The ZERO Institute has launched its first professional development course, created for engineers and technical specialists designing and optimising electricity grids.
The 2-day course, entitled Engineering Smart Electricity Grids: Design, AI, Optimisation & Cybersecurity explores the latest research into how electricity networks can be designed, analysed and operated to meet the demands of the global energy transition.
Taking place at the ZERO Institute at Oxford University on 18th – 19th March 2027, the course will combine cutting-edge research with practical engineering tools, covering topics including grid design, distributed renewable generation, microgrids, artificial intelligence, optimisation and cybersecurity.
As established electricity systems decarbonise, grids are having to accommodate rapidly growing renewable generation alongside new sources of demand such as electric vehicles and heat pumps. At the same time, emerging economies have opportunities to develop new approaches to electrification, including microgrids. The course will equip participants with practical knowledge and tools to tackle these challenges and help plan and operate the electricity networks of the future.
Director of the ZERO Institute, Professor Paul Shearing, said:
“Launching our first Professional Learning course marks an important expansion of the ZERO Institute’s education and training activities, and it’s a fantastic opportunity to share Oxford’s interdisciplinary knowledge and research with professionals working directly on the energy transition.”
Teaching will be led by Professor David Wallom, Professor of Informatics and Course Director of Oxford’s MSc in Energy Systems, and Dr Scot Wheeler, Senior Researcher and Departmental Lecturer in Energy Systems. Participants will work with Python-based modelling tools and explore applications including deep-learning energy forecasting, AI-assisted control of distributed energy assets and the security implications of smart energy devices.
The course is designed for engineers and technical professionals working in or alongside the energy sector, including those working in power systems, grid planning, renewable energy, utilities, energy technology, data, digitalisation and cybersecurity. It will also provide an opportunity to exchange knowledge and perspectives with fellow professionals from across the sector.
The course costs £1,500, with an early-bird rate of £1,350 available until the 30th November 2026. The fee includes teaching and course materials, a networking dinner at a University of Oxford college, and a course completion certificate.
Click the link to find out more and book your place on the Engineering Smart Electricity Grids course.
