From 1 to 27 February, Helena Bošnjak, a PhD researcher from FERIT Osijek, visited IRI UL through the SynGRID mobility exchange. Her research focuses on improving the operation and control of distribution networks under high renewable energy integration, aiming to increase hosting capacity while maintaining reliability and power quality. In her reflections below, Helena shares the research step she achieved during the exchange and highlights from her time in Ljubljana and across Slovenia.

In simple terms, what is your research about, and how does it connect to the energy transition and smarter grids?

Due to the increasing integration of renewable energy sources (RES), distribution networks originally designed for unidirectional power flow are facing technical challenges such as transformer and line overloading, voltage rise, and stability issues. My research focuses on improving the control of distribution power system components in order to increase the network hosting capacity under high levels of renewable energy integration. Hosting capacity refers to the maximum amount of distributed generation that can be integrated into the network while maintaining reliability, operational security, and power quality.

During your stay at IRI UL, what did you work on that felt like a real step forward for you?

During my stay at IRI UL, I developed a conference paper for the SST conference on the impact of a photovoltaic power plant on the grid with and without battery energy storage. The paper analyses the impact of the PV power plant and battery energy storage systems on voltage profiles, power flows, and network losses.

How did you experience the atmosphere at IRI UL and the wider university?

At IRI UL, I particularly liked the opportunity they offer students to actively participate in the work of the laboratory during their studies and, in collaboration with experienced researchers, systematically develop their research competencies. I believe that such an approach represents an extremely valuable experience for the further professional and scientific development of students, as it allows them direct insight into the research processes, work methodology, and current projects that researchers at IRI UL are working on.

Outside the lab: what surprised you most about Ljubljana or Slovenia, and what was your favourite free-time experience?

During our stay in Slovenia, we had the opportunity to visit many beautiful places, not only in Ljubljana but also outside of it. We explored Postojna Cave, Predjama Castle, Rakov Škocjan, Peričnik Waterfall, Vintgar Canyon, Kranjska Gora and many other interesting destinations. Each of these places was special in its own way, but I was personally most impressed by Postojna Cave with its uniqueness and impressive beauty. We also had the opportunity to visit SIJ Acroni in Jesenice, one of the largest steel mills in Europe. In addition to the excursions, we also enjoyed discovering the most beautiful parts of Ljubljana and trying traditional Slovenian cuisine, which gave our stay additional warmth and authenticity.