For FEBHEL, the belgian interprofessional federation for wood energy, we conduct a study to understand how wood-based energy (wood stoves, pellet stoves) could support the electrification of heating and other uses. To that aim, we use a detailed in-house model to quantify, from a technical, economic, and environmental (3E) perspective, the benefits of wood-based energy in managing electricity demand peaks on distribution grids.

Key Actions: state of the art delivery, energy systems modelling 

We provide technical support to CLIMACT, a Brussels-based climate and energy consultancy. Specifically, we assist them in preparing proposals and offer to serve as subcontractors for the technical aspects of the studies (state of the art, modeling, and analysis of results). The topics covered include, in particular, the analysis of energy systems and life cycle sustainability assessment (LCSA).

Key Actions: technical support, scientific subcontracting, energy systems modelling 

For the Environmental Defense Fund, an international NGO advocating for environmental protection, we conduct a study with PyPSA-Eur to assess the local and global impacts of relaxing the criteria defining renewable liquid and gaseous fuels of non-biological origin (RFNBO), such as introduced in the EU Delegated Regulation 2023/1184. We develop and analyse 10+ regulatory variants, focusing on the additionality criterion, the temporal and geographical, and on the renewable share and grid intensity exemption criteria.

Key Actions: whole energy system modelling, green hydrogen, regulatory analysis

For Bruxelles Environnement, public administration of the Brussels-Capital Region, we develop a detailed, high-fidelity model of the heat pump fleet operating within the region. The model is intended to improve regional energy balances, which are essential tools for monitoring and planning the energy transition. Our remit includes the identification, collection, selection, and processing of multiple sources of field data, as well as the development of a model representing the current heat pump fleet and the construction of projection scenarios up to 2050 to forecast future energy consumption.

Key Actions: data collection, modelling heat pumps fleet under uncertainty, energy projections

We support negaWatt Belgium, a non-profit organisation that promotes energy sufficiency as way to reach our climate and ecological ambitions. We specifically assist them in building the negaWatt Belgium Scenario developped with PyPSA-Eur and in collaboration with the University of Liège. Our tasks involve the modelling and the projection of energy demand data over the 2020-2025 period, as well as the analysis and the refinement of the scenario to improve its real life plausibility.

Key Actions: projection of energy demand data under sufficiency assumptions, scenario analysis and refinement

We support Thermal Design Solution, a Luxembourg-based engineering and consulting company, in techno-economic studies for projects involving waste heat recovery and energy storage through organic Rankine cycles (ORC) and Carnot batteries. Specifically, we provided them with a bespoke two-day training course covering the fundamentals of energy system optimisation and modelling, uncertainty management and robust optimisation, as well as life cycle analysis. 

Key Actions: training in optimisation and techno-economic analyses, project framing

We support Sirona Technologies, a Brussels-based start-up company, in the design and the optimisation of their Direct Air Capture machines. Specifically, we focus on thermal integration through high temperature heat pumps. We also assist them in reviewing the market and selecting the machines best suited to their needs. 

Key Actions: thermodynamic and energy model, experimental data analysis, industrial heat pumps market review

Together with AGC Glass Europe, a leader in the glass industry, we explore pathways to decarbonise glass production. We develop system models and a decision-making framework that account for future technological, economic, and environmental uncertainties. This provides AGC with a comprehensive tool to guide robust investments and technology choices, ensuring progress toward their carbon-reduction targets in an uncertain future. 

Key Actions: techno-economic and CO2 model, uncertainty quantification, robust optimisation