Clean Energy is a vast and nebulous topic. My own research is concerned with transport solutions, though I am also knowledgeable in the problems associated with stationary clean energy production and the clean energy conundrum at large. In September 2009 I won, with a joint entry (from myself and a colleague), the UBC Alternative Energy X Contest. Our proposal uses a combined heat and power co-generation plant fed by biomass gasification, with geothermal and small-scale hydro support coupled with smart grid demand management to meet the predicted future heating and energy demand of a growing UBC campus. As a result of this win I now sit on the UBC Alternative Energy Committee.
My PhD work has lead me to look at the technical problems associated with using natural gas as a replacement for gasoline and diesel in medium-duty (bus and truck) engines. I employ laser diagnostics to look inside a simplified replica of an engine, and analyse the fuel mixing and combustion processes. Using the patented technology of partially stratified combustion I investigate the applicability of lean burn engines to more efficient, less polluting transport solutions. I collaborate closely with Westport Innovations who have a significant stake in the technology because of the clear symbiosis with their own gases injection solutions.
How is natural gas considered clean, it’s a fossil fuel? Natural gas is over 90% methane which emits up to 1/3 less CO2 upon combustion than conventional fuels. Yes, it still emits CO2 and is still a fossil fuel; yet for transport a better solution (in the form of hydrogen fuel cells, electric cars or hybrid electrics) is still a long way from commercialization. As a result, an intermediate technology needs to be sought. Natural gas is still abundant (about twice the proven reserves of oil) and I am helping develop the technology which will ensure it is cleaner and more efficient than current solutions. This will allow us to move towards the long-range solutions needed for clean efficient transport. For more of my thoughts about the energy conundrum see my opinion page.