The first stage of the Nordic Energy Challenge 2024 is concluded, with seven candidates advancing to the second phase. The next step for the qualified participants is to submit their final proposals by 23 August.

Meet this year’s challengers, one by one, and gain insight into their ideas in support of Citizen Engagement. One of the participating duos is Changfu Zou and Xiaolei Bian. 

Changfu Zou, Associate Professor, and Xiaolei Bian, Postdoctoral Researcher, at Chalmers University of Technology.

  • Name: Changfu Zou and Xiaolei Bian
  • Position: Associate Professor and Postdoctoral Researcher
  • Institution: Chalmers University of Technology
  • Name of idea: ChargeForward: Empowering citizens with AI to enhance battery health and sustainability
  • Summary of idea: As the Nordic region transitions to a sustainable energy system, innovative solutions are essential for enhancing energy efficiency and engaging citizens. Batteries, crucial in daily life, face challenges like inefficient use, raw material consumption, safety risks, degradation, and slow charging. These issues can be addressed by leveraging AI and involving citizens. We will develop user-friendly platforms, deploy advanced sensors, and create AI-driven battery digital twins for real-time monitoring. Intelligent control strategies and educational initiatives will optimize battery usage and increase citizen involvement. The project aims to enhance battery performance and increase public engagement, supporting the Nordic region’s sustainability goals.