Prof. Dr. Wankai Yang | New Type Power Transmission Technology | Best Researcher Award
Research Engineer at China Electric Power Research Institute, China
Prof. Dr. Wankai Yang is a distinguished electrical power systems engineer with an esteemed career spanning over four decades. He has played a pivotal role in the advancement of high-voltage direct current (HVDC) transmission systems and flexible alternating current transmission systems (FACTS) in China. A leading figure at the China Electric Power Research Institute (CEPRI), Prof. Yang has led and contributed to the commissioning of more than 30 critical national and international energy transmission projects, showcasing technical mastery and visionary leadership. His dedication to power engineering and sustained contributions have earned him a respected place in both academic and professional spheres.
Profile
Education
Prof. Yang’s academic journey began at North China Electric Power University in Baoding, where he completed his B.S. in Electric Power Engineering in 1982. Demonstrating early promise, he continued his postgraduate studies at the same university and obtained an M.S. degree in Electric Power Engineering in 1993. To further deepen his expertise in electrical systems, he pursued and was awarded a Ph.D. in Electric Power System and Automation from the same institution in 1998, now based in Beijing. His academic background laid a strong foundation for his future work in HVDC systems, FACTS, and other innovative technologies in power transmission.
Experience
Prof. Yang began his professional career at CEPRI in June 1998, where he worked until 2022 as a research engineer specializing in HVDC control and protection system analysis. During this tenure, he took command or was actively involved in the commissioning of over 30 HVDC projects, encompassing traditional, flexible, and ultra-high voltage (UHV) DC systems. Additionally, he contributed to the commissioning of three ultra-high voltage AC projects, reinforcing his reputation as a trusted expert in advanced power system integration. Since 2023, Prof. Yang has redirected his research focus toward FACTS, Modular Multilevel Converter (MMC) HVDC, and new types of power transmission technologies, further establishing his relevance in future-grid innovations.
Research Interest
Prof. Yang’s research interests lie primarily in the areas of high-voltage and ultra-high-voltage DC power transmission systems, flexible HVDC, FACTS, and MMC technologies. He is particularly interested in the control, protection, and reliability of modern transmission systems that support the growing complexity of power grids in the context of renewable integration and smart grid development. He continues to explore intelligent solutions that enhance system stability, efficiency, and resilience under dynamic operating conditions. His forward-looking approach has made significant impacts in optimizing China’s energy infrastructure.
Award
Prof. Yang has been the recipient of six provincial and ministerial-level science and technology awards, underscoring his consistent excellence in applied research and engineering practice. These awards recognize his innovative approaches to HVDC system design, his leadership in national engineering projects, and his contribution to advancing China’s capacity in high-voltage engineering. He is a fellow member of the Chinese Society for Electrical Engineering and also serves as a member of IEEE Power & Energy Society (PES), reflecting his standing in the global academic and technical communities.
Publication
Prof. Yang has an extensive publication record, with over 70 peer-reviewed papers on power systems and HVDC technology. He has also participated in the compilation and publication of 15 monographs in the field, contributing significantly to academic and professional training. Additionally, he holds more than 10 Chinese invention patents, many of which have been implemented in national infrastructure projects.
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Yang, W., Lu, Z., Xu, Y., Qiao, G. “MMC-HVDC System High Frequency Resonance Suppression Method Based on Capacitive Filter,” Conference Paper. This study explores innovative methods for resonance suppression in Modular Multilevel Converter HVDC systems, offering practical solutions to enhance system stability.
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Yang, W., Cao, H., Liu, J., Song, Y., Dai, F. “The Frequent Commutation Failure and Solutions in UHVDC Inverter Station,” Conference Paper. The work investigates recurring commutation failures in UHVDC systems and proposes actionable engineering solutions.
Conclusion
Prof. Dr. Wankai Yang’s illustrious career is marked by technical brilliance, pioneering research, and strategic leadership in electric power engineering. His work has significantly contributed to the development and modernization of China’s power transmission systems. Through his numerous publications, patents, and national project involvements, Prof. Yang has demonstrated a unique capacity to bridge theoretical innovation and industrial application. His lifelong dedication to advancing the field, educating future engineers, and shaping national power policy makes him an ideal candidate for prestigious recognition in the form of a professional award.