When buildings plan around their energy demands
In order to guarantee the security of supply of our future energy system, we need not only an expansion of renewable energies, but also sophisticated control mechanisms that efficiently manage production, distribution and consumption. Empa researchers have therefore developed a predictive control algorithm that optimizes energy management at building level but without compromising user comfort.
Energy planning in Ghana as a model for the future
Under the leadership of Empa scientist Mashael Yazdanie, an international research team is investigating ways to better plan for climate-resilient energy systems in the Global South. Focusing on the case study of Accra, the capital of Ghana, the multidisciplinary team expanded conventional energy system modeling approaches by incorporating a range of socio-techno-economic challenges, climate change impacts, and resilience metrics into their models. Their approaches are applicable worldwide to support widespread sustainable and resilient energy system transitions.
Buffering peak loads with hydrogen
The chilly winter days drive up electricity demand in the building sector – especially when heat pumps are being used. The "H2 districts" project supported by the Swiss Federal Office of Energy (SFOE) is investigating the potential of fuel cells in buildings to buffer peak loads for the grid on the coldest days of the year. An initial practical application of the concept at Empa will provide the data basis for this.
