CIGRE NGN: Discussion with Klemen Knez

CURRENT POSITION: Young Researcher at the Faculty of Electrical Engineering, University of Ljubljana (Oct 2023 – Present)
CIGRE WG: NGN Representative of Study Committee C6 – Active Distribution Systems and Distributed Energy Resources

What lead you to your present career or job?

Klemen: I was good at Math and Science in elementary school, so the only decision for me was between Electrical Engineering and Mechanical Engineering. Fortunately, I chose Electrical Systems Engineering, which offers many interesting challenges. During my studies, I started my research work at the Laboratory for Electrical Networks and Devices under the supervision of Prof. Dr. Boštjan Blažič, where I am now working as a young researcher in the field of distribution systems.

What are you working on now that would interest ELECTRA readers?

K.: Our NGN Slovenia group is a little over 10 years old, but it was in a bit of a slump at the beginning. In the last two years, we have started activities to:

• Introduce and promote the CIGRE community to students and young engineers.
• Bring the field of electrical power systems closer to younger colleagues who may not know what it means or what it can offer.
• Connect students and young engineers with each other and with employers.
• Motivate NGN members to write papers for domestic and international CIGRE conferences.

We are looking forward to welcoming new members and strengthening cooperation with NGN members worldwide.

What has been the biggest challenge with your work?

K.: The biggest challenge is navigating between the different tasks I encounter in my work. On one hand, I teach students and guide them in the preparation of their final projects, while on the other hand, I contribute to research or project work with various Slovenian and international partners.

What has been your biggest challenge balancing work and personal life?

K.: The biggest challenge is the daily commute between home and work, which is more than an hour long and involves many hectic drivers. Fortunately, I have a supportive management team that allows me to work in a hybrid arrangement, which often helps address this challenge.

How did you get involved in CIGRE?

K.: I first got involved with the CIGRE community in 2021, when I published a paper at the largest Slovenian CIGRE-CIRED conference and participated in a student competition. At the conference, I met many people, including dedicated members of the Slovenian National Committee (NC). Then, in 2023, I offered to take over the NGN Group, which I still lead today. I also organize and execute all the major events hosted by our NC.

What do you feel is CIGRE’s ‘added value’?

K.: One of the greatest opportunities an engineer can gain from the CIGRE community is networking, collaboration, and knowledge sharing, which can be valuable for both professional and personal growth.

Why would you recommend CIGRE membership to others?

K.: CIGRE brings together experts, engineers, researchers, and decision-makers from around the world. Members gain access to an international community where they can exchange knowledge, experiences, and solutions to pressing energy challenges. This helps expand professional networks and fosters collaborations beyond local or national borders. Another significant benefit of CIGRE membership is being at the forefront of discussions about the energy transition; integrating renewables, ensuring system stability, and developing sustainable solutions. By joining, one can directly contribute to shaping the future of the global power systems.

Where do you see yourself in 15 years?

K.: In 15 years, I see myself as a successful and leading engineer in the field of power systems. Whether this will be at a university or in another company, nobody knows.

Do you have one major goal or do you have a bucket list? Are you willing to share this information?

K.: My first goal is definitely to complete my PhD. However, the goal of my career is to contribute to the well-being of the entire community.

What would you like to see change in our industry in the future?

K.: I think our industry will move more decisively towards cleaner and more sustainable energy sources. I would like to see this transition be fair and ensure that electricity remains reliable and affordable. Smarter and more resilient grids should be developed, making full use of digital technologies to improve efficiency and protect against risks such as cyber threats. Greater integration of distributed energy resources, such as solar, battery energy storage, and microgrids, will help create a more flexible system. At the same time, we need to invest in developing a diverse and skilled workforce, ensuring knowledge transfer and giving opportunities to the next generation. Ultimately, I hope the future of our industry is defined by sustainability, resilience, and innovation that serves people and communities.

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