Keynote Speakers

Keynote Speaker

Prof. lr Dr Mohd Zainal Abidin b. Ab. Kadir
Universiti Putra Malaysia, Malaysia

Keynote Lecture: Mapping the Future of Energy: How GIS and DLR are Accelerating the Path to Clean Energy

Abstract: The race toward a net-zero energy future demands rapid, intelligent, and sustainable grid modernization. Yet, today’s transmission networks face significant barriers: ageing infrastructure operating beyond intended lifespans, climate-induced stressors, rising peak demand, and the need for large-scale grid expansion to integrate new technologies. These challenges threaten to slow down the pace of energy transition at a time when acceleration is critical.

This keynote will explore how Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Dynamic Line Rating (DLR) can play pivotal roles in addressing these challenges. GIS provides powerful geospatial intelligence, enabling utilities to visualize, analyse, and optimize assets with precise location-based data, supporting strategic planning and risk mitigation. Meanwhile, DLR introduces real-time monitoring and adaptive capacity ratings for transmission lines, maximizing grid utilization without costly infrastructure upgrades. Together, these technologies offer a transformative approach to grid management, bridging the gap between existing limitations and future energy needs.

Combining these technologies enables a smarter, more adaptive grid capable of supporting higher renewable penetration, reducing congestion, and enhancing climate resilience. This keynote envisions a future where data-driven intelligence, powered by geospatial analytics and live operational insights, becomes the cornerstone of accelerating global energy transition.

Biography: Prof. Zainal received his PhD in High Voltage Engineering from the University of Manchester, UK. Currently, he is the Dean and a Professor at the Faculty of Engineering, Universiti Putra Malaysia. He is a Fellow of the Academy of Sciences Malaysia (FASc) and a Fellow of the IET (FIET). Since 2015, Prof. Zainal has been an IEEE Power and Energy Society (PES) Distinguished Lecturer and was recognised as the Top Research Scientist Malaysia (TRSM) in 2014. To date, he has authored and co-authored over 450 journal and conference papers. He has supervised 40 PhD and 45 MSc students. His research interests include high voltage engineering, lightning protection, electromagnetic compatibility, renewable energy, and the grid of the future.