse into the market. True mass adoption of solar technology will likely come from an innovation that has not yet achieved the level of market diffusion that we seek.

“The region is undergoing a transformation from competition based on comparative advantage in hydrocarbon resources to competitive advantage in knowledge-based industries. R&D is foundational to this transformation, particularly with regard to industries such as solar that are part of many regional energy and industrial development roadmaps.”

Established in collaboration with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Masdar Institute integrates theory and practice to incubate a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship, working to develop the critical thinkers and leaders of tomorrow.  With its world-class faculty and top-tier students, the Institute is committed to finding solutions to the challenges of clean energy and climate change.
 

Dr Toufic Mezher Participates in Workshop on ‘Innovation and Technology: The use of Renewable Energy Scenarios for Decision’

Abu Dhabi-UAE: 17 January, 2011 – Knowledge management in renewable energy is essential especially for creating, capturing, and delivering the knowledge.  Therefore, there is a need to develop a common ontology for the renewable energy sector and develop knowledge mapping for all the existing information, according to Dr Toufic Mezher, Professor in Engineering System and Management, at Masdar Institute of Science and Technology.

Dr Toufic Mezher was participating in the session titled ‘Innovation and Technology: The use of Renewable Energy Scenarios for Decision’ at the World Future Energy Summit (WFES) 2012 that opened on 16 January at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Center (ADENC). The summit is organized under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces.

Elaborating on the relevance of renewable energy knowledge to the region, Dr Toufic Mezher said: “Having access to energy knowledge is very important to all stakeholders in order to understand what is going on in terms of knowledge creation and capturing. This is relevant because stakeholders from this region can access needed for renewable energy knowledge and can share their own knowledge with others from around the globe.”

An independent, research-driven graduate-level university focused on advanced energy and sustainable technologies, Masdar Institute plays a vital role in the development of innovation in clean and renewable energy.

Talking about removing the barriers to energy access, Christine Eibs Singer, E+Co Co-Founder and CEO and Founding Member of the Aspen Network of Development Entrepreneurs, said that the year 2012 will be the UN Year of Global Energy Access.

Singer pointed out that while access is an issue on which there are many initiatives but progress has been slow in parts of the world, others have virtually eliminated the problem. Various types or renewable solutions can help to solve access problems, but their development and application is fragmented, Eibs Singer observed and added that all too often development efforts do not reach the energy poor or efforts do not have sufficient critical mass to sustain a transition.

Established in collaboration with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Masdar Institute integrates theory and practice to incubate a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship, working to develop the critical thinkers and leaders of tomorrow.  With its world-class faculty and top-tier students, the Institute is committed to finding solutions to the challenges of clean energy and climate change.
 

Students to Spend Two Weeks in Japan to Learn about Toyota’s Efforts to Develop Cutting-edge Low-Carbon Emission Vehicle Technologies

Abu Dhabi-UAE: January 16, 2012 –The Masdar Institute of Science and Technology, an independent, research-driven graduate-level university focused on advanced energy and sustainable technologies, and Toyota Motor Corporation, the world’s leading automotive manufacturer today signed a deal to set up Masdar Institute-Toyota Scholarship Program for conducting research on the advancement of low-carbon emission vehicle technologies.

According to the agreement, Toyota, winner of the Zayed Future Energy Prize in 2010, will use the US$1.5 million prize fund to establish a scholarship program for 10 students. One student will be selected for each academic year and the scholarship includes a two-week trip to Japan.
The annual scholarships will be offered to highly-qualified graduate students from around the world to work on projects in the area of technologies for sustainable development.
On behalf of each party, Nobuyuki Negishi, Chief Representative, The Middle East & North Africa Representative Office, Toyota Motor Corporation, and Dr. Fred Moavenzadeh, President of Masdar Institute of Science and Technology attended a signing ceremony at the Masdar Institute stand at the World Future Energy Summit 2012 in Abu Dhabi today. The agreement was signed in the presence of Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, Chief Executive Officer of Masdar, Chairman of the Executive Committee of the Board of Trustees of Masdar Institute, and Director-General of the Zayed Future Energy Prize.

