Young researchers presented their various publications on materials, renewable integration, and solar thermal processes, reaffirming the role of the SERC plenary as a platform for advanced human capital development and international scientific collaboration.

Solar energy was once again at the forefront of the recent SERC Chile plenary, where ten doctoral students from the center’s partner universities presented their research to national and international academics and researchers. The event not only allowed for the dissemination of the most recent advances in solar science and technology but also consolidated the gathering as a key space for training new generations of scientists in the country.

The projects covered strategic topics such as storage materials, the integration of renewable energies into power systems, thermochemical processes, new solar receiver designs, and the optimization of solar thermal plants. Three of the works—by Karla Montenegro Rosero (UC), Juan Carlos Acosta Tapia (UA), and Miguel Cuevas Lara (UCH)—were distinguished as Works of Excellence, highlighting their contribution to the frontier of knowledge in solar energy and their potential application in national technological development.

The director of SERC Chile, Rodrigo Palma, emphasized the impact of these initiatives and their contribution to Chile becoming a solar nation. “This research is not only an academic exercise but an engine of innovation for Chile and the region. They represent the capacity to generate frontier knowledge with real impact, paving the way towards a more sustainable and resilient energy system. In this sense, the SERC plenary is a unique platform to make this talent visible and connect science with the country's major challenges.”

Recognized as Works of Excellence were the research studies of: Karla Montenegro Rosero (UC); Juan Carlos Acosta Tapia (UA); and Miguel Cuevas Lara (UCH).

The SERC Chile 2025 plenary brought together more than 80 researchers and established itself as a space for scientific exchange and collaboration between national universities, international institutions, and strategic stakeholders in the energy sector. With these initiatives, SERC reaffirms its commitment to strengthening advanced human capital, contributing to energy security, and positioning Chile as a global leader in solar research.

Below, you can view images from the 2025 SERC Chile Doctoral Students Meeting, held in Santiago this past August 8th.