Smarter Buildings, Lower Bills: The Power of Whole-Building Integration

Modern residential building with energy-efficient features and solar panels.

A new CLTC study demonstrates that integrating building systems under a centralized Building Automation System (BAS) can significantly reduce energy use. A team led by CLTC Director of Engineering Keith Graeber conducted field research at “The Barn,” a two-story, 2,068-square-foot building on the UC Davis campus.

EEI Experts to Lead Free Industrial Energy Efficiency Training

UC Davis Energy Efficiency Institute speaker presenting to audience.

As industries look to lower costs and stay competitive, improving energy efficiency is more important than ever. EEI Faculty Director Kelly Kissock and his team will present a free, three-part webinar series focused on practical strategies to reduce energy waste and improve operational efficiency in industrial facilities.

Shedding Light on Solar Panel Shade

Researcher examining solar panel shading effects in a greenhouse setting.

A new study from the UC Davis Wild Energy Center examines how solar installations influence microclimates and plant growth on former agricultural land. Researchers spent a year collecting data at the UC Davis “Solar Farm,” a 16-megawatt ground-mounted solar power plant owned by university and located immediately south of campus.

UC Davis Energy News – January 2025

California renewable energy infrastructure with solar panels and landscapes.

Examining Energy Poverty and Climate Vulnerability in the Global South A recent study analyzes the relationship between energy poverty and climate vulnerability in the Global South, emphasizing the implications of rising temperatures and extreme weather events on resource-constrained populations. The research evaluates disparities in energy access, particularly in informal settlements, and considers the effectiveness of […]

Storing Carbon in Buildings Could Help Address Climate Change

Building with carbon storage capabilities for climate impact.

Research conducted by the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, the Center for Energy and Environment, and the UC Davis Western Cooling Efficiency Center delves into the benefits of aerosol envelope sealing techniques for existing residential buildings.

UC Davis Energy News – November/December 2024

UC Davis Energy Efficiency Institute team outside a house.

New Video: Efficiency Meets Safety in Novel Food Pasteurization System Researchers from the UC Davis Departments of Biological and Agricultural Engineering, Food Science and Technology, and the Western Cooling Efficiency Center are exploring novel methods to enhance food safety and sustainability through the utilization of waste heat. A new video details their efforts to develop a system […]

A Clean Energy Boost for Multitasking Lands

Solar panels installed over wildflowers and native plants.

Research conducted by the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, the Center for Energy and Environment, and the UC Davis Western Cooling Efficiency Center delves into the benefits of aerosol envelope sealing techniques for existing residential buildings.