Makoto Kitamura, Grand Master of Toyota’s Middle East & North Africa Representative office, and Eigo Yamamoto, Sales & Marketing Manager, Toyota, were also present at the ceremony, in addition to Dr Steve Griffiths, Executive Director, Institute Initiatives, and Dr Youssef Shatilla, Professor and Associate Dean for Academic Affairs, Masdar Institute.

Organized under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, WFES 2012 opened on 16 January at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre. The world’s most influential leaders in renewable energy, including heads of state, policy makers, government officials, business leaders, and academics, have convened in Abu Dhabi, the emerging global hub for renewable energy, to discuss, promote and debate the challenges and solutions of the world’s energy requirements.

Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, Director-General of the Zayed Future Energy Prize, said: “This substantive partnership between Toyota Motor Corporation and the Masdar Institute sits at the heart of what the Zayed Future Energy Prize has set to achieve. In merely two years, the Prize has taken its rightful place as a catalyst for expediting innovation around the world.
“The scholarships funded by Toyota will serve to ensure that these scholars will benefit from a rich, academic, research-driven environment where they will be able to pursue the development of cutting-edge technologies.”
Talented students selected to receive Masdar Institute-Toyota Scholarship will write their final Master’s degree thesis on a sustainable mobility topic such as product development or technology strategy. Each student with the scholarship will have a supervisor at Masdar Institute who will closely monitor and support the student’s studies and Master’s thesis work.

In addition, each student will spend two weeks at Toyota Motor Corporation and other sites in Japan, learning about the company’s efforts to develop cutting-edge low emission vehicle technologies and also Japanese industries’ efforts in realizing simultaneously economic growth and environmental preservation.

Nobuyuki Negishi said: “Toyota recognizes the importance of global sustainability and implements several programs across various platforms to engage with the community. Masdar Institute is one of the leading research-oriented academic institutions that constantly engage with the youth to develop and implement clean energy technologies. We are honored to establish this scholarship program at Masdar Institute that will create the right environment for students to conduct their research and achieve breakthrough in bringing new energy technologies for everyday use.”
Dr. Fred Moavenzadeh said: “The establishment of Masdar Institute-Toyota Scholarship Program takes us another step forward in facilitating research in key sustainable technology areas that remain one of the cornerstones of our academic activities. Signing the deal with a global automobile leader such as Toyota further strengthens our status as a world-class institution that aims to nurture students and develop them into capable energy leaders of tomorrow. We are delighted to enter into this arrangement that will contribute to the advancement of low-carbon emission vehicle technologies.”
Masdar Institute-Toyota Scholarship Program and its benefits are subject to the student maintaining a minimum CGPA (Cumulative Grade Point Average) as determined by Masdar Institute and satisfactory progress on their research. The scholarship will be offered to talented students qualified to meet Masdar Institute’s admission standards which include appropriate TOEFL score, GRE and an excellent CGPA from a recognized university.

Students will divide their time between class work and research in one of Masdar Institute’s Master of Science (MSc) programs including Electrical Power Engineering, Engineering Systems and Management, Computing and Information Science, Materials Science and Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Microsystems Engineering and Water and Environmental Engineering.

The Zayed Future Energy Prize, managed by Masdar, seeks to identify, recognize and reward innovation, leadership, long-term vision and impact on renewable energy and sustainability. It seeks to encourage the many solutions and technologies, which are helping to create a new, sustainable energy future that could change the world.

Located at the heart of the home-grown research and development community at Masdar City, Masdar Institute is an independent, research-driven graduate-level university focused on advanced energy and sustainable technologies. It already has existing arrangements with leading global corporations for conducting research in renewable energy and sustainable technology areas.
 

Projects to Cover Areas Including Transparent Conductive Oxide, Modeling and Light Management

Abu Dhabi-UAE: 18 January, 2011 – Masdar Institute of Science and Technology, an independent, research-driven graduate-level university focused on advanced energy and sustainable technologies, today announced it has signed a strategic master research partnership agreement with Masdar PV GmbH, leading German-based manufacturer of photovoltaic films.

