UC Davis Researchers Shine at CalFlexHub Symposium
On November 3, the California Load Flexibility Research and Development Hub (CalFlexHub) held its second annual (and first in-person) symposium, bringing together experts from various sectors to discuss how highly dynamic electricity prices and load flexibility technologies can help California achieve its grid decarbonization goals. Among the distinguished speakers were three researchers from UC Davis who presented their insights and findings.
Subhrajit Chakraborty, WCEC Research and Development Engineer, showcased results from implementing load flexibility on a multi-function heat pump system which can enable home electrification at lower costs. He was a panelist for an equity focused session in the symposium and described his plans for evaluating the heat pump load flexibility technology in disadvantaged communities as next steps.
Caton Mande, also from WCEC, discussed his research in developing a cloud-based supervisory model predictive control (MPC) system for residential heat pumps. His talk focused on connecting the supervisory MPC to the CalFlexHub price server to promote load flexibility in response to hourly electricity prices, and potential trade-offs from the interplay of behavior, on-site thermal storage, and bill cost versus comfort.
Sarah Outcault, EEI Market Transformation Research Director, presented her team’s research on stakeholder perspectives of dynamic electricity prices and load flexible technologies. The findings have implications for developing policies and load flexible technologies that account for stakeholder priorities, constraints, and needs.
These UC Davis researchers added valuable perspectives to the CalFlexHub Symposium, which serves as a platform for generating and sharing information about dynamic prices and load flexible technologies. Their dedication to advancing sustainable solutions is crucial in California’s journey toward a more reliable and greener energy grid.
Prioritizing People: Ethical Imperatives in Energy Research
The field of energy research has made remarkable strides, ushering in innovative technologies and policies that shape our future. But beneath the progress lies an ethical responsibility that cannot be overlooked: protecting the people who participate in this research.
CLTC Secures $200,000 in Funding for Color Lab
The CLTC announce a substantial joint investment of $200,000 from Toyota Boshoku America and Seoul Semiconductor, igniting the next phase of The Color Lab project. Led by the CLTC in partnership with the Center for Mind and Brain at UC Davis, this pioneering initiative explores the impact of discrete color in lighting on human mood and stress.
It’s Recruitment Season for Next Year's EGG Students!
Is someone you know passionate about shaping the future of sustainable energy? The Energy Graduate Group (EGG) at UC Davis is thrilled to announce the commencement of our recruitment season for the next academic year!
EGG was established in 2017 with the mission of equipping future leaders to tackle the energy challenges of the 21st century. Our program offers master’s and PhD degrees in Energy Systems, focusing on Energy Science & Technology and Energy Policy & Management. With more than 50 distinguished faculty members from throughout the UC Davis campus, our students have the opportunity to engage in groundbreaking interdisciplinary research.
As we seek individuals who are dedicated to driving positive change in the field of sustainable energy, we encourage you to explore EGG and share this opportunity with potential candidates. If you or someone you know possesses the drive and commitment to make a difference, we invite you to apply.
The priority application deadline is January 15, so don’t miss this chance to become a part of our vibrant and innovative community. Join us in our quest to shape a sustainable energy future for California, the U.S., and the world!
Learn more about EGG and the application process, and feel free to reach out if you have any questions. Together, we can make a significant impact on the energy landscape.
GEM Workshop Unearths Treasure Trove of Ideas
On November 2, UC Davis hosted the fifth Global Energy Managers (GEM) Workshop, bringing together facility managers, students, and faculty from around the world to discuss energy management, carbon reduction strategies, and community engagement. The event featured an impressive lineup of speakers and thought leaders in the energy field.
Catch Up on Energy Insights
Missed a recent Energy Graduate Group seminar? Don’t worry! You can catch up on these insightful events by watching the recordings online. These seminars feature prominent experts discussing crucial energy topics, offering valuable insights, and exploring the latest developments in the field.
How Algorithms Can Impact CO2 Control and Air Quality
Maintaining a healthy indoor environment involves more than just temperature control; it’s also about balancing energy efficiency and air quality. A recent study at the Western Cooling Efficiency Center at UC Davis delves into the efficacy of Demand Control Ventilation (DCV) systems, examining their ability to adjust ventilation rates in response to indoor carbon dioxide (CO2) levels, thus conserving energy while maintaining air quality.
Led by Theresa Pistochini and a team of researchers, the study developed an innovative test method to evaluate commercially available DCV controllers for packaged HVAC systems. The goal was to assess their performance in controlling indoor CO2 levels in response to occupancy patterns. They found that, while some controllers achieved decent performance, most struggled to maintain CO2 levels within the desired range.
