Welcome

I'm an energy systems researcher, power system modeler, and Senior Consultant at Current Energy Group. My work operates at the intersection of power systems engineering, mathematical optimization, and energy policy to address pressing challenges in grid decarbonization, climate resilience, and technology integration.

I hold a Ph.D. in Engineering and Public Policy from Carnegie Mellon University, where my research focused on electrical distribution grid optimization, multi-criteria decision analysis, and low-carbon grid planning.

Current Focus & Recent Work

  • Distribution Resilience & Outage Risk Modeling: Developing probabilistic risk frameworks and lifecycle benefit-cost models using feeder-level outage data, OpenDSS/CYME workflows, and EPRI ClimateREADi guidance to evaluate grid modernization portfolios (e.g., Green Mountain Power's Zero Outages Initiative).

  • Advanced DER Orchestration & Grid-Enhancing Technologies (GETs): Researching operational architectures for FAST-DERMS, flexible interconnection, voltage optimization, situational awareness, and automated FLISR capabilities to enable high-DER utility networks.

  • Large-Load & Data Center Grid Integration: Analyzing flexible interconnection frameworks, co-located generation, and tariff structures to accommodate rapid growth in data center demand within distribution and sub-transmission constraints.

  • Integrated System Planning: Supporting regulatory entities in facilitating DER adoption, non-wires alternatives, and resilience metrics within state electric system planning frameworks.

Selected Publications

Google Scholar Profile

  • Gautam, A., Grymes, J., Newman, A., Nock, D., & Pandey, A. (2025). Minimum-Cost Grid Distribution of Backup Power During Long-Duration Outages. Optimization and Engineering. [DOI: 10.1007/s11081-025-10029-6]

  • Gautam, A., Nock, D., & Pandey, A. (2024). Grid-Aware Tradeoff Analysis for outage mitigation microgrids at emerging Resilience Hubs. IEEE Transactions on Energy Markets, Policy and Regulation, 2(2), 186–199. [DOI: 10.1109/TEMPR.2024.3383369]

  • Abiodun, K., Gautam, A., Newman, A., Nock, D., & Pandey, A. (2022). The Role of Microgrids in Advancing Energy Equity Through Access and Resilience. INFORMS TutORials in Operations Research, 175–190. [DOI: 10.1287/educ.2022.0244]

Technical Expertise & Methods

Optimization & Modeling

Mathematical optimization (MILP, NLP, AC-OPF, SC-OPF) in Python and Julia

Power Systems & Grid Analysis

Three-phase power flow, distribution feeder modeling (OpenDSS, Gridlab-D), optimal power flow, infeasibility analysis, capacity expansion, grid-enhancing technologies, DER orchestration, hosting capacity analysis

Techno-Economic & Regulatory Frameworks

Benefit-cost analysis, flexible interconnection tariffs, distribution planning, regulatory testimony analysis

Let's Connect

I’m always open to connecting with fellow researchers, engineers, and practitioners working on the energy transition, grid resilience, and electricity policy and economics.