Lead the charge in renewable energy with a Bachelor of Electrical and Computer Systems Engineering
10 September 2022
Renewable energy may be a current affair, but it has much to grow in terms of procurement, accessibility and distribution. As recently as August 2022, Malaysian Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob said that the government expects 14,000 job opportunities and new investments worth RM6 billion to be created to support the development of the country’s renewable energy sector.
This is great news for electrical and computer systems engineers who are needed to support this charge, more so in semiconductor manufacturing and development which is a key component in renewable energy harvesting equipment.
In addition, Malaysia is the world’s sixth largest semiconductor exporter, naturally making the development of electronics and computer science crucial for the country’s future in sustainable energy.
How electrical and computer system is continuously upgrading renewable energy
Malaysia has a target of generating at least 20% of its needed energy through renewables by 2025, and solar energy is seen as a major contributor. However, what happens when the weather is less than ideal or when the sun is constantly changing in position?
To combat this issue, the field of electronics and computer science is useful in creating algorithms such as machine learning to better manage energy use and reduce energy loss.
Machine learning algorithms can recognise specific patterns in data sets, create mathematical models, and utilise these models to make predictions or to adjust the positioning of solar panels with minimal human input.
Furthermore, algorithms can also be used to create smart power grids, where the collected data provides network operators with greater control and flexibility in dealing with problems remotely.
Apart from that, the creation of microgrids and energy storage batteries are other products in which semiconductors are used to better manage power supply and store necessary energy.
When it comes to Malaysia’s other renewable energy source, hydroelectricity, the expertise of electrical and electronic engineers will surely be valued in the production of static frequency converters and static excitation systems. Computer science professionals will also be crucial in analysing, designing and stimulating better system software for hydropower optimisation.
Wind power is another source of renewable energy that heavily relies on electrical and computer science. While Malaysia has generally low wind speeds that may not be ideal for commercial wind farms, the prospect of wind harvesting is a serious consideration in coastal areas and is currently being studied. More good news comes from the manufacturing of key components for wind turbines, of which Malaysia is most definitely capable. Computer science is once again required to create complex control algorithms that will enable wind turbines to respond efficiently and dynamically, adjusting to variances in wind speeds, turbulence and more.
Playing a part in a sustainable future
You do not need to graduate before starting to contribute towards a better future. During your Bachelor of Electrical and Computer Systems Engineering (Honours) studies at Monash Malaysia, you will be able to participate in various student projects and clubs with a focus on sustainability.
Among some of the most exciting and fulfilling experiences you will have is as a member of Monash Malaysia’s Engineers Without Borders (EWB) student chapter. EWB is a non-profit organisation that seeks to create change by alleviating social and environmental issues through humanitarian engineering. Alumni that have volunteered in the past for EWB have installed a micro hydro generator system to power houses in a remote village, constructed a workshop for a shelter home, and renovated refugee schools.
You will also have many opportunities to learn new skills such as critical leadership, teamwork and communication skills by engaging with industry professionals through workshops, industry site visits and leadership summits over the course of a year.
As renewable energy continues to grow around the world, electrical and computer system experts will be in high demand and you will be well positioned to make a difference in various fields such as semiconductor technology, power generation, computer systems, automation systems and more.
Click here to take the lead in creating a sustainable future with Monash Malaysia.