Werner Van Westering Email & Phone Number

As initiator and lab manager of the AI for Energy Grids lab I oversee the work of our PhD students and research scientists. I also work on the implementation of their research within Alliander.

As a principal researcher at Alliander's Research Center for Digital Technologies, I manage initiate and develop new research regarding algorithms and AI, using my Ph.D. work as basis.

I am also responsible for coordinating the research collaboration with several universities within the data science department of Alliander. Together with my colleagues I work on research proposals and research strategy.

Arnhem

My main current project is creating a large scale state estimator, which is an algorithm which monitors the entire Alliander electricity network. Recently, I completed my part-time Ph.D on this subject. My role involves the strategic planning of this project, but also direct mathematical research. I pioneered the first version of this state estimator six years ago and initiated this long-term project. Currently, there is approximately 40 FTE working on this product.

As a senior data scientist, I specialized in modeling large scale electricity networks.Example projects:- Initiating project State Estimation. My vision was to create a comprehensive tool to model the entire Alliander network. The first version brought down the simulation time from three months to thirty seconds, opening the door to automatic network design.- Developing the controller of the 'Buurtbatterij', the neighbourhood battery in Rijsenhout. The battery uses advanced prediction, machine learning and optimization techniques to predict and mitigate voltage problems due to solar power generation.

My main role as a data scientist has been that of a solution consultant. I initiated several successful projects, of which a few are listed below.Project examples, where I worked on:- Creating a model which calculates the impact of the energy transition techniques on the power grid, such as solar power and electrical vehicles. This model simulates trillions of data points and already major impact on the company, both on a strategic and operational level.- Developing a model (together with masters student Michiel van der Meulen) which calculates the optimal operational configuration of an electricity network, resulting in a theoretical reduction of 20% of power transportation losses. Once implemented, this model will save approximately 5-10 million euros per year.- Inventing a model which calculates the optimal operating pressure of a gas network, resulting in a theoretical reduction of 20% of gas leakage. Once implemented, this model will save approximately 1-3 million euros per year.These projects are also the main publication subjects of my PhD at the TU Delft.

Arnhem

As a technical trainee at Alliander, I honed my professional working skills.

At TNO I developed a mathematical gas network model, which makes it possible to:- Monitor real-time flow and pressure levels- Reduce gas losses by pressure control- Interpret sensor data to find faults and leaks

Formula Zero is the hydrogen racing team of the TU-Delft. As a parttime mechanical engineer I:- Constructed a real-time controller for the Hydrogen Fuel Stack - Redesigned the heat dissipation system- Promoted the Formula Zero hydrogen kart

As the chair of Out of Control I was ultimately responsible for the study association. While I was chair, the board re-ignited the association by creating new activities, such as extra courses and drinks. Up to this day, Out of Control is once again a professional study association.

As a the first secretary I was responsible for the public relations of the student association. Also I monitored and enhanced the academic development of the members by organizing many lectures and workshops.

The Sustainability was the largest event in the field of sustainability of the TU-Delft. Some of the speakers: Diederik Samson (PvdA), Jeroen van der Veer (ex-CEO Shell) and Karel Luyben (rector magnificus TU-Delft).As chairman, I was ultimately responsible for the result of the event.

Delft

As commissioner extern at Students4Sustainability foundation, I handled the external contacts of the organization, such as the TU-Delft and involved companies. I also was responsible for the promotion and PR of the foundation.

Student Assistant in a course of 3D-CAD with Pro/Engineer. Students would consult me with in-depth questions about this program.

Doctor Of Philosophy (Ph.D.), Mechanical And Electrical Engineering

I have completed my parttime Ph.D. in the field of large scale distribution network simulations.

Master’S Degree, Systems & Control

Activities and Societies: Chairman of the study association 'Out of Control' (2011-2013)The master track 'Systems & Control' focusses.

Bachelor Of Science (Bsc.), Mechanical Engineering

Activities and Societies: Cum Laude first year (top 5%), Minor in Physics, Honours track