The agreement was signed at the Masdar Institute stand during the Word Future Energy Summit 2012 by Dr Fred Moavenzadeh, President of Masdar Institute, and Ho Ty Trinh, CEO of Masdar PV. Dr Steve Griffith, Executive Director of Institute Initiatives, was present on the occasion.

Organized under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, WFES 2012 opened on 16 January at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre. The world’s most influential leaders in renewable energy, including heads of state, policy makers, government officials, business leaders, and academics, have convened in Abu Dhabi, the emerging global hub for renewable energy, to discuss, promote and debate the challenges and solutions of the world’s energy requirements.

The agreement establishes a collaboration with Masdar PV in research related to silicon thin film photovoltaic technologies. The collaboration will be initiated with three individual research projects on transparent conductive oxide (TCO) glass layer optimization, photovoltaic device simulation and light management optimization. Dr Harald Bloess, Head of Engineering, Technology and Transfer, will be the Project Head at Masdar PV, while Dr. Steven Griffiths, Executive Director, Office of Institute Initiatives, and Professor of Practice, Chemical Engineering, will be Project Head at Masdar Institute.

Under the terms of first three individual project agreements, Sven Kittelmann, Senior Engineer-Projects, Masdar PV, and Adel Gougam, Assistant Professor, Masdar Institute, will handle the ‘TCO Glass Layers Optimization’ project, while Dr. Jens-Hendrik Zollondz, Manager R&D and Metrology, from Masdar PV, and Dr. Ammar Nayfeh, Assistant Professor, from Masdar Institute, will be responsible for the Photovoltaic Device Simulation project. Andreas Heidelberg, Manager – Process Integration, Masdar PV, Marcus Dahlem, Assistant Professor, from Masdar Institute, Jaime Viegas, Assistant Professor, from Masdar Institute, and Marco Stefancich, Assistant Professor, from Masdar Institute, will coordinate for the ‘Light Management Optimization / Trapping project.

The Photovoltaic Device Simulation research project to be conducted by Dr. Hendrik Zollondz and Dr. Ammar Nayfeh will focus on improving the efficiency of ‘Micromorph Tandem’ solar cellsusing Technology Computer Aided Design (TCAD) simulation. The TCO Glass Layers Optimization project aims to optimize the front TCO structure used in a super-state configuration for the Si thin film modules manufactured by Masdar PV. The Light Management Optimization / Trapping project by Dr. Andreas Heidelberg, Dr. Tim Frijnts, Dr. Marcus Dahlem, Dr. Jaime Viegas and Dr. Marco Stefancich aims to improve solar cell efficiencies through reduction of top cell reflectance, light trapping schemes and wavelength-selective intermediate reflectors for tandem cells.

Dr Fred Moavenzadeh said: “This research will not only help Masdar PV in achieving its technology roadmap objectives, but also will establish a close collaboration between Masdar Institute and Masdar PV in an area of great regional and global importance. Research into alternative energy sources, particularly solar energy, is of vital interest to Masdar and Abu Dhabi and we believe the know-how transfer from this agreement with Masdar PV will be mutually beneficial.”

Ho Ty Trinh said: “We are delighted to enter into this research agreement with Masdar Institute. We believe the faculty at the research-driven academic institution can be instrumental in helping Masdar PV achieve its technology roadmap. We are confident their expertise will complement those possessed by the Masdar PV team.”

Established in collaboration with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Masdar Institute integrates theory and practice to incubate a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship, working to develop the critical thinkers and leaders of tomorrow.  With its world-class faculty and top-tier students, the Institute is committed to finding solutions to the challenges of clean energy and climate change.
 

Executive Committee Comprises Members from UAEU, Zayed University, Khalifa University, Masdar Institute and AUS

Abu Dhabi-UAE: 11 January, 2012 – The University Leadership Council (ULC) was launched in the UAE today under the patronage of His Excellency Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, UAE Minister for Higher Education and Scientific Research.

