The Resilient and Renewable Grid: Microgrid Systems

Gwen Holdmann serves as Associate Vice Chancellor for Research, Innovation and Industry Partnerships at the University of Alaska Fairbanks, where she manages UAF's innovation and technology transfer programs while maintaining research affiliations with the Alaska Center for Energy and Power (ACEP), which she founded. After earning her BS in Physics from Bradley University and MS in Energy Engineering and Policy from UAF, she established herself as a leading expert in arctic energy systems through groundbreaking work including designing and constructing Alaska's only operating geothermal power plant at Chena Hot Springs. Her research spans multiple areas including energy policy, small-scale nuclear energy, microgrids, and renewable energy transitions in remote communities. Beyond her academic achievements, she has been inducted into the Alaska Innovator's Hall of Fame, selected as Alaska's Top Forty Under 40, and served as an Arctic Fulbright Scholar. Her current work focuses on advancing energy innovation through strategic partnerships between UAF, industry, and the State of Alaska, while leading initiatives in nuclear energy awareness and sustainable energy transitions. Living off-grid with her family and 35 dogs, she embodies the practical application of her expertise, utilizing a combination of solar, wind, battery storage, and traditional energy sources. Her adventurous spirit extends beyond energy innovation - she has completed both the Yukon Quest and Iditarod sled dog races, demonstrating her deep connection to Alaska's unique challenges and opportunities.