FuturHist’s Post

As General Conference Chair, please see the call for short papers and full papers, and the invitation to submit an invited track proposal for the 17th Sustainability in Energy & Buildings (SEB'25) International Conference, organised by KES International: https://lnkd.in/gJbKb6xR. Please share this call with contacts and collaborators.    SEB’25 is being held at The University of Catania, Catania, Sicily: https://lnkd.in/gchJfWbR with multiple parallel streams, keynote and delegate presentations, meetings and networking, and break-out spaces; between 17th to the 19th September 2025.   For paper submissions delegates can choose from two General Tracks: G01-Sustainable & Resilient Buildings, and G02-Sustainable Energy Technologies (Renewable Energy Technologies and Smart Grids and Micro Grids):  https://lnkd.in/gFrrHgPZ and thus far three Invited Tracks: https://lnkd.in/ggHMKGzJ.   IS01: Smart Cities & Sustainability: Integrating Technology for Urban Resilience and Sustainable. IS02: Advanced Assessment Methods, Tools and Design Solutions for users’ Well-Being in Buildings. IS03: Emerging risks and challenges in the decarbonization of the built environment under climate change.   We welcome proposals for further invited tracks and special sessions, please see information on submitting a proposal: http://seb-https://lnkd.in/gcr-nMdB. SEB'25 will enable researchers (from doctoral students, post-docs and academic staff) government and industry professionals to come together and share ideas physically.   Accepted full papers (where at least one of the authors registers/presents at the conference) will be published as a chapter in the multiple indexed Springer book series: https://lnkd.in/g2U8v6i. Please see the published SEB’23 full papers: published in 2024: https://lnkd.in/gSeRs5se. Likewise, accepted short papers (where at least one of the authors registers/presents at the conference) will be published as an article in the online journal Sustainability in Energy and Buildings Research Advances: https://lnkd.in/gMfg6XY.     Please see general information on submitting papers: https://lnkd.in/gsxHnzAz. Note paper submission deadlines are as follows (we do not accept abstracts): https://lnkd.in/gPdwNRiz. Full Papers  Submission of papers: 28th April 2025. Notification of Acceptance/Required paper revisions: 2nd June 2025. Submission of final publication files: 16th June 2025. Short Papers Submission of papers: 30th May 2025. Notification of Acceptance/Required paper revisions: 23rd June 2025. Submission of final publication files: 30th June 2025. Regards       John

We're thrilled to share a cutting-edge development in renewable energy and urban infrastructure! Researchers at Germany's Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems ISE (Fraunhofer ISE) are pioneering new module concepts to integrate into noise barrier walls along roadways and railways. These innovative designs aim to transform everyday sound barriers into cost-effective, power-generating solutions. Project Highlights: - Project PVwins: Initiated in 2020, the PVwins project has now progressed to the outdoor field testing stage, where five different integrated PV solutions are being tested for use in sound-absorbing walls. - Collaborative Effort: The project involves a diverse team, including R. Kohlhauer GmbH (sound protection walls), IGRA Power GmbH (engineering and PV specialist), Energiegenossenschaft Inn‐Salzach (German utility), Bundesanstalt für Strassenwesen (German Ministry of Roadways), Deutsches Zentrum für Schienenverkehrsforschung des Eisenbahn Bundesamt (national railway research organization), and Swiss PV module manufacturer Megasol Energie. - Comprehensive Approach: The research team is evaluating the design, prototyping, manufacturing, economic potential, and marketability of these integrated PV solutions. The goal is to identify the most effective and practical designs for application in newly constructed soundwalls, retrofits, and add-on projects. Why This Matters: Integrating solar panels into noise barrier walls not only enhances the functionality of these structures but also maximizes land use by generating clean energy. This approach is especially beneficial in populated areas with busy roads and railways, contributing to a sustainable urban environment. This innovative project exemplifies how renewable energy can be seamlessly integrated into everyday infrastructure, offering a dual benefit of noise reduction and energy generation. 🔗 Read more about Fraunhofer ISE's Solar Noise Barriers: https://lnkd.in/djNZj9A3 Join us in celebrating this inspiring leap forward in sustainable infrastructure and renewable energy! 🌍🔋 #RenewableEnergy #SolarInnovation #SustainableInfrastructure #CleanEnergy #UrbanDevelopment #GreenTechnology

