Focus Areas:
Degree Program: PhD
Entered Program: Fall 2022
Expected Graduation: Fall 2026
Dissertation topic: A Holistic Approach to Wind Energy Development
Research statement: Recognizing wind energy’s crucial role in the global clean energy transition, Natalia’s research contributes to the optimization of wind power deployment and understanding its social impacts in three phases. Firstly, by investigating the drought as a driver of wind power development in agricultural areas in the U.S, secondly, analyzing the impacts of climate variability on energy production in the U.S, and thirdly, evaluating the social impacts of wind projects on surrounding communities in South Africa. Natalia’s research aims to provide practical insights at a national and global level for both academic understanding and industry strategies, informing more effective renewable energy policies, optimizing wind farm siting and operation, and ensuring equitable and sustainable development for communities embracing clean energy solutions.
Adviser: Dr. Johanna Engström
Educational Background
- MPhil. in Geomatics, University of Cape Town, 2020
- B.A./B.S. in Land Surveying, University of Malawi, 2014