Energy & Industrial Applications

Energy & Industrial Applications stories focus on the engineering and systems-level breakthroughs that power our modern world. From optimizing the Texas electric grid to developing sustainable cooling for massive data centers, this theme showcases UTA’s role in securing a reliable and efficient energy future. Readers can explore how our researchers collaborate with industry giants to advance battery storage, hydrogen fuel cells, and smart manufacturing processes that drive economic growth while protecting environmental resources.

Image shows Dr. Dereje Agonafer and his students in their lab

UTA leads charge to solve AI data centers’ energy crisis

As generative AI demand skyrockets, so does the massive energy and water consumption required to cool the data centers supporting it. Led by Presidential Distinguished Professor Dereje Agonafer and funded by the DOE’s ARPA-E program, UTA researchers are developing liquid-cooling technologies designed to reduce cooling energy consumption to less than 5% of a facility’s IT load. This work is critical for North Texas, a "ground zero" for data center expansion, ensuring that the AI revolution doesn't compromise local power and water stability.

UTA powers smarter microgrids with new converter tech

Dr. Liwei Zhou in the Department of Electrical Engineering is revolutionizing how localized energy systems—microgrids—operate. His team has developed programmable power converters that allow campuses, hospitals, and neighborhoods to manage diverse energy sources like solar panels and EV chargers with extreme precision. By optimizing power conversion across multiple time scales, this technology ensures that electricity continues to flow even if the main grid fails, providing a cost-effective blueprint for resilient urban energy.

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Advanced Materials

New substances are engineered to improve electrical conduction and overall system efficiency.

Data Science & Engineering

Data-driven modeling is used to optimize the performance of complex industrial systems.

Smart Agriculture & Environment

Sustainable energy solutions are adapted to power modern farming and food production.

Urban Development

Infrastructure planning ensures that city grids and utilities meet the needs of growing populations.

Dive deeper into the groundbreaking research and innovative initiatives shaping the future at The University of Texas at Arlington.

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Energy & Industrial Applications