Clean energy scientist powers into new role

Dr Bjorn Sturmberg is on a mission to accelerate our transition to clean energy.

As a Senior Research Fellow at The Australian National University’s Battery Storage and Grid Integration Program, his work focuses on electric vehicles and batteries and the crucial role they could play in powering our electricity grid into the future.

It’s work that is also helping guide the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) on its path to becoming a zero emissions economy.

In a world first, Sturmberg recently demonstrated how electric vehicles in the ACT helped to prevent a blackout by feeding power back into the grid.

He’s also been named the 2024 ACT Emerging Scientist of the Year.

“It’s nice to be reminded that people do care about the work you’re doing, and that it’s being heard by the general public and decision-makers,” Sturmberg says.

While he’s quick to point out the seriousness of our current climate emergency, Sturmberg also strongly believes in the power of science and its ability to have a positive impact on the world.

“It can help us create a better future,” he says.

“The things we’re working on are very real, very tangible things that have real-world impact.  

“Like millions of Australians, I’ve set out to replace polluting appliances with electric ones that can be powered by renewables like solar panels.

“The challenge is, if everyone does this, it could also create a need for a major upgrade of the electricity grid, which would cost billions of dollars and take decades.

“My research is developing ways to avoid this by coordinating when large appliances – like electric vehicles and water heaters – use power.”

Sturmberg is also keen to inspire the next generation of scientists. His children’s book, Amy’s Balancing Act, has been shared with 50,000 school students.

His message to budding scientists is a simple one. 

“Despite some of the stereotypes, science is a dynamic, creative pursuit that can have a profoundly positive impact.  

“Science is at its best when there is diversity in the scientific community. 

“I want to encourage everyone to consider how they could use science to create the future they want to live in.”