Personal profile
Research Focus
My research focuses on the integration of flexible electrical loads within renewable-dominant power systems. I investigate how dispatchable, high-density loads can enhance grid stability, reduce renewable curtailment, and improve overall system efficiency.
A central case study within this work examines blockchain mining as a controllable demand-response load. Using energy systems modelling, scenario-based simulation, and carbon intensity analysis, I evaluate its potential to absorb surplus wind generation and reduce marginal emissions under varying grid conditions.
I also examine how large-scale digital loads interact with energy-market dynamics and distributional outcomes, linking technical system modelling with broader infrastructure impacts
Role
Post-Graduate Researcher at School of Mechancial and Aerospace Engineering, Queens University Belfast.
Achievements
Academic attainment
PhD Mechanical Engineering, Queen’s University Belfast (in progress)
PhD Research: Flexible Electrical Load Integration in Renewable-Dominant Systems (Case Study: Blockchain Mining)
MSc International Business, University of Ulster, Magee (2020) Dissertation: Cryptocurrency Adoption in Emerging Digital Financial Markets
BSc Business with Accounting, Ulster University, Coleraine (2016)
Interests
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Renewable Energy Systems
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Energy Efficiency and Demand Response
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Flexible Electrical Loads
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Sustainable Finance
Achievements
Peer-Reviewed Conference Presentation
The 17th International Conference on Applied Energy (ICAE), United Nations Conference Centre (UNCC) (2025)
Paper: Mining the Wind: Blockchain-Enabled Flexible Loads for Curtailment Mitigation
Conference Presentation
8th Sustainable Impact Investment International Conference (SIIIC), University College Dublin (2025)
Presentation: Transforming Cryptocurrency Sustainability: Leveraging Wind Curtailment Energy with Layer 2 Technologies in Ireland
Expert Panel Contributor
Bitcoin Ireland – International Conference, Green Isle Hotel, Dublin (2025)
Panel: Bitcoin Maturing, ETF Growth and FASB Accounting Changes
Poster Presentation Participant
Sir Bernard Crossland Annual Poster Competition, Queen’s University Belfast (2025)
Title: Dynamic System Modelling of Blockchain-Enabled Flexible Demand for Wind Curtailment Mitigation
Teaching
Fluid Dynamics (Undergraduate) – 2025
School of Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering
Queen’s University Belfast
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Supported tutorial problem-solving sessions
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Explained worked solutions to governing equations
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Invigilated examinations
Thermodynamics (Undergraduate) – 2026
School of Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering
Queen’s University Belfast
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Facilitated weekly tutorial sessions
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Assisted with derivations and conceptual explanations
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Invigilated examinations
Keywords
- TJ Mechanical engineering and machinery
- Flexible Loads
- Renewable Energy Systems
Expertise related to UN Sustainable Development Goals
In 2015, UN member states agreed to 17 global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to end poverty, protect the planet and ensure prosperity for all. This person’s work contributes towards the following SDG(s):
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SDG 7 Affordable and Clean Energy
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SDG 9 Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
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SDG 10 Reduced Inequalities
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SDG 11 Sustainable Cities and Communities
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SDG 12 Responsible Consumption and Production
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SDG 16 Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions
Fingerprint
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Collaborations and top research areas from the last five years
Research output
- 1 Conference contribution
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Mining the wind: blockchain-enabled flexible loads for curtailment mitigation
Edwards, R., Pappas, D. & Smyth, B., 01 Mar 2026, Energy Proceedings 2026. 7 p. (Energy Proceedings; vol. 66).Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceeding › Conference contribution
Open AccessFile6 Downloads (Pure)
Activities
- 2 Participation in conference
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Bitcoin Ireland - International Conference
Edwards, R. (Participant)
24 May 2025Activity: Participating in or organising an event types › Participation in conference
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the 8th edition of the Sustainable and Impact Investments International Conference (SIIIC)
Edwards, R. (Presenter) & Pappas, D. (Participant)
14 Jan 2025Activity: Participating in or organising an event types › Participation in conference