Victor Eniola: Outstanding Nigerian scholar advancing renewable energy frontiers

Mechanical engineer and renewable energy expert attributes his success to his relentless pursuit of advancing engineering frontiers. His goal is to continue making significant strides through research spanning various aspects of mechanical engineering and renewable energy. Fueled by curiosity since childhood and captivated by science, his journey has been nothing short of remarkable, driven by a deep passion for innovation.

Engr. Victor Eniola earned a national diploma in mechanical engineering with distinction from the Federal Polytechnic, Ado-Ekiti, a first-class bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from Obafemi Awolowo University, and a master’s degree in renewable energy with the highest possible CGPA (perfect distinction) from Naresuan University. His academic excellence reflects his extraordinary ability and dedication to being the best.

Engr. Eniola has over a decade of experience in the energy industry, contributing to numerous renewable energy projects sponsored by international organizations. At Naresuan University, he developed a high-fidelity statistical and machinelearning approach using hidden Markov model and genetic algorithms to forecast solar photovoltaic power output. He enhanced the model with a correction factor for abrupt fluctuations in solar irradiance, achieving a normalized root mean square error of less than 2.5% in testing and validation. His model aids grid operators, utilities, and power plant owners in hour-ahead predictions of solar power generation. Engr. Eniola received the top graduating student award andthe research excellence award, both demonstrating his outstanding academic and research achievements.

He said, “My current research in renewable energy focuses on the optimal integration of hydrogen systems, considering geospatial and temporal variations. I am working with a team to develop models for sizing hybrid wind-hydrogen microgrids for island applications. Green hydrogen can address mismatches between power demand and supply over various timescales. Some of our findings have been published, with more results forthcoming. We also plan to compare the performance of lithium-ion batteries within the microgrids.”

His work, published in peer-reviewed journals and conference proceedings, uses innovative approaches for power forecasting and hybrid energy system optimization. He has studied how wind speed fluctuations impact the optimal sizing of hybrid wind-hydrogen system components. A unique aspect of his research is the automated Matlab-Simscape feedback protocol he developed, eliminating the need for manual model runs to achieve optimality. Engr. Eniola found that higher wind speed fluctuations require fewer wind turbines and more tanks. His model supports microgrid optimization, aiding power system explorations and comparisons.

Engr. Eniola’s renewable energy expertise is instrumental for nations prioritizing energy independence and environmental sustainability. By improving the performance of solar, wind, and hybrid energy systems, his work directly aids countries in reducing their reliance on fossil fuels, achieving carbon neutrality, and securing a sustainable energy future. Engr. Eniola’s research not only aligns with global priorities but also provides the critical technical solutions required for nations to meet their energy and environmental goals.

Engr. Eniola received the prestigious AEE New England scholarship, recognizing his outstanding contributions to energy engineering. He has also been awarded numerous other honours, including the prestigious CMU doctoral scholarship.

Reflecting on his journey to study renewable energy, he said, “During my master’s degree, I focused on solar photovoltaic systems. For my Ph.D., I decided to explore wind power and hydrogen energy storage to broaden my expertise in renewable energy.”

Throughout his academic career, Engr. Eniola has been recognized for his extraordinary talents and achievements. He is a leader in a critical area of the economy and national security, and his influence is set to grow, making him a valuable asset for Nigeria and the world.