Description:

The research incubator is focused on determining the potential of alternative energy sources available in Colombia, with an emphasis on biomass, hydrogen, wind, and solar energy. In addition, it explores the use of alternative generation systems to partially or fully meet energy demands in sustainable applications. The aim is to employ computational tools that enable the simulation of processes for the utilization of these energy resources.

Objective

1. Characterize the energy potential of alternative sources in different regions of Colombia, with an emphasis on rural or non-interconnected areas.
2. Develop simulation models using specialized software (such as MATLAB/Simulink, HOMER, Aspen, or PVsyst) to analyze conversion processes and the utilization of biomass, hydrogen, solar, and wind energy.
3. Design proposals for hybrid energy systems that integrate two or more renewable sources to fully or partially meet specific energy demands (e.g., rural housing, agricultural irrigation, or educational institutions).
4. Evaluate the technical and environmental feasibility of these solutions using criteria such as efficiency, emission reduction, energy autonomy, and local resource utilization.
5. Promote the development of research skills and collaborative work among students through project formulation, participation in calls for proposals, academic events, and publications.
6. Establish partnerships with academic, governmental, or private institutions to strengthen the applied focus of the research group and validate prototypes or energy solutions.

Research lines or active projects:

1. Biomass
2. Wind energy
3. Photovoltaic solar energy
4. Distributed generation
5. Hydrogen technologies
6. Electric vehicles
7. Energy storage
8. Energy communities
9. Modeling and simulation
10. Machine learning and data analysis for energy systems