The new organization will provide a platform for thought leadership and offer actionable recommendations to deepen collaboration and advance regionally relevant research and innovation.

The Executive Committee of the University Leadership Council consists of representatives from five leading UAE universities. They include Dr. Tod Laursen, President of Khalifa University, Dr. Larry Wilson, Provost of Zayed University (ZU), Dr. Peter Heath, Chancellor of American University of Sharjah (AUS), Dr. Rory Hume, Provost of the United Arab Emirates University (UAEU), and Dr. Fred Moavenzadeh, President of Masdar Institute of Science and Technology, an independent, research-driven graduate-level university focused on advanced energy and sustainable technologies.

The five leading universities who are members of the University Leadership Council, in collaboration with the nation’s top academic institutions, will generate creative ideas and foster common interests for spearheading innovation and technology transfer in the region under the new organization.

More UAE-based universities are expected to become members of the University Leadership Council (ULC). A logo of the new Council was later unveiled.

To fulfill the prime responsibility towards the community, the academic leaders will drive the onset of new concepts especially through research and sow the seeds of profound change in the mindsets of students and build a foundation for the advent of scientific advancements under the new initiative. By coming together and initiate collaborative efforts, the academic leaders will help advance the nation’s socio-economic development and expand the knowledge base within the UAE and indeed the region more broadly.

The Council has a clear mandate to interface with industry and government to bring about a clearer understanding of the goals and mission of research-based universities and to work collaboratively towards common goals such as promoting a culture of research and innovation (R&I), advancing the educational goals of the UAE-based universities and alignment of policy with the government with regard to meeting the requirements of the industry and the economy.

The University Leadership Council will focus on higher education issues and needs, foster synergy through complementary and cooperative research and academic activities, as well as act as a link for faculty and students to interface with both the public and private sectors. It will also seek financial support from industry, government, and private individuals for relevant academic and research activities within member institutions. Ultimately, the ULC serves to promote the overall economic development of the country by broadening the base of knowledge and sharing technology across multiple stakeholders.

As a part of this strategy, the Executive Committee has scheduled an upcoming workshop titled ‘Government, Industry and Academic Partnership to Promote Science and Technology in Abu Dhabi’. It will aim to gather influential members from the government, industry and academia.

Dr. Tod Laursen said: “Khalifa University is an academic institution with a very clear mission to establish an internationally recognized center of higher education and provide regionally relevant research and innovation. We are pleased to support this initiative and collaborate with other research-driven institutions in the UAE. The Council’s mandate aligns very well with our mission to expand the knowledge economy and with our collective desire to highlight the critical role that UAE-based institutions have in making this economic transformation a reality.”

Dr. Larry Wilson said: “Zayed University aims to prepare today’s students to be capable leaders of tomorrow to provide the knowledge and skillsets required to secure the country’s long-term social and economic progress. We will support any collaboration effort that supports human development and we believe the establishment University Leadership Council is a step in the right direction that will ensure the country’s continued development.”

Dr. Peter Heath said: “Rooted in Arab culture, the American University of Sharjah is part of a larger concept of revitalizing intellectual life in the Middle East. We believe the University Leadership Council will play a crucial role once again in bringing the Arab world back to its pioneering status in education and knowledge and we are ready to contribute to this key initiative in the UAE.”

Dr. Rory Hume said: “As a world-class center for applied research, national and international outreach, innovation and outcome-based learning, the United Arab Emirates University strongly believes in collaborative efforts on knowledge sharing. The University Leadership Council aims to focus on research and innovation through collective measures that will help develop human capital and we are keen to extend our cooperation to the new organization to achieve its objectives.”

Dr. Fred Moavenzadeh said: “With the influx of newly established graduate research-based universities, the formation of a University Leadership Council has become vitally important. Education holds the key to social and economic progress and it is the responsibility of the academic institutions in the UAE to effectively inform and educate its graduates so that they become the leaders of tomorrow and transform the UAE into a knowledge-based economy.”
 

