A graduate of University of Strathclyde, our Research & Development Lead Ryan Sims, tells us about his time working in The Gambia, The Philippines and the USA prior to his role here at PNDC.

Tell us about your role at the PNDC.

I am the R&D lead for PNDC work on zero emission transport and low voltage networks. My day-to-day includes working with PNDC’s members on the common challenges our industry faces and delivering projects that inform how to operate a future power system with more electric vehicles and high penetrations of distributed energy.

My team works in close collaboration with UK DNOs, including SPEN, SSEN and UKPN, and a large community of innovative technology companies. Currently, we are working on a project helping local authorities and DNOs collaboratively plan for optimal location of rapid electric vehicles charging stations, looking across electrical network impacts and the best locations for user convenience and encouraging EV adoption.

We also just kicked off a project with our members in the LV networks theme, looking at future non-traditional data sources to assist with the challenge of LV monitoring.

How long have you been working here?

I joined the PNDC in May 2019.

What was your background before joining the PNDC?

I graduated from the University of Strathclyde with a masters in electrical and mechanical engineering in 2010. I then spent 10 years working at Smarter Grid Solutions on the design and development of active network management control systems, helping to deliver some of the first flexible connections in the UK and North American markets. I have also spent time working on community based renewable energy systems and micro-grid development in The Gambia and The Philippines.

What do you enjoy most about working at the PNDC?

The PNDC team really is the friendliest and most supportive you could ask for. It’s a large contributor to why it is such a great place to research, test and demonstrate innovative ideas. I enjoy working closely with our members and all the innovative companies that come through the centre. Their insights and market knowledge are a great resource for our work.

What can we find you doing in your spare time?

I enjoy long walks on the beach at sunset.