Net Zero to Hero: How Physics is Driving the Energy Transition

How can advancements in electronics help tackle climate change? In this talk, we explore how new “wide bandgap” semiconductors, (like gallium nitride, GaN) make power electronic devices (transistors, diodes and power circuits) faster, cooler, and far more efficient. From electric cars to renewable energy, these advanced materials and their novel devices help us cut waste and move toward Net Zero. Learn how these devices work, and how we innovate at the nanoscale to enable efficient, high voltage future technologies.

The way we generate, use and store energy is changing rapidly in the UK and the wider world to address climate change and energy security. Since 2010, the rise of renewable energy, and electrification of transport and heating has had huge benefits for the electricity grid, but the coming decades will present new challenges due to closure of nuclear plants and efforts to maintain grid stability. This talk will explore the history and future challenges of our energy system as we approach net zero, and how a mix of energy generation and storage will be required to create a clean, stable electricity grid.