Energy is essential to modern life, yet the way we produce and consume it must change dramatically to meet climate goals. Solar power is expected to play a key role in this transition, but how can we optimize its use? During her PhD research, Parisa explored fundamental questions about transforming the energy system, focusing on solar PV and demand management. Using an open-source macro-energy model, she investigated the potential of rooftop solar and innovative technologies like solar tracking to accelerate the green transition and enhance energy independence. As part of Project AURORA, she also contributed to establishing an energy community in Aarhus, which crowdfunded and installed rooftop solar panels on the university campus. As Europe’s Net-zero target is only 25 years away, her research highlights the need for strategic planning to build a sustainable energy future.
The PhD study was completed at the Department of Mechanical and Production Engineering, Faculty of Technical Sciences, Aarhus University.

This summary was prepared by the PhD student.

Time: Friday, 25/04/2025 at 10:00
Place: 5510-104 Lille Auditorium, Incuba, Åbogade 15, Aarhus N, 8200
Title of PhD thesis: Green Transition of the European Energy System: Role of Solar PV and Demand Management
Contact Information: Parisa Rahdan, e-mail: parisr@mpe.au.dk , tel.: +45-91640546
Members of the Assessment Committee:
Professor of Solar Economy Christian Breyer, Laboratory of Electrical Engineering Lappeeranta, University of Technology, Finland
Senior Researcher Wolf-Peter Schill, Department Energy, Transportation, Environment at the German Institute for Economic Research (DIW Berlin), Germany
Associate Professor Mahdi Abkar, Department of Mechanical and Production Engineering, Aarhus University, Denmark (chair)
Main Supervisor: 
Associate Professor Marta Victoria, Department of Mechanical & Production Engineering, Aarhus University, Denmark.
Co-supervisor:
Associate Professor Gorm Bruun Andresen, Department of Mechanical & Production Engineering, Aarhus University, Denmark.
Language: The PhD dissertation will be defended in English
The defence is public.

The PhD thesis is available for reading at the Graduate School of Technical Sciences/GSTS, Ny Munkegade 120, building 1521, 8000 Aarhus C.