Administrative Divisions Al-Mustaqbal Energy Research Center
Under the patronage of the President of Al-Mustaqbal University, Professor Hasan Shaker Majdi , and the supervision of the Dean of the College of Engineering and Engineering Technologies, Assistant Professor Azhar Mohsen Abd, Engineer Rusul Abbas Alwan, Head of Sustainable Student Activities, organized a humanitarian donation campaign entitled "Engineering Hope for a Sustainable Future." The campaign was dedicated to a needy family in the village of Al-Jumah in Babil Governorate. This initiative falls within the framework of Future University s strategic direction to promote the principle of sustainability and social responsibility, which is one of the most important pillars of its work, alongside its academic and research mission. The campaign included equipping the beneficiary family with household furniture and a number of essential items, in addition to a large, comprehensive food basket containing various necessities for daily life, contributing to a decent life and enhancing family stability. Participating in the initiative were: Head of the Department of Mechanical Power Engineering Technology, Director of the Energy Research Center, Dr. Muhammad Maitham, and Engineer Ali. In addition, a distinguished group of students from the Mechanical Power Engineering Department contributed to the preparation, organization, and distribution of aid, confirming that students and faculty are partners in building a sustainable society based on solidarity and giving. Engineer Rusul Abbas emphasized that this campaign is part of a series of initiatives launched by the university to embody the concept of community sustainability, not only in the fields of education and scientific research, but also in serving the local community and supporting vulnerable and disadvantaged groups. She added, "Sustainability is not limited to resources and the environment alone, but also includes people, who are the primary focus of any development process. Therefore, we at Future University are keen to ensure that our initiatives are comprehensive, keep pace with community needs, and build bridges of trust and cooperation between the university and its citizens." This initiative was widely welcomed by the villagers, who appreciated this generous gesture, which reflects Future University s commitment to fulfilling its national and humanitarian role and affirms its commitment to its responsibilities.
On Sunday, September 7, 2025, the staff of the Energy Research Center – Al-Mustaqbal University participated in the international online workshop organized by the Continuing Education Center at Al-Mustaqbal University, entitled: “Air Pollution: Challenges and Solutions”, which was held at 9:00 p.m. Baghdad time. A group of distinguished professors and experts delivered lectures during the workshop, including: • Prof. Dr. Ibrahim Hosseiny Ibrahim – Menoufia University / Arab Republic of Egypt. • Expert Saidiya Faleh Hassoun – Director of “Together for Protecting Humans and the Environment” Association. • Prof. Dr. Mustafa Ahmed Rajab Al-Najjar – Middle Technical University. • Asst. Prof. Dr. Ammar Abdul-Kadhim – Al-Mustaqbal University. The discussion was moderated by Eng. Khalid Kazem Al-Salhi from Al-Mustaqbal University. The workshop highlighted the risks of air pollution and its health and environmental impacts, in addition to discussing the latest solutions and technologies to mitigate this global issue. The participation of the Energy Research Center staff comes as part of the Center’s efforts to strengthen international academic cooperation and engage with global research experiences, in line with the goals of sustainable development and environmental protection
Postgraduate Students Conduct a Research Project on Building Materials at Al-Mustaqbal Center for Energy Research The Al-Mustaqbal Center for Energy Research received postgraduate students from University of Al-Qasim/University of Al-Qadisiyah to carry out their research project in the center’s laboratories. This initiative was supported by Prof. Dr. Hasan Shaker Majdi, President of Al-Mustaqbal University, supervised by Assist. Prof. Dr. Azher Mohsen, Dean of the College of Engineering Technologies, and Dr. Salwan Obeid, Director of the Center, with the guidance of specialized professors. The project focuses on developing a new design of building materials that enhances the thermal insulation efficiency of walls and reduces heat gain in buildings, contributing to lower energy consumption and improved efficiency of sustainable buildings. This research activity reflects the commitment of Al-Mustaqbal University to supporting applied scientific research and encouraging students to provide innovative solutions in the fields of energy and sustainable engineering, in line with the goals of sustainable development in Iraq.
