Under the theme “Researching the Requirements of Industrial Application,” the Department of Electrical Engineering at the College of Engineering, University of Baghdad, organized an international scientific symposium entitled “Industrial Application of Photovoltaic Energy Storage Integrated with Smart Microgrids.” The symposium was held within the framework of the Iraqi–Chinese joint scientific cooperation project between the University of Baghdad and Wuhan University, with the participation of a distinguished group of academics and experts from Iraq and China.
The symposium was attended by the Dean of the College of Engineering, Professor Dr. Ghassan Hamid Abdul Majeed, and the Assistant President of the University of Baghdad for Scientific Affairs, Professor Dr. Suhail Najm Abdullah, along with an academic delegation from Wuhan University and a number of professors and researchers specializing in energy and artificial intelligence.
The symposium aimed to strengthen scientific and academic cooperation and to support research partnerships in the fields of renewable energy and smart grids, with a focus on practical aspects and on linking scientific research to the needs of the industrial and service sectors.
The opening session began with the playing of the Iraqi national anthem, followed by a performance of the Chinese heritage piece “Molihua,” presented by student Mohammed Majid from the Department of Electrical Engineering, reflecting the depth of cultural and academic ties between the two countries.
In his opening address, the Assistant President of the University for Scientific Affairs emphasized the importance of Iraqi–Chinese academic cooperation in supporting sustainable development. In turn, the Dean of the College of Engineering highlighted the role of the Iraqi Industrial Applications Center in strengthening and institutionalizing applied research partnerships.
The symposium featured a range of scientific and research contributions addressing multiple themes. Professor Dong Shuzuo from Wuhan University presented China’s experience in smart grids and the mechanisms for adapting them to harsh environments and energy-scarce conditions. Mr. Yasser Nazim Abdul Rahim from the Ministry of Electricity delivered a presentation on the ministry’s renewable energy plan through 2040. Representatives of the Northwest Electric Power Design Institute discussed pathways for localizing smart grid technologies and transferring technical expertise.
Professor Dr. Zainab Ziyad Ismail from the University of Baghdad presented a research paper on waste-to-energy as a sustainable approach for wastewater treatment and bioelectricity generation. Mr. Rawa Mohammed Banjooyni from Progress Sun Company reviewed challenges related to energy consumption in industrial zones. Engineer Shahad Khaldoun Al-Nashi from Big Power Company presented a case study on electrical energy storage solutions and smart storage systems in Iraq.
Associate Professor Gamjin Izzat Rashid from Wuhan University discussed the strategic role of the Iraqi–Chinese joint laboratory in supporting research and development. Assistant Lecturer Mahmoud Sawadi from the University of Baghdad presented a paper on smart microgrid coordination using virtual circuit breaker technology. Associate Professor Zhao Jie from Wuhan University addressed research and development plans for low-carbon green operation in power systems.
In the concluding sessions, Assistant Professor Dr. Ammar Abdul Hassan Shaikha reviewed Iraq’s investment strategies in solar energy. Researcher Qing Ziqi from Huazhong University of Science and Technology presented on high-safety lithium battery technologies. Professor Ahmed Abdul-Kadhim Al-Hamadani emphasized that artificial intelligence represents the driving brain of the smart grid revolution. The sessions concluded with expert Lu Zihou from the Chinese State Grid Company, who presented successful applied models of technological transformation in the energy sector.
At the conclusion of the symposium, two research papers were selected as the best contributions based on innovation and technological need. Wuhan University announced its adoption of the two papers and its provision of full financial and logistical support. The selected papers were:
- “Waste-to-Energy: Latest Global Research Trends (A Sustainable Approach for Simultaneous Wastewater Treatment and Bioenergy Generation)” by Professor Dr. Zainab Ziyad Ismail.
- “Smart Microgrid Coordination Based on Virtual Circuit Breakers” by Assistant Lecturer Mahmoud Sawadi.
Both papers were recognized for their significant practical importance in the fields of sustainable energy and smart electrical grids.
The symposium also witnessed, in an academic atmosphere marked by appreciation and recognition, a ceremony to name the postgraduate studies hall in the Department of Electrical Engineering after Professor Dr. Qais Al-Sabbagh, in honor of his distinguished scientific and professional career and his pioneering role in advancing engineering education and supporting young generations of researchers.
Highlights from the symposium:
https://youtu.be/XMDy٥k٧dI٥s
Highlights from the opening of the postgraduate studies hall:
https://youtube.com/shorts/٦o_eBTvYYfs
