Programme
Tuesday, 3 December 2024
| 19.00 | Get together |
Wednesday, 4 December 2024
| 8.30 | Coffee and registration |
| 9.00 | Opening Ceremony |
| 9.20 | Keynote lectures |
| 10.10 | Coffee Break |
| 10.30 | Thematic sessions 1. Use of Bioresources and energy production in green transition 2. Bio and Circular economy in net zero systems 3. Smart Net zero communities |
| 11.30 | Thematic sessions 4. 4G District heating, sustainable heating and cooling 5. Energy communities 6. Net zero emission buildings 7. Decarbonization of mobility |
| 12.30 | Lunch |
| 13.30 | Thematic sessions 8. Novel materials for energy production and storage 9. Social acceptance of net zero systems and technologies 10. Decarbonisation of energy intensive industries: best practice cases 11. Integration of renewables |
| 14.30 | Coffee Break |
| 15.00 | Plenary session |
| 15.45 | Ending remarks |
| 16.00 | End of the day |
| Opportunity for Campus tour | |
| 20.00 | Conference Dinner |
Conference topics
During the conference there will be 11 parallel thematic sessions. Topics of the sessions are 1) Use of Bioresources and energy production in green transition, 2) Bio and Circular economy in net zero systems, 3) Smart Net zero communities, 4) 4G District heating, sustainable heating and cooling, 5) Energy communities, 6) Net zero emission buildings, 7) Decarbonization of mobility, 8) Novel materials for energy production and storage, 9) Social acceptance of net zero systems and technologies, 10) Decarbonisation of energy intensive industries: best practice cases, and 11) Integration of renewables. You may find more detailed description of the sessions below.
1. Use of Bioresources and energy production in green transition
This session will delve into the innovative use of bioresources to generate clean energy, a pivotal component of the global green transition. We will explore a range of topics, including advanced biofuel technologies, biomass energy systems, and the integration of bioresources in circular economies. Through these discussions, we aim to highlight the potential of bioresources to reduce carbon footprints, enhance energy security, and drive economic growth.
2. Bio and Circular economy in net zero systems
The integration of bio and circular economy principles is emerging as a cornerstone for achieving net-zero emissions. In this session, we will explore how bio-based materials and circular economic practices can drive the transition to sustainable, carbon-neutral systems. We will discuss innovative strategies for waste reduction, resource efficiency, and the sustainable management of resources. Through these discussions, we aim to demonstrate the critical role of bio and circular economies in creating resilient, low-carbon solutions that support both environmental and economic sustainability.
3. Smart Net zero communities
The concept of smart net zero communities offers a visionary path towards sustainable living. This session will focus on the innovative approaches and technologies that enable communities to achieve net-zero carbon emissions while enhancing quality of life. We will explore a variety of topics, including smart grid technologies, energy-efficient building practices, sustainable transportation solutions, and the integration of renewable energy sources. We will also discuss the role of community engagement and smart infrastructure in fostering resilient, self-sufficient, and low-carbon communities. Join us as we delve into the transformative potential of smart net zero communities, and discover how these forward-thinking models can serve as blueprints for sustainable urban and rural development worldwide.
4. 4G District heating, sustainable heating and cooling
When aiming to carbon-neutral energy production, the fourth generation (4G) district heating systems under development with new solutions offer a significant leap towards a greener future. In this session, we will explore the technological solutions and innovative strategies that define 4G district heating systems. We will discuss diversified production methods and the lower temperature of district heating water enabling more efficient utilization of waste heat sources. We will also discuss and examine possibilities and advantages of the sector integration of 4G district heating with electricity production taken place with wind and solar energy, smart grid connections to optimize the distribution and use of thermal energy for both heating and cooling. We also investigate the economic, environmental and social benefits of 4G district heating, present real examples and case studies of successful implementations.
5. Energy communities
As we transition towards a more sustainable and decentralized energy future, the concept of energy communities is gaining traction as a powerful model for collective energy management and local empowerment. This session will explore the formation, operation, and benefits of energy communities, where groups of individuals, businesses, and local authorities collaboratively produce, consume, and manage energy. We will discuss various aspects, including the integration of renewable energy sources, energy sharing mechanisms, and the role of digital technologies in enhancing efficiency and engagement. We will highlight successful examples of energy communities from around the world, showcasing their impact on reducing carbon footprints, lowering energy costs, and fostering community resilience.
6. Net zero emission buildings
As the built environment significantly contributes to global carbon emissions, achieving net-zero emission buildings is a critical step towards a sustainable future. In this session, we will explore the innovative design, construction, and operational strategies that enable buildings to achieve net-zero emissions. We will discuss the latest advancements in energy-efficient technologies, renewable energy integration, and sustainable materials. We will also examine the role of smart building systems and data analytics in optimizing energy performance.
7. Decarbonization of mobility
As transportation remains one of the largest contributors to global carbon emissions, finding sustainable solutions for mobility is essential in our fight against climate change. In this session, we will delve into the innovative technologies and policies driving the decarbonization of the transportation sector. We will cover a range of topics, including electric and hydrogen-powered vehicles, sustainable urban mobility planning, and the development of low-carbon public transport systems. We will also explore the role of digitalization and smart mobility solutions in reducing emissions. We aim to highlight the pathways to achieving a sustainable, low-carbon mobility future.
8. Novel materials for energy production and storage
As the demand for sustainable energy solutions accelerates, the development of advanced materials plays a crucial role in enhancing the efficiency, capacity, and sustainability of energy systems. In this session, we will explore the latest breakthroughs in materials science that are driving innovations in energy production and storage. We will discuss cutting-edge materials for solar cells, batteries, fuel cells, and supercapacitors, highlighting their potential to revolutionize the energy landscape. We will also examine the challenges and opportunities in scaling these technologies for commercial use.
9. Social acceptance of net zero systems and technologies
As we strive towards a sustainable future, the success of net-zero systems and technologies hinges not only on their technical feasibility but also on their acceptance by communities and stakeholders. In this session, we will explore the critical role of social acceptance in the deployment and scaling of net-zero solutions. We will discuss strategies for engaging communities, addressing public concerns, and fostering trust in new technologies. Topics will include effective communication, participatory planning, and the socio-economic benefits of transitioning to net-zero systems.
10. Decarbonisation of energy intensive industries: best practice cases
As some of the largest contributors to global carbon emissions, energy-intensive industries face unique challenges and opportunities in the transition to a low-carbon future. In this session, we will showcase best practice cases and innovative strategies that leading companies and sectors have adopted to reduce their carbon footprint. We will discuss advancements in technology, process optimization, and the integration of renewable energy sources. We will also explore policy frameworks and collaborative approaches that have proven effective in driving industrial decarbonization.
11. Integration of renewables
As the world transitions towards a more sustainable energy future, the seamless integration of renewable energy sources into existing energy systems is paramount. In this session, we will explore the innovative strategies and technologies that facilitate the incorporation of renewable energy into the grid. We will cover a range of topics, including grid modernization, energy storage solutions, and smart grid technologies. We will also discuss the challenges and opportunities associated with balancing intermittent renewable sources like solar and wind with stable energy supply demands.