The EESN Seed Grant Scheme provides crucial funding for collaborative projects between universities and industry, which are focused on technology innovation, development, and impact. The EESN is one of the three networks under the NSW Decarbonisation Innovation Hub.

Dr Sara Deilami and Dr Foad Taghizadeh, both from Macquarie’s School of Engineering, have been awarded a total of $599,445 in funding for their respective projects.

Dr Foad Taghizadeh’s project with industry partner, Smartizer, involves developing an AI-driven energy management platform with a modular, plug-and-play battery system that integrates with EV chargers and solar inverters.

“Winning this grant is a fantastic milestone for our team. The funding will help us refine our prototype, achieve certification, and bring our vision to life. It is a pivotal step toward delivering a solution that empowers homeowners to maximise their renewable energy usage while contributing to a more sustainable future,” says Taghizadeh.

Dr Sara Deilami’s project with industry partner Stryder involves using an artificial intelligence algorithm to optimise the efficiency of electric shuttle (e-shuttle) bus routes and battery capacity, to create a more efficient, cost-effective, and sustainable transportation system.

Dr Deilami says, “This funding will support the development of innovative solutions to address challenges in electric infrastructure.”

Over 18 months, the selected projects will work towards translating electrification and energy systems technologies and innovations, and address regulatory, policy, community transition, and economic barriers to decarbonisation, leading to significant economic impact and capacity building across NSW.

This initiative is funded by the Environmental Trust and our Network Partners; University of Newcastle, University of New South Wales, University of Wollongong, University of Technology Sydney and the NSW Dept of Primary Industries.