We are pleased to announce that Professor Helena M. Ramos, Full Professor at the Department of Civil Engineering (DeCivil) and member of the Civil Engineering Research and Innovation for Sustainability (CERIS) at Instituto Superior Técnico (IST), is a key participant in the HY4RES project. This ambitious project aims to develop new renewable energy technology and data management systems, facilitating the transition towards net-zero energy consumers and communities across the Atlantic Area. The kick-off meeting was held on 4-5 December at Trinity colleague Dublin.
About the HY4RES Project
HY4RES addresses the critical challenge of increasing renewable energy penetration by utilizing innovative storage and management solutions. The project seeks to advance hybrid renewable energy systems that balance the variable outputs of wind, solar, and hydropower with advanced energy storage technologies.
Project Objectives and Actions
HY4RES will focus on:
- Developing cost-effective small-scale solutions for hybrid electricity generation and energy storage.
- Creating renewable energy management software using artificial intelligence and forecasting models.
- Demonstrating hybrid renewable energy systems in four pilot sites: Ireland (aquaculture), Spain (agriculture and ports), and Portugal (community energy).
- Assessing system sustainability and formulating policy recommendations.
- Establishing a “Community of Practice” to disseminate project results among a wide network of stakeholders.
- Role of Instituto Superior Técnico (IST)
IST plays a pivotal role in HY4RES by leading the piloting of technologies across four to five pilot plants, with a particular focus on the community energy supply in Portugal. Professor Helena Ramos and her team will contribute significantly to the development and demonstration of these technologies, leveraging IST’s extensive expertise in renewable energy research, technology innovation, and energy management.
Pilot Site in Portugal
The Portuguese pilot site, located in Castanheira de Pêra and Marruge, aims to install a hybrid renewable energy system to manage the community’s energy needs efficiently. Activities include the rehabilitation of historical sites such as an old cap factory and a water mill, transforming them into integral parts of the renewable energy system. This initiative not only aims for energy self-sufficiency but also enhances the region’s attractiveness and competitiveness.
Partnership and Collaboration
HY4RES is a collaborative effort involving nine full partners and four associate partners from Ireland, France, Spain, and Portugal. These partners bring diverse expertise from academia, SMEs, civil and business associations, and public authorities. Together, they will work towards a more sustainable and efficient energy future.
Significance and Expected Outcomes
The HY4RES project is crucial for addressing the growing need for sustainable energy systems in Europe. Improving the penetration rate of renewable energies supports the European Green Deal and Sustainable Development Goal 7 on clean and affordable energy. The project aims to demonstrate the potential for decarbonization in various sectors, optimize renewable energy management, reduce costs, and lower emissions.
We congratulate Professor Helena Ramos and the entire IST team for their involvement in this groundbreaking project. Their contributions will be instrumental in achieving the ambitious goals of HY4RES and advancing sustainable energy solutions across the Atlantic Area.
Funding and Duration
The project is funded by the EU Interreg Atlantic Area program, with a total budget of €3,200,498.90, spanning from 2023 to 2026.
For more information, please visit the HY4RES project website.