The solar industry has seen unprecedented progress with the development of Laser-blasted 'black metal', an innovative technology that processes laser metals to become very dark and has an unprecedented light absorption capacity, enabling solar cells to achieve up to 15 times higher efficiency than traditional surfaces. ⸻ 1. How does black metal technology work? The basic idea is to treat the metal surface with a laser to create a precise pattern of protrusions and microscopic channels, which traps light and reduces reflection. • These microstructures increase the absorption of solar rays by a massive percentage, even at low light levels. • This technology reduces the heat loss caused by light reflection, which increases the production of electricity per unit area of solar panels. Laboratory experiment: • The researchers used titanium and steel sheets, and laser processed them to form a deep black surface. • Measurements showed that energy absorption increased by almost 97% compared to ordinary metal. • Solar cells were tested in different light conditions, including cloudy lighting and industrial lighting, and retained the same high efficiency. ⸻ 2. Atomic composition of black metal • The laser produces mechanical and mental changes to the surface of the metal, including the formation of precision metal oxides. • This layer acts as a filter for light energy, absorbing different wavelengths of solar light, and converting it into electrical energy more efficiently. • The density of channels and patterns can be adjusted according to the type of metal and the purpose of use, whether for large plates and small appliances. 3. Environmental and economic benefits • Reduce costs: Increased energy efficiency means getting more electricity of the same size of the panels, which reduces the need to expand the installation area of panels. • Sustainability: Relying on more efficient materials reduces waste and increases the lifespan of solar panels. • Reducing carbon emissions: Every increase in renewable energy efficiency contributes directly to reducing dependence on fossil fuels and reducing polluting gases 4. Practical applications 1. Residential and commercial buildings: Installing ultra-efficient panels on roofs and roofs, reducing electricity consumption and increasing reliance on clean energy. 2. Electric and hybrid vehicles: Batteries can be charged while driving or parking with black metal on the roofs of cars. 3. Small and portable devices: running mobile phones, laptops, sensors, and small medical equipment with solar power, even in indoor lighting or Night 5- Future prospects • The researchers plan to expand the experiments to include various metals and geometric shapes of the surface, to achieve the maximum possible absorption of light. • The black metal is expected to be combined with two-faced solar cells and thin cells, to produce high-performance panels that combine high absorption, flexibility and light weight. • In the near future, this technology can be used in large solar power plants, smart buildings, vehicles, and mobile devices, to make solar energy more economical and effective
The solar energy industry is undergoing a radical transformation driven by the capabilities of artificial intelligence, which has become an indispensable element in optimizing energy production, reducing operational costs, and enhancing reliance on renewable sources. As we enter 2025, the pace of innovation linking AI to solar energy is accelerating, with advanced technologies such as predictive maintenance now relying on real-time data analysis from solar panels to detect faults before they occur, minimizing unexpected shutdowns and extending system lifespan. Smart production forecasting has also become more accurate thanks to machine learning models that utilize weather data and historical performance, helping grid operators manage supply and store surplus energy with high precision. One of the most prominent applications is aerial image analysis using drones, where computer vision algorithms detect dirt, misalignment, or surface defects that may affect performance—at speeds far exceeding traditional manual inspections. AI also enables the extraction of deep insights from big data, helping to understand solar energy usage patterns and analyze system efficiency across regions and timeframes, thereby supporting strategic decisions in distribution and development. Platforms like API4AI offer customized solutions based on computer vision, tailored to the local conditions of each project, such as light incidence angles, thermal distortions, or environmental characteristics. With the global shift toward renewable energy sources, solar power has emerged as one of the most vital solutions for achieving sustainable development and reducing dependence on fossil fuels. However, the advancement of this sector goes far beyond installing panels on rooftops—it requires the integration of advanced technologies like artificial intelligence, which is now revolutionizing energy efficiency and resource management. One of the key applications is predicting panel degradation, where drones equipped with image analysis algorithms detect micro-cracks or hotspots invisible to the human eye, helping extend panel lifespan and maintain optimal electricity generation. Smart solar tracking systems have also evolved to operate using self-learning algorithms that adjust panel angles in real time, responding to weather changes such as morning fog or light reflections, resulting in a significant increase in energy output compared to conventional systems. AI also plays an environmental role through drone-based monitoring of solar farms, where intelligent systems analyze images to identify plant and animal species in the area, allowing for accurate environmental impact assessments and biodiversity preservation planning. Moreover, AI enhances technician efficiency through interactive training platforms using smartphones or augmented reality, providing visual guidance or step-by-step instructions for troubleshooting, reducing reliance on field experts and improving repair speed and quality. In scientific research, the emergence of intelligent hypothesis generators—systems that analyze thousands of scientific papers and patents to propose new hypotheses for developing solar materials and cells—allows researchers to focus more on practical testing rather than lengthy theoretical reviews. The importance of self-learning smart grids is also growing, as they autonomously manage energy flow based on consumption and production data, deciding when to store energy in batteries, feed it into the grid, or even sell the surplus. This flexibility ensures grid stability and increases efficiency without costly infrastructure upgrades. Acoustic diagnostics for solar inverters have also been introduced, using sound