Sweta Malik

Can you introduce yourself and your work?

My name is Dr Sweta Malik, and I am a Senior Power Systems Researcher at the UCD Energy Institute. In addition to my research, I am a Committee Member for the National Standards Authority of Ireland (NSAI) and lead the NSAI Emerging Professionals Group. Last year, I was honoured to receive the Standards and Innovation Award in the Young Professional category from CEN (European Committee for Standardization) and CENELEC (European Committee for Electrotechnical Standardization) for my research on local energy markets.

What is your NexSys research about and what are you working on at the moment?

Imagine you have solar panels on your roof that generate extra electricity. Typically, you would sell this excess energy to the grid at a lower price, but my research focuses on how users can instead trade this energy with their neighbours at a higher price, benefiting both parties. This is known as peer-to-peer (P2P) energy trading. I'm developing a trading model using bilevel optimization and game theoretical techniques, where an aggregator manages transactions between prosumers (those who both produce and consume energy) and consumers, ensuring efficient and fair energy exchange within the community.

Additionally, I'm working on a study for the UCD campus, where I explore how buildings with renewable energy sources like solar PV, combined heat and power (CHP), electric vehicles (EVs), and storage systems can trade electricity with each other. This platform allows the campus buildings to act as peers in a local energy market, reducing their dependence on the grid, optimizing energy use, and lowering costs.

How did you become interested in this research field?

I’ve always been passionate about finding solutions to the global climate crisis, and the energy sector plays a crucial role in addressing this issue. Seeing the rapid environmental degradation caused by our dependence on fossil fuels motivated me to focus on renewable energy as a solution. The idea that we can harness clean, sustainable energy sources like solar and wind, while reducing our carbon footprint, fascinated me. Achieving Sustainable Development Goal 7—affordable and clean energy for all—has been a driving force in my work.

What is one interesting fact about your research area people may not know about?

Most people assume that the energy they produce from solar panels, for example, is either used within their home or sold back to the grid at a low price. However, through peer-to-peer trading, individuals can sell their excess energy directly to other consumers at a better price. This not only benefits the prosumers by increasing their revenues, but also helps create a more decentralized and resilient energy system.

What is the wider relevance of your research to the energy transition?

• Societal impact: My research enables communities to actively participate in energy markets and generate additional revenue, empowering individuals while making energy more affordable.
• Climate impact: By integrating DERs like solar, wind, and storage into local energy markets, my work supports the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions by promoting cleaner, renewable energy sources.
• Environmental impact: Reducing reliance on fossil fuel-based power plants helps cut CO2 emissions and lowers the environmental footprint of energy generation.
• Policy impact: The research aligns with the EU Clean Energy Package and Renewable Energy Directive, supporting policies that promote renewable energy, grid flexibility, and consumer empowerment.

What is something people may find surprising about you?

I’m a trained Indian classical dancer, and I love practicing whenever I get the chance—it’s a great way to unwind. I also enjoy creating detailed mandala art, which is a relaxing and meditative process for me.