Unicamp inaugurated the new facilities of Lepo (Power Electronics Laboratory), a complex focused on developing technologies for the energy transition.
The space, linked to FEEC (Faculty of Electrical and Computer Engineering), brings together three research centers: LESF-MV (Marcelo Villalva Photovoltaic Solar Energy Laboratory), LEEO (Wind Energy Systems Laboratory) and LEV (Vehicle Electrification Laboratory).
The building renovation involved an investment of approximately R$1 million in infrastructure and R$7 million in new equipment, which allowed for an expansion of the structure and the number of researchers. Lepo now has 96 members, including professors, postdoctoral fellows, master's and doctoral students, and has also opened up space for undergraduate research students.
According to Lepo's general coordinator, Professor Tárcio dos Santos Barros, the goal is to consolidate sustainable innovation in the energy conversion, storage, use, and generation stages. "Our focus is to develop solutions that bring research closer to the real demands of society and industry," he stated.
Currently, the laboratory conducts 12 projects in partnership with national and international companies and public agencies, totaling R$60 million.
During the inauguration ceremony, Dean Paulo César Montagner highlighted the complex's strategic role. "It's great to see young professors leading major projects and valuing the work of their predecessors. It's extremely encouraging to see this group working at the cutting edge of knowledge in an area essential to the future of the planet," he said.
Professor Pedro highlighted the progress of wind energy research: "Wind energy continues to expand strongly, now with the start of offshore projects that have their own laboratory, a milestone in Brazil for research and development in the sector. And students are a key player in this."
Professor Marcelo Vinicius de Paula highlighted Lepo's contribution to electric mobility. "These renovations will enable new testing and certifications, in addition to directing research toward the needs of the national industry," he stated.
For Professor Ana Maria Frattini Fileti, Provost of Research, the new space expands the possibilities for collaboration with the manufacturing sector. "For a country seeking autonomy to renew its industrial park, this laboratory has enormous potential for partnerships with industries. The entire energy transition sector can benefit from the research conducted here."
Closing the ceremony, Professor Tárcio highlighted the social impact of the improvements. "With these innovations, we can deliver results closer to what society needs. We are combining human talent and infrastructure."
With this expansion, Lepo consolidates its position as one of the country's leading renewable energy research and development centers, reinforcing Unicamp's commitment to a more sustainable energy future integrated with national industry.
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