- Expertise in Power Systems: Meenakshi Khandelwal’s research focuses on cutting-edge areas such as distribution system modeling, flexibility markets, and power system optimization. Her work on optimizing distribution networks and addressing challenges related to DERs (Distributed Energy Resources) positions her as a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award.
- Impressive Publication Record: With publications in reputable journals and conferences, such as the International Journal of Electrical Power and Energy Systems and IEEE conferences, she demonstrates her ability to contribute valuable knowledge to the field.
- Relevant Academic Background: Her academic journey through prestigious institutions like IIT Delhi and Malaviya National Institute of Technology Jaipur, combined with her high academic performance (CGPA of 8.40 in PhD and 8.95 in M.Tech.), highlights her strong theoretical foundation and commitment to excellence.
- Recognition and Awards: She has received the POSOCO Award for outstanding master’s thesis and a Gold Medal for securing the top position in her master’s program, further affirming her capabilities and potential in the field.
- Technical Skills: Proficiency in a wide range of tools and software like MATLAB, Python, and GAMS, which are essential for advanced research in power systems, enhances her ability to execute complex research projects effectively.
Areas for Improvement
- Broader Collaboration: While her work is impressive, increasing collaboration with industry partners and other academic institutions could further strengthen her research impact and innovation potential.
- Diverse Research Topics: Expanding her research to encompass emerging topics in the power systems field, such as renewable energy integration or smart grid cybersecurity, could make her profile more robust and versatile.
- International Exposure: Gaining more international exposure through collaborations or participation in global conferences could help her broaden her research perspective and establish a more global network.
Education
Meenakshi Khandelwal is currently pursuing her Ph.D. in Power Systems at the Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, where she is working on developing an Efficient Distribution Locational Marginal Price Framework. Her research involves creating innovative Optimal Power Flow (OPF) techniques and proposing frameworks to address the challenges of active distribution networks and high penetration of Distributed Energy Resources (DERs). She holds an M.Tech. in Power Systems from Malaviya National Institute of Technology Jaipur, where she graduated with a CGPA of 8.95. During her M.Tech., she worked on market products for flexible power systems and the optimal scheduling of virtual power plants under multiple locational marginal prices. Meenakshi completed her B.Tech. in Electrical Engineering from Global Institute of Technology, Jaipur, with a commendable percentage of 79.73%, laying a strong foundation for her advanced studies in power systems.
Experience
Meenakshi Khandelwal has accumulated valuable industry and academic experience. She started her career as a Graduate Engineer Trainee at Kamal Cogent Energy in Jaipur, where she worked from July 2013 to July 2015. As a LEED engineer, she focused on green building design, sustainable practices, and energy consumption simulations. Meenakshi’s role involved conducting feasibility studies, site assessments, and ensuring compliance with certification standards. She also interned at TISHITU Research & Consultancy Cell for Industrial Applications, where she worked on a micro-controller-based single-axis solar tracker system. Her academic experience includes serving as a teaching assistant for postgraduate and undergraduate courses in power network modeling and optimization at IIT Delhi. This blend of industry and academic exposure has equipped Meenakshi with a comprehensive understanding of power systems, which she continues to enhance through her ongoing research.
Awards and Honors
Meenakshi Khandelwal has been recognized with several prestigious awards for her outstanding contributions to the field of power systems. In 2019, she received the POSOCO Award, a national accolade for her exceptional master’s thesis in the power system domain. This award highlights her innovative approach and significant impact on the field. In 2018, Meenakshi was honored with a Gold Medal from Malaviya National Institute of Technology Jaipur, where she secured the first position in her M.Tech. program in Power Systems. These accolades are a testament to her dedication, hard work, and academic excellence. Meenakshi’s achievements reflect her commitment to advancing power system technology and her potential to make further contributions to the field. Her recognition at both the university and national levels underscores her capabilities as a leading researcher in power systems.
Research Focus
Meenakshi Khandelwal’s research is centered on advancing power distribution system modeling and optimizing electricity market operations. Her work primarily focuses on developing frameworks for efficient market participation of distributed energy resources (DERs) through innovative Optimal Power Flow (OPF) techniques. She explores the integration of flexibility markets, virtual power plants, and unsupervised machine learning into power systems to enhance grid reliability and efficiency. Meenakshi is particularly interested in the challenges posed by high DER penetration and the need for decentralized energy business models. Her research aims to contribute to the smart grid’s technological evolution, focusing on reducing the computational burden during day-ahead and real-time market clearing processes. By bridging the gap between system operation and market economics, Meenakshi’s work is paving the way for a more resilient and adaptive power grid, crucial for future energy landscapes.
Publication Top Notes
Current sensitivity based OPF framework for active distribution network
Electro-thermal Resource Interaction to Accommodate Inevitable Uncertain Events of Distribution Network
Electro-thermal Resource Interaction to Accommodate Inevitable Uncertain Events of Distribution Network
Conclusion
Meenakshi Khandelwal is a dedicated and accomplished researcher with a solid track record in power systems research. Her strong academic background, relevant publications, and technical skills make her a worthy contender for the Best Researcher Award. To further enhance her candidacy, she could benefit from expanding her research collaborations and gaining more international exposure. Overall, her achievements and potential align well with the criteria for this award, making her a strong candidate.