Opening and Welcome Reception
The Welcome Reception will take place at PROTO Invention Factory at 19:30 on June 4, 2025. The venue is located 2 km away from the conference hotel and can be reached in 35 minutes on foot, 15 minutes on bus nr. 73, or 7 min on a BOLT taxi from the venue hotel.
The Welcome Reception is supported by the Current/OS Foundation – an independent, non-profit global partnership dedicated to promoting Direct Current (DC) electrical safety and enhancing energy resilience to ensure reliable electricity access for all.
PROTO Invention Factory uniquely combines the thrills of virtual reality with the historical charm of the former Noblessner Foundry building, a remarkable industrial landmark in Tallinn. Visitors are invited to step into a fascinating world where science meets imagination, offering interactive exhibits powered by cutting-edge technology. Experience exciting virtual adventures, pilot historic vehicles, and engage with various hands-on installations designed to captivate curious minds of all ages. PROTO is a place where creativity, innovation, and history unite, making it an ideal setting for an unforgettable welcome reception.
Please ensure you bring the corresponding ticket from your conference package to gain entry to this exclusive event.
Those arriving later on June 4 can claim their ticket at the reception desk when entering the venue.

Gala Dinner
Gala Dinner will be organized in "Seaplane Harbour" - Estonian Maritime Museum - at 19:30 on June 5, 2025. The venue is located 2 km away from the conference hotel and can be reached in 30 minutes on foot, 15 minutes on bus nr. 73, or 5 min on a BOLT taxi from the venue hotel.
Don't be late, or you will miss the opportunity to visit inside the 89-year-old mine-laying diesel submarine Lembit that sank seven ships in World War II. It will be open for the Gala Dinner attendees between 19:30 and 20:30.
The most exciting maritime museum in Europe is located in the Seaplane Harbour. Located in the unique and historic seaplane hangar, its interactive exhibition includes about 200 authentic items on display: a submarine from the mid-1930s called Lembit, a century-old icebreaker Suur Tõll, a seaplane called Short 184, remains of the oldest ship found in Estonia, and much more. The museum and the Seaplane Hangar have been recognized with a number of awards: Estonia’s Most Tourist-Friendly Museum 2012, Europa Nostra Grand Prix 2013, Special Commendation from the European Museum of the Year 2014, and several others.
You MUST present the corresponding ticket from your conference package to gain entry to the social event.

PELS S&YP and WiE Luncheon - June 5
Instead of a simple lunch, ALL attendees can enjoy an inspiring luncheon hosted by the IEEE Power Electronics Society's Student & Young Professionals (S&YP) and Women in Engineering (WiE) Committees at 12:30 on June 5.
This event brings together the S&YP and WiE communities for a vibrant exchange of ideas, mentorship, and networking. It's a platform to connect with peers, gain career insights, and celebrate the vital role of diversity and inclusion in advancing power electronics.
We’re proud to feature two outstanding speakers who exemplify leadership and innovation:
Martina Josevski, Regional Leader, Eaton Research Labs
Title: Career Paths in Corporate Research: How does it compare to academia?
Abstract:
You are a PhD student in power electronics or energy systems, you enjoy research and wonder how research looks like in a corporate environment? This talk will provide useful insights into potential research career paths in a global power management company like Eaton – highlighting the similarities and differences in daily work. Hiring PhD graduates is key to drive forward innovation and develop emerging technologies in corporate research, such as DC conversion and distribution. This is one of the reasons why companies establish their R&D teams in the vicinity of research/university campuses. This aspect will be further elaborated on the example of the research campus Flexible Elektrische Netze (FEN) at the RWTH Aachen University campus, where Eaton has established its German R&D team. Besides hiring exceptional talent, it will be explained why close collaboration with academia is of key importance. Finally, the speaker will provide a personal view on the role and relevance of diversity in research teams in both, academia and corporate research. She will highlight the clear benefits and discuss some of the challenges, and eventually explain how Eaton supports diversity.Katharina Hetzenecker, Group Leader, RWTH Aachen University
Title: Choosing a PhD in Power Electronics
Abstract:
This presentation discusses the journey of pursuing a PhD in Power Electronics, contrasting initial expectations with actual experiences. It explores the benefits of engaging in scientific research and highlights the opportunities for development and collaboration. The talk also reflects on my experiences as a group leader, offering perspectives on leadership and teamwork in a research setting.
A heartfelt thank-you to the S&YP and WiE Committees for championing this initiative!

DC Pilots Luncheon - June 6
The DC Pilots Luncheon will replace the usual lunch on the last day of the conference. It will offer a focused forum for technically minded attendees to engage with industry representatives who present real-world direct current (DC) installations and pilot projects. Join us at 12:30 on June 6 to learn about the latest developments.
Through a series of concise, practice-driven talks, participants will gain insight into the implementation of real DC microgrids in different sectors. Presentations will highlight system architectures, operational data, integration challenges, and performance outcomes. This luncheon is designed for professionals and researchers seeking a deeper understanding of how DC technologies are transitioning from concept to deployment — and what that means for the future of power electronics and energy systems.
Featured talks include:
✦ Ahmad Makkieh (Schneider Electric, UK): DC Microgrids Power the Way – Scaling Up Renewables Without Shaking the Grid Down
✦ Marco Stieneker (Maschinenfabrik Reinhausen, DE): DC Microgrids for Charging Infrastructure – PV2V
✦ Stefan Lidstrom (Comsys, SE): Direct Current Microgrids Installed in Scandinavia
✦ Laurens Mackay (DC Opportunities, NL): Bipolar 350/700V DC Microgrids