Masdar Institute Faculty to Join Industry Experts and Stakeholders in Leading Knowledge Sharing Sessions on Clean Energy and Advanced Technologies

Abu Dhabi-UAE: 11 January, 2012 – The EU-GCC Clean Energy Network, which aims to advance the common interest between the EU and the GCC regions for strategic cooperation, today announced it will host its second annual conference concurrently with the World Future Energy Summit (WFES) 2012 in Abu Dhabi.

Organized under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, WFES 2012 will be held from 16-19 January 2012 at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC). Co-organised by the National Technical University of Athens (NTUA) and Masdar Institute of Science and Technology, the EU-GCC Clean Energy Network’s annual conference will be hosted at the same venue from 17-19 January.

The key focus areas for the 4th Discussion Group (DG) meetings during the conference will include carbon capture and storage, clean natural gas and related technologies, renewable energy sources, as well as electricity interconnections and market integration. The conference will also provide an opportunity for distinguished clean energy experts, including representatives from the European Commission and the GCC authorities to exchange views on the potential ways to support and enhance the long-term strategic clean energy relationship between the EU and the GCC regions.

In addition to attending the conference, officials from the member institutions will have the opportunity to network with key clean energy technology providers at the WFES 2012 Exhibition.

Renowned members of Masdar Institute faculty will play a leading role during the conference. Dr. Sgouris Sgouridis Assistant Professor – Engineering Systems and Management, Masdar Institute, will lead the ‘Third Sustainable Biofuels Workshop: Middle East Perspective’. The workshop will feature leaders in biofuel development and adoption active in the Middle East from the industry including Boeing Company, Etihad Airways, Qatar Airways, and Neutral Fuels, research institutions including Masdar Institute, Qatar University, Lausanne Federal Polytechnic University, and the International Energy Agency and leaders in certification. These stakeholders will discuss the latest progress in feedstock development, usage pathways, and sustainability certification.

Dr Nikolaos Koukouzas, Deputy Director of Centre for Research and Technology Hellas/ Institute for Solid Fuels Technology and Applications (CERTH/ISFTA), Greece, and Dr Othman Zarzour, Project Manager, Masdar, will be conveners of the meeting on carbon capture and storage. Dr Rabia Ferroukhi, Energy Technology Expert, EU-GCC Clean Energy Network, Dr Manuel J. Blanco, Director, Solar Thermal Energy Department, National Renewable Energy Centre (CENER) of Spain, and Dr. Carsten Hoyer-Klick, Project Manager, German Aerospace Center, DLR, Germany, will be the conveners of the meeting on ‘Renewable Energy Sources’.

The DG meetings will wind up the first day with the session on ‘Clean Natural Gas and Related Technologies’ for which the conveners will include Prof. Mohsen Assadi, Managing Director, Centre for Sustainable Energy Solutions, Stavanger, Norway, and Dr Naji Abi-Aad, Research Advisor, Ministry of Energy/Qatar Petroleum, Qatar.

On the second day, the first of the DG meeting on ‘Energy Efficiency/Demand Side Management’ will be convened by Dr Alexandra Papadopoulou, Senior Expert, Energy Policy Unit, National Technical University of Athens, Greece and Dr Nawal Al Hosany, Associate Director of Sustainability at Masdar, while the meeting on ‘Electricity Interconnections And Market Integration’ will have Dr Najib Dandachi, Asset Management Director, Transco, Abu Dhabi Water & Electricity Authority, UAE, and John Traynor, Senior Consultant on Electricity Integration, ESB International, Dublin, Ireland, as conveners.

The second plenary meeting on ‘Network Sustainability’ is also scheduled for the second day. On the final day, Prof. Taha B.M.J. from Water and Environmental Engineering program and Dr. Isam Janajreh, Associate Professor in Mechanical Engineering, Masdar Institute, will lead a training seminar on ‘Wind Resource Assessment’, while Dr. Carsten Hoyer Klick, will present the session on ‘Solar resource assessment’.

