Nigerian Researcher Wins Research Award for Advancing Electric Grid Modelling

By Yinka Olatunbosun

Samuel Okhuegbe, a Nigerian researcher at the Bredesen Center for Interdisciplinary Research and Graduate Education, has been honored with the Third Best Paper Award at the 2024 IEEE Texas Power and Energy Conference (TPEC) held in Texas, USA.

He received this recognition for his innovative work applying artificial intelligence to enhance electric power grid modeling.
The IEEE TPEC is a highly regarded international conference, drawing researchers from around the world. It is technically sponsored by the IEEE Power and Energy Society, the IEEE Power Electronics Society, and the IEEE Industry Applications Society.

Out of more than 120 peer-reviewed papers presented, Samuel’s research stood out, earning him the prestigious award for his paper titled “A Machine Learning Initializer for Newton-Raphson AC Power Flow Convergence.”

His work introduces a novel machine learning-based method to improve the convergence of AC power flow algorithms, particularly in scenarios where traditional models fail. This approach has significant implications for power system planning, as it reduces the time and effort required to develop accurate and realistic electric grid models. These models are essential for analysing grid behavior under various operating conditions, ultimately supporting efforts to maintain grid reliability and resilience.

Okhuegbe’s academic and research journey is both impressive and inspiring. He was recognised as the Best Engineering Graduate among all federal universities in Nigeria during the 2014/2015 academic session, an honor awarded by the Committee of Deans of Engineering and Technology (CODET) in collaboration with the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC).

In 2017, he was also awarded the Pan African University Scholarship by the African Union.
Samuel’s achievements reflect his unwavering dedication to research excellence.

Through his contributions, he not only advances the field of electric power systems but also inspires the next generation of Nigerian researchers to pursue impactful and globally recognised work.