My name is Brendan Banfield, I’m the Building Services Manager and the Electrical Engineering Coordinator for Team UOW. I recently began my PhD in Electrical Engineering, with my topic focusing on optimal control and demand response of distributed energy resources like solar PV and batteries at the residential level. When I heard UOW was competing in the Solar Decathlon again, I jumped at the opportunity as it aligns with my own research. I am passionate about renewable energy and sustainability and was amazed at what UOW achieved with the previous entrant, The Illawarra Flame, so I knew I couldn’t miss the opportunity to join Team UOW this time around.

I’m currently writing this blog from my desk at the Sustainable Buildings Research Centre (SBRC) which is located at UOW’s beautiful Innovation Campus. This week I have been working on the development of the Desert Rose’s battery management system; this will be able to forecast various factors such as the weather and energy needs of the home. By knowing these factors, the battery will recognise the best time to charge and discharge, ensuring that Desert Rose uses as much of the renewable energy generated from our solar PV as possible.

I have also been working on the development of small, low cost Internet of Things (IoT) controllers. The possibilities of these are endless. We will be able to control the lights inside and outside the home, monitor indoor comfort conditions, like temperature and humidity, and even notify the occupants when their washing is complete. I am excited to see how ‘smart’ Desert Rose will become with the technology we are planning to implement in the home.

Last week I was fortunate enough to present to the Alternative Technologies Association. It was great to discuss the innovative ideas we will be implementing in Desert Rose and to receive feedback from some of the locals who share the same passion for sustainability and renewable energy that myself and Team UOW have.

Next, I will be continuing to assist with the design of all the services within the Desert Rose (electrical, plumbing and mechanical) with the rest of the Building Services team. I am hoping to secure some sponsors so we can begin procuring hardware in preparation for the build late this year. It is going to be an extremely busy eighteen months but I am excited to see what the future holds for Team UOW and the Desert Rose.