Dr Manuel J. Blanco will conduct the seminar on ‘Concentrated solar thermal power plant’, while Dr. Mohammad Abu Zahra, Assistant Professor, Chemical Engineering Program, Masdar Institute, will deliver training on ‘Carbon capture and storage’ (CCS) which will cover CO2 capture, transport and storage technology overviews and challenges.  The training will end with a group discussion on the viability of CCS in the region.

Hamza Kazim, Vice-President, Operations and Finance, Masdar Institute, said: “Being a research-driven academic institution, Masdar Institute will join the NTUA to remain focused on all avenues that encourage knowledge sharing and information exchange. The EU-GCC Clean Energy Network acts as a consortium that seeks to create, operate, promote and disseminate information and proposals and sustainable strategies. During the Second Annual Conference of the EU-GCC Clean Energy Network, Masdar Institute faculty will play a definitive role with other stakeholders in interacting and engaging with clean energy leaders to further expand knowledge building in sustainable energy and advanced technologies.”

In addition to Masdar Institute, the other GCC counterpart organizations in the Network are King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST), Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR), Qatar Environment and Energy Research Institute, Sultan Qaboos University of Oman and Arabian Gulf University. The Network’s operations are supported by numerous organisations in both the regions.

Established in collaboration with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Masdar Institute integrates theory and practice to incubate a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship, working to develop the critical thinkers and leaders of tomorrow.  With its world-class faculty and top-tier students, the Institute is committed to finding solutions to the challenges of clean energy and climate change.
 

 Polar Explorer Sir Robert Swan, Energy Industry Leaders and 13-Year Old Solar Pioneer Aidan Dwyer to Interact with YFEL Members

Abu Dhabi-UAE: 9 January, 2012 – Masdar Institute of Science of Technology, an independent, research-driven graduate-level university focused on advanced energy and sustainable technologies, today announced it has lined up a packed calendar of events for its outreach initiative the Young Future Energy Leaders (YFEL) program during the World Future Energy Summit (WFES) 2012.

Organized under the patronage of His Highness General Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, and hosted by Masdar, Abu Dhabi’s multi-faceted renewable energy company, the fifth edition of WFES will be held from 16-19 January at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC). The event will gather the world’s most influential leaders in renewable energy, including heads of state, policy makers, government officials, business leaders, and academics to discuss, promote and debate challenges and solutions to the world’s energy requirements.

This year, over 150 YFEL members, representing students from UAE universities, international universities, as well as young professionals from local companies will be attending specialized forums, seminars, debates and panels at WFES 2012. The members for 2012 were selected out of 400 applicants, after a stringent vetting process that ensured only the most eligible candidates are chosen for the exclusive YFEL program.

In addition to the Emirati philanthropist, Mohammed Salem Bin Kardous Al-Ameri, who supported the YFEL 2011 program with its first individual financial contribution, corporate sponsors in 2011 included Emirates Nuclear Energy Corporation (ENEC), Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC), Abu Dhabi Water and Electricity Authority (ADWEA) and Dolphin Energy.

A key element of WFES, the YFEL program that aims to develop tomorrow’s leaders in the fields of advanced energy and sustainability, will provide opportunities for YFEL members to share their innovative ideas with their peers as well as industry, government and academic leaders.

During WFES 2012, the YFEL stand will host various programs in addition to receiving dignitaries and environmentalist including polar explorer Sir Robert Swan, energy industry leaders and Aidan Dwyer, a 13-year old scientist who has achieved breakthrough in solar power and one of 12 students to receive the 2011 Young Naturalist Award from the American Museum of Natural History in New York.

Some of the events that will be organized by Masdar Institute at the YFEL stand include a presentation by Mohamed El-Ashry, Chairman, Renewable Energy Policy Network for the 21st Century (REN 21), and Senior Fellow, UN Foundation, a debate on ‘The World-Wide Increase in Population Needs to be Reversed’ by Dr. Ken Volk, Outreach Manager, Masdar Institute, and a presentation by YFEL 2011 members Haljmar Nilsonne and David Rasmus Davidsen, who were the winners of a case competition for their project that was to develop a model for calculating the carbon costs of running a conference with WFES.

