Energy efficiency program to start at Aalto University
21.06.2012
Aalto Energy Efficiency Research Programme (AEF) has been established to strengthen energy research and teaching at Aalto University. The aim of the programme is to launch ambitious interdisciplinary research projects that could produce solutions that significantly improve energy efficiency, with a wide scope. In the Aalto University strategy, energy was included from the very beginning, and all Aalto schools study and teach energy issues.
The first three projects for the AEF programme have been selected. They will be launched in autumn 2012.
The SAGA project (Smart Control Architectures for Smart Grids) focuses on smart grids. The project develops control and monitoring architecture, where total energy efficiency can be maximised and the reliability and safety of the energy efficiency system integrating renewable energy sources can be ensured.
The aim of the Light Energy - Efficient and Safe Traffic Environments project is to improve the energy efficiency of transport environments and outdoor lighting while maintaining a good level of road safety and taking into account the needs of road users. The project studies the optimal realisation of lighting and develops smart control of lighting by considering the visibility and safety of road users, the traffic situation, and environmental and economic factors.
The MOPPI project (Molecular Thin Film Engineering for Building Integrated Photonics and Process Industry) performs material-level energy efficiency research which may result in 15% less energy used for lighting, producing more efficient new materials and catalysts for solar panels, and producing building-integrated solar panels for more affordable use of solar power.
– Finding sustainable energy solutions is one of the greatest challenges of the human race. In the next 20–30 years, energy-saving and the intensification of energy production and use will form the most potential areas for affecting the sufficiency of energy and reducing adverse impacts. Research is needed in the versatile development of both energy technologies and the operating environment, says Ilkka Niemelä, Deputy President of Aalto University.
The Aalto University funding for these three first projects is estimated to rise to EUR 5.3 million in four years. The "Matti Pursula Chair" professorship is directed at the programme's domain by Aalto University.
The AEF is planned to continue until 2019 and a new application round opens in the spring 2013. For more information, please see the website: energyefficiency.aalto.fi.
