On Thursday, 23 February, Professor Joachim Holbøll gave his inaugural lecture “High Voltage Research and Polytechnical Educations – Relics of the Past or Future Necessities?” Among the audience were colleagues, present and former students as well as business partners. Professor Joachim Holbøll has been with DTU since 1989 and was appointed Professor at DTU, Department of Electrical Engineering on 1. June 2016.
Head of Department, Kristian Stubkjær welcomed the audience and introduced Professor Joachim Holbøll as the departments “expert in high power”, covering much more than high voltage research.
In his lecture Professor Joachim Holbøll addressed several research areas within High Voltage. Emphasized were activities within lightning protection, a traditional discipline applied to the newest wind turbines, and dynamic rating of components as essential for power system optimization. The question then was asked whether there is a future for these old fashioned polytechnic disciplines in particular as seen in the light of the ongoing digitalization, also coming within electrical energy.
The answer was quite clear. Yes, there is a future for High Voltage engineering. Competences are continuously, extended through research and applied to the new challenges. As for the polytechnics the message was quite similar. Yes, there is a future for polytechnics, in new shapes, ready to meet the emerging future needs within the energy society. By that conclusion Professor Joachim Holbøll highlighted that the traditional master educations in electrical energy systems should be supported by a new fundament at bachelor level, which include for example digital competences and innovation skills.
Dedicated teacher and lecturer
At the following reception Professor, Jacob Østergaard, Head of Department at Center for Electric Power and Energy recognized Professor Joachim Holbøll for not only being a dedicated teacher and researcher but also someone who goes the extra mile making things happen.
