PhD Exchange Visit Strengthens Collaboration Between NTUA and IRI UL Under SynGRID Project

As part of the EU-funded SynGRID project, a successful academic exchange was conducted in May between the National Technical University of Athens (NTUA) and the Innovation and Research Institute of the University of Ljubljana (IRI UL). Alexandros Chronis, a PhD student from NTUA, spent three weeks at IRI UL, working closely with the research team to explore shared interests in energy systems and policy.

This exchange took place immediately after the SynGRID Summer School and marked an extended opportunity for collaborative engagement. During his time in Ljubljana, Alex focused on identifying suitable EU funding calls to support future joint research initiatives between NTUA and IRI UL.

A significant part of his research during the visit was dedicated to modelling a virtual net billing mechanism tailored to the Greek electricity market. He analysed the effects of recent legislative developments on prosumers and examined how these changes shape the evolving landscape of decentralized energy. This work directly contributes to the SynGRID project’s goal of supporting digital energy transitions and cross-border policy alignment.

“The exchange was a great opportunity to align our work on energy systems and energy policy, and to share insights on digital energy transitions,” Alex noted.

Outside of work, Alex thoroughly enjoyed his time in Ljubljana. “Ljubljana was an amazing experience, green, walkable, and full of life,” he said, expressing heartfelt thanks to the IRI UL team for their warm hospitality and productive collaboration.

The exchange has strengthened ties between NTUA and IRI UL, laying a strong foundation for future cooperation within SynGRID and beyond.