sensors to detect subtle changes in operational noise, enabling early fault prediction and preventive maintenance that avoids sudden outages and reduces energy losses. To address the challenges of integrating multiple energy sources, hybrid integration systems have been developed to create forecasting centers capable of predicting solar and wind energy production simultaneously, then distributing it through optimized operational schedules, reducing supply fluctuations and enhancing grid reliability. On the residential level, small system owners can now rely on smart assistants via mobile apps to ask questions and receive accurate troubleshooting answers without direct technical support. Another practical innovation is the augmented reality assistant for panel installation, where technicians use tablets or smart glasses to view a 3D layout showing the exact placement and angle of each component, minimizing installation errors and ensuring efficiency from the first moment of operation. International collaboration in this field has become easier thanks to shared work platforms equipped with real-time translation, allowing research teams from different countries to exchange data, documents, and even hold meetings without language barriers. In cold climates, AI has helped develop smart heating systems for solar panels, where thermal cameras identify areas prone to freezing and activate heating only when necessary, reducing energy loss and ensuring continuous efficient operation. Users can also benefit from 3D roof modeling applications that allow them to photograph their homes and generate virtual models to determine the best panel placement, calculate quantity, and estimate costs instantly. To overcome weather variability, local cloud cover forecasting systems have been developed using satellite imagery and ground data to predict cloud movement with minute-level accuracy, giving grid operators better control over energy management. Finally, video-based diagnostics have emerged, where technicians record short clips of system issues that are automatically analyzed to generate reports identifying faults and optimal repair methods, saving time and creating valuable knowledge bases for training new personnel. Integrating artificial intelligence with solar energy is not merely an improvement in efficiency—it is a qualitative leap toward smarter, more reliable, and sustainable energy systems. These innovations not only help address technical and environmental challenges but also pave the way for achieving sustainable development goals and ensuring a cleaner, more efficient energy future. --- Prepared by :Esraa Mohammed Hassan
University of Babylon Students Implement a Project on Growing Plants under Solar Panels at Al-Mustaqbal Center for Energy Research The Al-Mustaqbal Center for Energy Research welcomed postgraduate students from the University of Babylon to carry out their applied research project inside the center’s laboratories, with the support of Prof. Dr. Hasan Shaker Majdi, President of Al-Mustaqbal University, and under the supervision of Assist. Prof. Dr. Azher Mohsen, Dean of the College of Engineering Technologies, and Dr. Salwan Obeid, Director of the Center. The project focuses on growing plants under solar panels to study the efficiency of the panels under different conditions and to investigate the effect of shading on plant growth, opening new prospects for integrating renewable energy with the agricultural sector.
Advanced technology like Japan, along with private companies in the United States, is developing solar energy technologies that could revolutionize the way we power the world. The idea is to install massive solar panels on cars, where the sun shines, and then convert this energy into solar waves or lasers that are transmitted wirelessly to special receiving stations on Earth, known as rectennas. These waves are then re-processed into electricity ready for use in homes, factories, and cities. Scientific and Technical Implementation • Continuous power around the clock: Satellites reach orbits where the sun shines constantly, so their electricity production is unaffected by night or cloud cover. • Powerful solar energy: Solar power in space is a clear potential and does not reach Earth through the air. • Reducing dependence on Earth: This technology does not require vast areas on Earth and is not weather-sensitive, which calls for attention to other projects. • Successful prototype: In 2023, the Caltech MAPLE system began transmitting ground-based power wirelessly from space to the first center. Older Countries and Entities • Japan (JAXA): Transmitting wireless electricity from outer space by 2025. • China: Including a full-scale solar-powered satellite by 2028. • The United Kingdom and Northrop Grumman (US): Developing space applications and requests. • Startups like Aetherflux: Exploring the use of energy for specific locations, such as disaster zones or areas identified by the disaster. Opportunities and Challenges Solar energy offers the opportunity to distribute electricity fairly and even in remote areas, eliminate carbon emissions, and achieve energy independence easily. However, there are significant challenges: • Dual-use potential: Energy technology can be converted to electrical applications. • Outer space: The increase in satellites could introduce space debris and massive interference with technological monitoring. • Adapting aircraft and lasers to the built environment. • The cost of establishing biodiversity stations.
Japan has adopted a traction technology based on piezoelectric tiles, which are smart, efficient tiles that convert electrical progress into energy. Working Time: This technology relies on special devices that generate electricity when subjected to pressure or vibration. As thousands of people walk daily over the magnificent, ever-increasing tracks in train stations or public spaces, their steps become renewable electricity. This energy is then stored in batteries or used directly to power lighting, electronic displays, or store files in microgrids. Examples from Japan: • At Shibuya Station in Tokyo, these tiles were installed in 2008 to generate all the energy needed for the massive trains, as well as display panels and interior lighting. • Similar projects have been implemented on other trains in the capital, positively impacting residents to maximize the benefits of progress. Environmental and Development Actions: This initiative represents a practical example of integrating technology into everyday life, and can be used to: • Those who rely on fossil fuels. • Carbon removal. • Resisting the idea of smart cities. The Future: This technology is expected to expand to include football stadiums, universities, airports, and major centers, including new horizons for smart energy sources in future cities.