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Phil Coker

Project Researcher

University of Reading

Phil’s core research examines the variability of renewable energy supplies and the challenges this brings for the energy industry in moving towards a low carbon energy system. His work seeks to evaluate solutions that can help maintain secure and affordable energy supplies, drawing on three intertwined themes: (i) characterising the factors that lead to patterns in energy supply availability (ii) analysing areas of critical concern for energy systems, including extreme, coincident and unforeseen events (iii) exploring technical and market-based options for aligning supply and demand, including alternatives such as demand response, energy storage, vehicle to grid and hydrogen applications. Much of this work has involved a close collaboration with meteorological experts and an emphasis on application to industry, including energy companies, energy users and solutions providers. This has included a series of projects helping National Grid adapt to the recent, dramatic expansion of renewable generation within the UK electricity system. This focus draws from an earlier 15 year career in the UK gas industry. After training as a mechanical engineer, he worked as an engineer and manager across roles including network planning and pressure control & storage. Shifting to freelance consultancy led to PhD study and onwards to current research.

Transport & Mobility

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