Department/School
School of Sustainability, Civil and Environmental Engineering
Project Description
The UK has made a legal commitment to reach the net zero targets by 2050 but the progress so far suggests that significant challenges lie ahead. The recent global geo-political situation and the resultant cost of living crisis has further aggravated the situation for two reasons: 1) the national attention has shifted to addressing the immediate energy and cost of living crisis and 2) the investment climate has also changed quite dramatically. The energy security issue has emerged as a major concern and it is in this context, we are proposing an investigation of sustainable local district energy system as a resilient option that could offer multiple benefits.
The district energy system will consider different local energy supply options for meeting electricity and heating needs of the district. Most of the district energy systems focus on heating but an integrated solution for electricity and heating could be more effective. Local interventions at the community level will be essential if the UK’s 2050 Net-Zero targets are to be reached. The aim is to a) develop the concept of the district energy model; b) prepare an analytical framework for the district energy system; and c) analyse the multidimensional interactions and impacts of such a system at the district level using a case study.
How to Apply
Applications should be submitted via the Environment and Sustainability PhD programme page , but please note the closing date for this studentship is Friday 6th January 2023. In place of a research proposal you should upload a document stating the title of the projects (up to 2) that you wish to apply for and the name(s) of the relevant supervisor. You must upload your full CV and any transcripts of previous academic qualifications. You should enter ’Faculty Funded Competition’ under funding type.
Funding
The studentship will provide a stipend at UKRI rates (currently £17,668 for 2022/23) and tuition fees for 3.5 years. An additional bursary of £1700 per annum for the duration of the studentship will be offered to exceptional candidates.