Thermal Energy Networks for Decarbonization of Campuses, Neighborhoods, and Cities

2-1-6 units · Undergraduate

Thermal Energy Networks (TENs) use ambient-temperature water to transfer thermal energy between sources and sinks—a highly efficient system for building decarbonization. Subject offers technical lectures based on professional trainings. Topics covered include: HVAC, heat pumps, geo-exchange, ambient loops, thermal energy storage, waste energy recovery, techno-economic analysis, policy, industry standards, case studies, thermal systems modeling, and networks. Class is project-based and transdisciplinary. Students undertake a feasibility/test-fit study of a potential TEN at a local site, gaining first-hand knowledge of how to decarbonize clusters of buildings. Graduate version requires additional work. Enrollment limited to 20.