Over the past four years, Oberlin has been installing geothermal infrastructure. Construction in partnership with Ever-Green Energy is now completed, and our new eco-friendly geothermal heating and cooling system is fully operational, replacing the outdated fossil fuel-based system just in time for winter. “Oberlin has been proactive about meeting the challenge of carbon neutrality,” says President Carmen Twillie Ambar. “We’re not avoiding our responsibility to future generations. We are acting now to address our aging energy system and thereby creating a more sustainable campus—and planet.” This marks a major milestone among many in Oberlin's Sustainable Infrastructure Program (SIP): 850 geothermal wells installed 60 campus buildings retrofitted 5+ million gallons of water saved annually 30% improvement in campus energy efficiency 100% carbon neutrality expected by 2025 For more on Oberlin’s Sustainable Infrastructure Program, visit https://lnkd.in/gDPaevw5 📸: Mike Crupi

Catholic University has taken a monumental step in its sustainability journey by completing its 7.5 MW West Campus Solar Array. This initiative, developed in collaboration with Standard Solar, a leading commercial and community solar developer, underscores the University’s commitment to renewable energy and its vision for an eco-friendly future. The solar array is on a 40-acre parcel of land initially intended to be converted into a parking lot. Instead, it now hosts 42 rows of solar panels that will generate 10,000 MWh of power annually. This makes it the region’s most extensive urban ground-mount solar array, reflecting the University’s innovative approach to land use and sustainable energy solutions. In addition to its environmental benefits, the solar array will provide clean energy savings to over 1,200 community subscribers, resulting in an estimated $3.5 million in savings over the next 20 years. The West Campus Solar Array is part of Catholic University’s comprehensive sustainability plan, which includes LEED-certified buildings, electric vehicle charging stations, and modern energy infrastructure. To save energy & cost for your business, contact me at https://buff.ly/2EjAMbu. #Reliability #EnergyStorage #EnergyEfficiency #Renewables #EnergyAudit #Procurement #Resilience https://buff.ly/4aQaN7d

Energy-Positive Buildings: Beyond Net Zero The future of construction is energy-positive buildings structures that generate more energy than they consume. These buildings use advanced renewable systems like solar façades, wind turbines, and energy storage to achieve this revolutionary goal. The Powerhouse Brattørkaia in Norway is one of the world's first energy-positive buildings, producing enough energy to power neighboring buildings. SAT is inspired by such initiatives as we look to integrate energy-positive strategies into Egypt's growing urban landscape. #EnergyPositiveBuildings #Sustainability #SATLeadership #NetZeroToPositive

Modual & the 34th Swiss Solar Prize We’re thrilled to announce modual AG’s support and attendance at the prestigious 34th Swiss Solar Prize ceremony. This event is an inspiring reminder of Switzerland’s commitment to #sustainability, celebrating visionary achievements in solar energy and energy-efficient building. As prominent voices from business, science, and politics, including members of the National Council, present awards to the year’s most impressive #solar projects, we’re honored to stand alongside other industry leaders advancing the energy transition. 🏆 Highlighting Swiss Excellence in Sustainable Innovation Each year, the Swiss Solar Prize recognizes remarkable projects that go beyond standard efficiency, showcasing what’s possible with dedication and innovation. Of special note this year are Minergie-P buildings and PlusEnergy Buildings (PEB), which demonstrate how advanced architecture can deliver exceptional sustainability: Minergie-P and PEB buildings reduce energy losses by an impressive 80%. On average, PEBs generate up to eight times more energy than they consume over a year. These statistics underscore the potential for cutting-edge building standards to dramatically lower energy demand and create a future-ready energy landscape at a reasonable cost—a win for both the planet and Swiss businesses. 🔋 Driving the Energy Transition We’re proud to join the ranks of innovative companies, including HEV Schweiz, Heizplan HPA AG, SIGA, Kanton Schwyz, Bezirk Schwyz, Netzwerk Energiestadt Kanton Solothurn, SSES, among many others, to showcase the positive impact of solar installations across the country. Modual’s commitment to #SustainableEnergy aligns seamlessly with the mission of the Swiss Solar Prize, inspiring further investment in green technology that paves the way for a resilient, energy-independent Switzerland. The energy transition requires collective action, and we’re excited to support initiatives like the Swiss Solar Prize that empower companies, policymakers, and communities to drive impactful change. Stay tuned for highlights from this event and insights into the future of Swiss solar innovation. Let’s build a more sustainable future together! 🌱 #SwissSolarPrize #EnergyTransition #Sustainability #SolarEnergy #Modual

