A researcher at the University of Houston recently earned a National Science Foundation CAREER award for his solution to the energy transition, “A Unified Zero-Carbon-Driven Design Framework for Accelerating Power Grid Deep Decarbonization.”

Jian Shi, assistant professor at the university’s Cullen College of Engineering, has proposed a carbon-driven framework, called ZERO-Accelerator, to achieve the goal of net-zero electric power faster.

The primary concept behind his ZERO-Accelerator begins with integrating novel carbon-driven mechanisms, methodologies and algorithms into current power grid operational practices, with the intention of expediting the move from carbon-intensive to carbon-free sources for electricity generation without diminishing operational standards or negatively impacting societal obligations.

“One of the most major challenges inherent in energy transition is the cost,” Shi said. “While reducing carbon emissions serves the best interest of society in the long run, the short-term financial burdens also need to be carefully evaluated to ensure that we have a safe, affordable, reliable, and just transition for all. This challenge has inspired me to work on the innovative framework of ‘ZERO-Accelerator.’”

The framework has a three-pronged effect: it determines how to manage carbon allowance allocation and trading for electricity producers; how to maintain a 24/7 zero-carbon power grid for grid operators; and how to help consumers understand their carbon footprint.

Approximately three-quarters of all U.S. greenhouse gas emissions come from burning fossil fuels for energy. To move closer to the net-zero goal, it’s essential to develop new ways to produce and consume energy.

There’s already been an increase in technologies such as giant batteries, wind turbines and solar panels. Over 5 gigawatt-hours of battery capacity have been added to the grid, wind power is up by 25% and solar generation has nearly tripled.

Shi’s award runs through February 2029, with $500,861 in funding.

“Thanks to this award, I will now be fully dedicated to working on my long-term research goal: to transform knowledge into actionable force for impact and collaborate with key climate stakeholders to shape the landscape of future energy ecosystems in the Lone Star State and beyond,” he said.

The University of Houston is a Carnegie-designated Tier One public research university recognized with a Phi Beta Kappa chapter for excellence in undergraduate education. As part of his CAREER proposal, Shi will train the next-generation energy workforce to lead the energy transition in the future.