Industry support for University energy spin off

A company set up by University of Adelaide experts has received industry support from a leading accelerator program for its innovative solutions to improve battery performance.

OptiGrid has been accepted into the EnergyLab climate solution accelerator program. The program has supported some of the most successful startups and climate technology small to medium enterprises in the country. 

OptiGrid Pty Ltd is a spin-off from the University of Adelaide set up by two PhD candidates Sahand Karimi and Trong Nam Dinh with support from co-founder Dr Ali Pourmousavi Kani, Senior Lecturer, School of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering.

“Translating academic knowledge into commercial products is vital for driving innovation and achieving real-world impact.”Dr Pourmousavi Kani

The company provides AI-enabled tools for large-scale battery operation in the National Electricity Market (NEM) that increases their revenue by optimising their operations.

“We have developed two products that help utility-scale battery operators, energy retailers and virtual power plants to maximise the potential of their assets,” said OptiGrid's CEO Sahand Karimi.

“OptiForecaster delivers accurate forecasts of wholesale electricity prices, and OptiBidder intelligently manages asset operation and market bidding.”

“OptiGrid recently spun out of the University of Adelaide and we are thrilled to join the 2024 EnergyLab accelerator program,” said Sahand.

“It will provide us with invaluable opportunities to expand our network in the energy industry, engage with experts, and optimise our strategies. This support will be crucial in commercialising our technology and successfully bringing it to market.

“As essential components of a renewable power grid, improved battery economics facilitate both faster and more widespread deployment in the grid.”

OptiGrid’s technology will help accelerate the retirement of coal plants and increase market competition, ultimately leading to lower energy prices for consumers.

“Practical research is the cornerstone of technological advancements,” said Dr Pourmousavi Kani.

“Translating academic knowledge into commercial products is vital for driving innovation and achieving real-world impact.”