PhD Studentship - Advancing Retail Energy Markets for a Net-Zero Future

Research theme: Energy Markets and Digital Innovation

How to apply: uom.link/pgr-apply-2425

No of positions: 1

This project is fully funded and open to UK, EU, and Overseas applicants. The successful candidate will receive a stipend based on the UKVI rate (£19,237 for 2024/25) and tuition fees will be paid.

The transition to a decentralised, flexible, and consumer-driven retail energy market is a crucial element of achieving net-zero emissions. This project will explore market design, pricing mechanisms, and the role of digital technologies in enhancing competition, efficiency, and consumer participation in energy markets. The research will assess how retail energy structures can integrate renewable generation, demand-side response, and decentralised energy resources (DERs) while ensuring affordability and system reliability.

A key focus will be on dynamic pricing models and real-time energy trading, analysing how mechanisms such as time-of-use tariffs, peer-to-peer (P2P) trading, and demand aggregation can enhance grid flexibility and empower consumers. The study will also evaluate the role of regulatory frameworks and energy suppliers in shaping competitive markets that align with decarbonisation targets.

Additionally, the project will investigate how data analytics, AI, and digital platforms can enhance market efficiency, allowing for more transparent pricing, automated demand-side management, and optimised energy trading. Through simulation and modelling, this PhD will provide insights into how retail energy markets can transition toward a consumer-centric, low-carbon energy future while maintaining security of supply and economic viability.

This interdisciplinary project will bridge market analysis with quantitative energy system modelling, offering valuable insights to energy suppliers, regulators, and policymakers on designing efficient, fair, and net-zero-aligned retail energy markets.

The successful candidate will collaborate with industry partners, policymakers, and energy suppliers through The Tyndall Centre and Energy Beacon, developing models and insights that enhance the efficiency, flexibility, and consumer engagement of retail energy markets. The research will contribute to improving market structures, optimising pricing models, and leveraging digital innovations to create a more competitive, low-carbon retail energy sector. Additionally, the study will explore how demand-side participation and decentralised energy trading can accelerate the transition to a net-zero energy system while maintaining affordability and market stability.

Seeking a driven individual with:

• Bachelor’s degree in Energy Economics, Electrical Engineering, Data Science, Energy Engineering, or a related field.
• Master’s degree or equivalent postgraduate qualification is desirable.
• Knowledge of retail electricity markets, energy trading, or market regulations.
• Experience in energy market modelling, optimisation, or demand response mechanisms.
• Proficiency in Python, R, MATLAB, or energy simulation tools such as PLEXOS.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret market trends, pricing structures, and regulatory impacts.

To apply please contact the main supervisor, Prof Aoife Foley - aoife.foley@manchester.ac.uk. Please include details of your current level of study, academic background and any relevant experience and include a paragraph about your motivation to study this PhD project.

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