Dado works on questions no one has the answers to yet

A big part of finding effective solutions is collaboration. The eight-person team Dado works in needs to balance technology, economics, environmental considerations, business models and permitting processes. This makes the work both challenging and varied. Together, the team brings broad expertise in energy systems, electricity grids, energy markets, optimisation, modelling and strategic analysis. Working as a part of the team demands being open and responsive. Personal prestige is not part of creating innovation together.

Dado says: “I like the fact that there isn’t a set answer. A conversation or a meeting can open up new perspectives and lead to solutions that are much better than anything any of us could have come up with on our own.”

Since completing his master’s thesis in 2019, he has taken on increasingly complex questions within Vattenfall’s research and development operations. Today, as a senior engineer in Vattenfall’s R&D department, he leads a programme in energy systems analysis – bringing together innovation, sustainability and the energy challenges of the future. “Ultimately, our work is about helping Vattenfall make better decisions for the future. We look at what the next big questions might be in the years ahead and how Vattenfall can best position itself in the energy landscape of the future.”

For Dado, innovation is more than just coming up with ideas. It is equally about turning those ideas into solutions that create real value. To get there, Dado and his team explore different approaches by testing hypotheses, building prototypes and running pilots, moving forward step by step.

Dado: "Innovation is rarely about a single breakthrough. It’s a process where every test, insight and experience helps make the solution better and more relevant. That could mean exploring how Sweden’s energy system should develop to meet a significant increase in electricity demand, or identifying which investments in energy production, storage and electricity grids will create the greatest long-term value."

If Dado was to highlight one project in particular, it would be one focusing on energy solutions for future urban districts. Together with Uppsala Municipality and other partners, Vattenfall has explored how different energy flows can be combined as new homes and workplaces are developed. The team has developed potential system solutions and assessed their technical, economic and environmental sustainability. As a new urban district can take several decades to develop, it may take time before the full benefits become visible. However, the analyses can still influence important decisions as early as the planning stage.

Dado: "We can provide municipalities and property companies with a basis for making decisions about energy. This can help make new developments both more competitive and economically sustainable."

A culture that helps you develop

Dado has worked at Vattenfall for seven years. Two of the reasons he has stayed are the culture and the opportunities to develop. He describes a strong sense of community, where colleagues are curious, take responsibility and deliver on their commitments. He and his team also collaborate with colleagues across areas such as production, operations and sales. What brings them together is the opportunity to contribute to an energy system that society as a whole depends on.

Dado: "Energy is needed everywhere – in industries, schools, offices and people’s homes. I work for an organisation that makes a difference to both the environment and society. That makes my work feel meaningful, and I’m proud of what we achieve."