Lab Introduction

Welcome to the Power Electronics for Advanced Renewable Systems Laboratory (PEARS Lab) at National Taiwan University, Electrical Engineering.

Mission Statement

The mission of the PEARS Lab is to transform renewable and clean-energy systems through innovations in power electronics and control to enable a technologically-advanced and clean-powered global society. Our focus is to explore and realize creative solutions to problems for renewable energy systems, electric vehicles, electric transportation, smart grid interaction, and more. We strive to create an inclusive research environment by levering diversity and equity as core values.

Research Interests

  • Power Electronics (DC-DC Converters and Inverters) for Photovoltaic Systems
  • Power Electronics on Flexible Substrates for Wearables and Soft Robotics
  • Photovoltaic Cell/Panel Electric and Thermal Modeling
  • Modeling and Simulation of Converters and Controller Design
  • Engineering Education (see Prof. Kim’s YouTube Channel)

Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

At the PEARS Lab, we are committed to fostering an inclusive and equitable research environment where diversity is recognized as a fundamental strength. We believe that power electronics should be accessible to all. We strive to break down barriers and bridge gaps to high-quality education and research.

Prof. Kim is a dedicated advocate for women in engineering and a long-time ally of the LGBTQ+ community. She actively promotes inclusive practices to ensure that individuals from diverse backgrounds have opportunities to contribute, grow, and thrive in power electronics research. We recognize that diverse perspectives lead to more creative, effective, and resilient engineering solutions.

Diversity Statistics

Diversity is multidimensional, and while no single metric can fully capture its scope, we track the representation of women and international graduate students in our lab as one indicator of our ongoing commitment to inclusivity. The statistics recorded since 2020 (after the PEARS lab moved to National Taiwan University) are shown below.

Commitment to Sustainability

At the PEARS Lab, we recognize the urgency of addressing climate change and are committed to reducing our environmental impact. In addition to our research on renewable energy, clean transportation, and high-efficiency power conversion, we actively integrate sustainability into our daily operations. We aim to minimize our collective carbon footprint while advancing technological solutions for a more sustainable future.

Sustainable Practices at the PEARS Lab:

  1. Flight-Related CO₂ Emissions Tracking
    Air travel is a significant contributor to individual carbon footprints. Since 2024, we have been tracking the estimated CO₂ emissions from lab-related flights for conferences and meetings. Whenever possible, we prioritize attending conferences closer to Taiwan to reduce travel-related emissions.
  2. Climate Change Mitigation Initiatives
    To help mitigate our environmental impact, Prof. Kim personally purchases a tree-planting certificate or makes a donation to climate-related nonprofit to help offset emissions generated by lab’s air travel. In 2024, offsets were acquired through Ecosia, which collaborates with verified tree-planting organizations to ensure long-term sustainability. In 2025, a donation was made to Future Cleantech Architects, climate innovation think tank nonprofit organization.
  3. Use of Refurbished and Second-Hand Equipment
    Manufacturing new equipment often has a significant environmental impact. To minimize waste and resource consumption, we prioritize sourcing refurbished or second-hand equipment from local vendors before considering new purchases.
  4. Sustainable Lab Meals
    Reducing meat consumption is a meaningful way to lower carbon emissions. The PEARS Lab ensures that all lab meals include plant-based options, and our annual PEARS Lab Reunion is held at Fruitful Foods, a vegetarian buffet, to promote more sustainable dining choices.

Through these and future initiatives, we continuously strive to reduce our environmental footprint while fostering innovation in sustainable energy solutions. Our commitment to sustainability extends beyond research—it is a guiding principle in how we operate and contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable future.