Student tackles island decarbonisation challenge

George Hammerton, 24, who graduated with a First-Class BEng (Hons) in Renewable Energy Engineering in July, developed a consultancy-style feasibility study examining whether diesel backup generation on the islands could be replaced through large-scale solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, energy storage and circular design strategies.

Using industry-standard software including PVsyst and MATLAB, George created a simulation framework to model solar generation, battery performance and grid operation during power outages. His findings revealed that renewable generation capacity alone is not enough to remove diesel dependence. Instead, energy storage resilience is the critical factor, with around 12 hours of usable battery storage required to maintain power during the longest outage scenarios.

The project highlights a key challenge facing island and grid-constrained communities working towards net-zero goals and offers insights that could be applied to renewable energy systems worldwide.

George's work was recognised at Solent University's Engineering Poster Day - an industry showcase for final-year engineering students - where he was awarded the Zestec Industry Excellence in Renewable Energy Engineering Prize in recognition of the quality and impact of his Final Major Project. Following this achievement, George has accepted a position as a Junior Solar Design Engineer with Zestec.

George says, "We're going through a major energy transition, with governments around the world working to decarbonise infrastructure. My project is about helping meet net-zero targets and finding practical solutions that support that transition."

Originally from Devon, George came to Solent University after working as a mechanical engineering apprentice, where he helped manufacture components for Formula One teams and major engineering projects. Passionate about contributing to the clean energy transition, he is now pursuing a career in renewable energy.

George's interest in engineering began at an early age. "When I was younger, I always loved gadgets, computers and experimenting with different types of technology. Over the years, that interest grew into a career path. Now I get to design, work with and develop technology as part of my job, which is amazing," he says.

Alongside his new role with Zestec, George will be starting an MSc in Sustainable Energy Technologies in September.

The thing he has loved most about Solent is its lecturers and the support provide. “The lecturers are very engaging and are always happy to answer questions. Their responses are fast and helpful, and the level of student engagement is excellent,” he says.

George credits the University's supportive learning environment for helping shape his future. "The best thing I've learned at Solent is to stay curious and be willing to share your ideas with lecturers, professors, and other students. By exchanging ideas and perspectives, you can learn from others, strengthen your own understanding, and continue building your knowledge.”

You can find out more about Solent’s career ready approach to engineering on our website.