Moreover, another winning project – Black Silicon Solar Cells – by the two talented YFEL participants, focused on a method Davidsen developed and showcased during the YFEL program at WFES 2011. The innovative clean-tech method applies nanostructures to improve the efficiency of solar photovoltaic cells, allowing manufacturers – through only one extra manufacturing step — to significantly reduce the unwanted reflection of sunlight.

Davidsen and Nilsonne proudly acknowledged the role of YFEL in connecting the two young innovators. Nilsonne said, “Because of this award, I have been interviewed for a couple of different things, and I always begin by telling the story of how we met thanks to YFEL and Masdar Institute.”

In addition, the first day’s schedule will also include a sightseeing tour to Shaikh Zayed mosque and Ferrari World that will be led by YFEL 2011 members Cica Al Attas and Burhan Buçi.

Many other high-profile industry leaders and delegates are also scheduled to visit the YFEL stand at WFES 2012 and interact with select members.

The second day’s events will begin with a briefing on the YFEL 2012 project that will be followed by select members attending the plenary session ‘Business Leaders in Renewable Energy – Insights from the Executive Suite’. The rest of the events at the YFEL stand will include sessions by Bjørn Lomborg, renowned writer on environment, and Director of Copenhagen Consensus Center, Sir Robert Swan, Aidan Dwyer, and a session by Dr Steve Griffiths, Executive Director of Initiatives at Masdar Institute. These events are open only to select YFEL members who are meticulously chosen based on their individual professional skills and leadership qualities.

Later in the evening, YFEL members will participate in the Zayed Future Energy Prize Award Ceremony and Gala Dinner at the Emirates Palace Hotel.

The Directorate of Energy and Climate Change (DECC) from the UAE Foreign Ministry will host a panel discussion on ‘Women Leading the Way in Clean Energy and Climate Change’ at the YFEL stand on the third day. A presentation titled Direct Production of Hydrogen in the Sulfur Recovery Process of Sour Gases by an YFEL member Iman Ustadi is also scheduled for the day. Members will later attend the program on ‘Energy Storage – Technical challenges: Market opportunities’.
Following the panel discussion on ‘Finance Leaders in Future Energy – Insights from the Financiers’ at the start of the fourth day, YFEL members will receive Morten Albaek, Senior Vice-President, Group Marketing and Customer Insight, from the Danish wind energy firm Vestas, at the YFEL stand for an opening speech about future energy visionaries and innovations. Later, Saif Al Sayari, Vice-President for Operations Technology & Innovations at Abu Dhabi National Energy Company, UAE, will address the YFEL gathering.

Prior to WFES 2012, YFEL orientation gathering is scheduled on 15 January at Rotana Hotel in Yas Island to update the members on their individual roles at the event.

Dr. Lamya N. Fawwaz, Executive Director of Public Affairs, said: “The YFEL program offers an avenue for students and young professionals to enrich themselves for career-related growth. As an integral element of WFES, YFEL creates vital learning opportunities for its members. The dialogues and networking possibilities will facilitate long-term interactions, widening their ability to understand the global culture in research and innovation in the fields of clean energy, sustainability and environment. Active participation in WFES will significantly enhance YFEL members’ skill-base, networking opportunities and provide a platform to innovate and compete with their peers overseas. We thank the wise UAE leadership for creating such effective international platforms that benefit our future leaders.”

Zainab Al Ali, Senior Outreach Officer and Program Coordinator for YFEL, said: “Our presence in WFES is a strong acknowledgement of the need to develop young professionals and broaden their capabilities. This year the YFEL comprises members representing diverse professional backgrounds, academic disciplines and geographies. Our holistic program offering for the year commences with the events at WFES and we believe YFEL members will utilize this opportunity to develop into valuable contributors to the clean energy and sustainable technology sector.”

Part of the Masdar Institute’s Outreach program, YFEL offers young professionals and students from the UAE and abroad an opportunity to become more engaged in finding solutions to the world’s biggest challenges – achieving energy efficiency and tackling climate change. It also aims to bring young professionals closer to government representatives, business leaders and other organizations active in the area of alternative energy and sustainability.