Overview
Climate change and the rapid growth of urban populations pose significant challenges to our society. By decarbonising energy systems, and integrating renewable energy technologies and smart solutions into buildings (i.e., zero-energy (ZEB) or nearly zero-energy (nZEB) buildings), we can move towards more sustainable energy solutions. However, it is crucial to ensure that these solutions can withstand the variations brought about by climate change, especially during extreme weather events.
In the intensive, blended Climate Neutral Buildings course (nZEBRA), a dedicated module focuses on studying climate change adaptation discussing topics such as climate variation, multiscale climate modelling, the occurrence and assessment of extreme events, and the impact assessment of climate change. In this module, students will become familiar with climate modelling techniques, downscaling methodologies, and the application of climate models and data with different spatiotemporal resolutions to assess building performance.
They will also explore the definition of concepts such as climate change adaptation, mitigation, as well as resilience, and flexibility using real-world examples, policies, and solutions. Furthermore, students will gain insight into how multiscale climate models and fine spatial resolution climate data influence the performance of integrated renewable energy systems within urban areas. Finally, students will learn how to generate and utilize historical and future weather datasets during typical and extreme climate events for energy and hygrothermal performance assessments of buildings. Hands-on training and practical assignments will provide students with the skills needed to navigate these challenges effectively.
Learning objectives
- Understand the concepts of climate change adaptation/mitigation and their significance in the context of sustainable urban development.
- Explore the various impacts of climate change on buildings and energy systems, including extreme weather events.
- Familiarise with climate modelling techniques and downscaling methodologies for assessing climate change impacts at different spatial and temporal scales.
- Analyse the performance of buildings and integrated renewable energy systems under varying climate conditions, including extreme events.
- Gain insight into the resilience of different building technologies and renewable energy solutions in the face of climate change.
- Develop skills in generating and utilising historical and future weather datasets for assessing energy and hygrothermal performance of buildings during typical and extreme climate events.
- Apply knowledge acquired through hands-on training and practical assignments to develop adaptation strategies for enhancing the resilience of urban energy systems and buildings against climate change impacts.