I am delighted to be in Switzerland for the 34th Swiss Solar Prize ceremony, celebrating groundbreaking achievements in solar energy and sustainable building! I am also thrilled to support modual AG as we join industry leaders, policymakers, and innovators dedicated to advancing the #EnergyTransition. Check out #Modual’s post below for more on the impact of #sustainable thinking in energy management. 👉 Jesse Morris, MBA-DM 🔔 Follow Jesse Morris, MBA-DM for more interesting posts and latest news in #BatteryTech, #Sustainability & #GreenTechnology

University of Exeter spin out, BUILD SOLAR is looking to change how we construct the buildings of the future, with its innovative solar powered bricks. Created by entrepreneur and solar scientist Dr. Hasan Baig and renewable energy scientist Professor Tapas Mallick. the company is aiming to build integrated, affordable, efficient, and attractive solar technologies as part of building architecture, reaching places where energy demand is highest, whilst having minimal impact on the landscape and quality of life. https://lnkd.in/emW-E3zQ #productengineering #solar #solarinnovation #innovation  

🌟 Article Sharing: Regional Difference of US Residential Building Energy Usage and Carbon Footprint: State-Level Analysis 🌎🏠 In this insightful study, Jianli Chen and Biao Kuang from the University of Utah present a detailed analysis of the state-level energy consumption and carbon footprint of residential buildings in the United States. This paper fills a significant gap in the literature by investigating consumption-based emissions, providing a clearer picture of regional disparities in energy use and carbon emissions. 🔑 Key Findings: State-Level Analysis: Carbon emissions and energy consumption vary significantly across the US, with Texas and California leading in total energy consumption, while Missouri has the highest carbon intensity. 🏞️ Regional Variations: Coastal states such as California have lower carbon intensities compared to central states. Electrification plays a key role in states like Florida and Hawaii, influencing their sensitivity to carbon emissions from electricity generation. 🎊 Decarbonization Pathways: The research highlights the need for state-specific strategies—states with high gas usage, like Illinois, need to reduce fossil fuel reliance, while highly electrified states, like Hawaii, must transition to renewable energy. 🎇 This study offers valuable insights for policymakers and stakeholders aiming to reduce carbon footprints and energy usage in the residential sector. 🔗 Read the full study: https://lnkd.in/gPNJKseH #EnergyEfficiency #CarbonFootprint #Sustainability #ResidentialBuildings #Decarbonization #RenewableEnergy #BuildingDesign #ClimateAction

The world’s largest vertical panel rooftop solar energy system is at Norway’s Ullevaal Stadium in Oslo. Equipped in May 2024 with 1,242 units spanning 2,500 square meters (26,900 square feet), this installation will generate an impressive 219,000 kWh of green energy annually. Bjørn Simonsen, a leader in the renewable energy sector, hails this design as "one of the most promising innovations within rooftop solar power." Why Vertical Panels? The vertical panel system, installed by Over Easy Systems, boasts yields that are 20-30% higher than traditional panels. The quick installation process transformed the stadium's classic bitumen roof into a powerhouse of renewable energy in just a few days, compared to the months typically required for other systems. Key Advantages: - Lightweight Design: Weighing just 11kg per square meter, these panels require no heavy ballast or intrusive fasteners, making them ideal for various sites. - Space Efficiency:The reduced size of the panels frees up roof space and allows for easy access and maintenance. - Bi-Facial Design: Utilizing both sides of the panel effectively doubles the production cycle, providing more hours of productive use with a unique two-peak per day profile. Performance in Nordic Conditions: The panels’ north-south orientation, slightly tweaked 20 degrees to the southeast, optimizes performance during the winter months. The system also benefits from snow albedo, enhancing light reflection and energy generation. #RenewableEnergy #SolarPower #Innovation #Sustainability #GreenEnergy #SolarPowerExpert #VerticalPanels #UllevaalStadion #Norway #ClimateChange #CleanEnergy #FutureOfEnergy https://lnkd.in/ebRDYJtW