The Energy Research Center at Al-Mustaqbal University welcomed Dr. Azhar Mohsen, Dean of the College of Engineering and Engineering Technologies accompanied by a distinguished group of faculty members, in a scientific visit aimed at enhancing research and practical collaboration between the engineering departments and the center. During the visit, the Computer Engineering Department showcased a collection of innovative student projects focused on smart systems and renewable energy applications, highlighting their role in promoting sustainability through modern technologies. In addition, several projects from other engineering departments were presented, characterized by their eco-friendly designs and reliance on renewable energy sources, such as solar and thermal energy. These projects align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those related to Clean Energy, Innovation, and Climate Action. The visit reflected the strong commitment of both the college and the center to supporting applied scientific research and encouraging students to develop sustainable solutions and modern technologies to address environmental and energy challenges in Iraq, contributing to a more sustainable and energy-efficient future.

The Energy Research Center at Al-Mustaqbal University welcomed Dr. Azhar Mohsen, Dean of the College of Engineering and Engineering Technologies accompanied by a group of distinguished faculty members, in a scientific visit aimed at strengthening research and practical collaboration between the engineering departments and the center. During the visit, the Department of Prosthetics and Orthotics Engineering presented several innovative student projects focused on the design and development of smart assistive and prosthetic devices, aimed at improving the quality of life for individuals with disabilities, while integrating sustainability and energy efficiency concepts into their designs. Other engineering departments also showcased eco-friendly projects that rely on renewable energy sources, such as solar and thermal energy. These projects align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those related to Clean Energy, Innovation, and Climate Action. The visit reflected the commitment of both the college and the center to promoting applied scientific research and encouraging students to utilize sustainable and modern technologies to address environmental and energy challenges in Iraq, contributing to a more sustainable and innovative future.

During the visit, a selection of student projects and applied research were presented, showcasing the university’s commitment to sustainable development, clean energy, and the integration of modern technologies in solving environmental and energy challenges. This visit reflects the joint efforts of the college and the research center to strengthen academic collaboration and ensure the success of the Sustainability Camp, preparing a new generation of engineers capable of leading the transition toward a more sustainable and energy-efficient future.

This diagram illustrates how Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) controllers play a crucial role in modern solar power systems. What is MPPT? MPPT stands for Maximum Power Point Tracking. It’s an advanced technique used to extract the maximum possible power from a solar panel under varying sunlight and temperature conditions. How It Works: • Solar panels convert sunlight into DC electricity. • The MPPT controller continuously monitors the voltage and current output of the solar panels. • It automatically adjusts the electrical operating point to ensure the system runs at the maximum power point — the “sweet spot” where voltage and current multiply to give the highest power. • The optimized power is then supplied to batteries, inverters, or loads efficiently, minimizing losses and boosting overall energy yield. Benefits of MPPT Controllers: Increases energy efficiency by 20–30% compared to traditional charge controllers. Adapts to changing weather and shading conditions. Prolongs battery life by ensuring optimal charging. Enhances overall system reliability and performance. As renewable energy adoption grows, MPPT technology continues to make solar systems smarter, more efficient, and more sustainable.

In line with its strategic vision aimed at academic openness and enhancing its global presence, Al-Mustaqbal University held a series of meetings chaired by Prof. Dr. Hassan Shakir Majdi, President of the University, to discuss mechanisms for activating international cooperation agreements signed with several reputable global universities. The meetings were attended by Prof. Dr. Mudhafar Sadiq Al-Zuhairi, Director of Scientific and Academic Supervision, along with a number of college deans and the Director of the Cultural Relations Department, as well as the Director of Al-Mustaqbal Center for Energy Research, who participated in the discussions on research collaboration in renewable energy and sustainability. He presented the center’s vision for expanding international scientific partnerships in the fields of clean energy and green technologies. During the discussions, communication was made with several distinguished British and American universities to explore new opportunities for collaboration, in alignment with the Iraqi Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research’s strategy to internationalize higher education and enhance joint academic and research partnerships. The University President emphasized the importance of utilizing these agreements and partnerships to advance the university’s global objectives, calling for practical action plans to activate cooperation in priority areas, particularly in scientific research, academic exchange, and the development of joint academic programs. He also stressed the need to transform these agreements into tangible projects that contribute to raising academic and research performance, strengthen the university’s presence in international scientific networks, and align with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Ministry’s vision for promoting excellence and quality across higher education institutions. These meetings come as part of Al-Mustaqbal University’s ongoing efforts to solidify its position as a leading institution committed to academic and research excellence at both the regional and global levels.

Today marked the beginning of the practical phase of the course, where engineers provided a detailed explanation on how to connect solar energy systems and determine the appropriate number of solar panels according to the electrical load capacity and the type of system being used. They also discussed the function of inverters and their role in converting energy from direct current (DC) to alternating current (AC), along with an explanation of the different types of inverters and their applications in residential, commercial, and hybrid systems. The practical session also included hands-on applications on real solar system models, where participants conducted initial design calculations and learned the steps of safe interconnection between panels, batteries, and inverters, in addition to analyzing system performance and interpreting technical results. Participants expressed great enthusiasm for benefiting from the practical training, which allowed them to combine theoretical knowledge with real-world application, thus enhancing their technical skills in designing and implementing solar energy projects. This activity comes as part of the Solar Energy Hackathon competition organized by the center, which aims to prepare a generation of qualified individuals capable of creating sustainable solutions in the field of renewable energy, supporting the shift towards clean energy in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).