Climate and energy: LIST researchers rise to the challenge

 This Thursday, June 4, the Environmental Research and Innovation (ERIN) department of the Luxembourg Institute of Science and Technology (LIST) welcomed representatives from the Subcommittee of the Commissions of the Economy and Environment of the Luxembourg Chamber of Duputies, who are in charge of preparing the debate on the political direction and action plan regarding climate and energy. The aim of the meeting was to present LIST’s current projects and discuss research perspectives in these two areas.

ERIN can claim expertise in both areas. In the field of energy, its activity focuses on the dynamic modelling and simulation of energy systems, the evaluation of innovative energy systems and the development of new assessment methods. Projects are carried out to predict the fluctuating production of photovoltaic energy and to better integrate it into the grid. These projects are carried out with, and financed by, actors in the energy sector at regional level (Esch-sur-Alzette with Sudstroum) and national level (Enovos Foundation). Other projects involve developing methods to optimise thermal heat management at the city level and evaluating the environmental impacts of building renovation scenarios.

Another important area of energy research ERIN is energy recovery from biomass. ERIN researchers are working on the optimisation of biogas processes for the production of energy and the use of organic material and fertilizers contained in the digestate. A fully equipped laboratory has been installed, as well as a vehicle for field tests. Training is also offered to help biogas plant operators in managing the process.

In the area of climate, ERIN is working on the effects of climate change on the water cycle, energy production (energy crops), and agriculture. It supports the Ministry of Sustainable Development and Infrastructures by representing it at the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) and providing scientific advice in the context of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), for which the 21st Conference of Parties will be held in Paris from 30 November to 11 December 2015 (COP21).

To learn more, visit the ERIN department pages