Question: Could you describe the topic of your WP and how it relates to DeCarbCH?
Answer J. Chambers: The topic of our WP is to improve the understanding of the thermal energy system at the system level to propose cost-effective decarbonization pathways for heating & cooling in Switzerland. To address these challenges, we need models of the provision of thermal energy services at the building stock scale. These models will serve to understand the situation of the present day and explore future transition scenarios.
Q: What are the major challenges?
J. Chambers: Currently, there is limited understanding of the thermal energy system, as previous research has focused primarily on electricity. Therefore, these issues cannot be solved by looking at individual technologies or sectors in isolation. Rather, different technologies need to be modeled to show the impacts and technology needs, e.g., seasonal storage.
Q: What are the main objectives of your WP?
J. Chambers: This WP aims to improve the state-of-the-art thermal energy system models by integrating a range of existing and novel heating & cooling technologies and data sources. We will apply state-of-the-art modeling theory and methods with a mesoscale spatiotemporal resolution. This implies a relatively high resolution, which means looking at hectare squares for groups of buildings, but with large geographic coverage. This allows for a much broader view than case studies while capturing more nuance than national statistical studies.
Q: What are the expected outcomes?
J. Chambers: The thermal and electric energy systems will be harmonized and linked by sector coupling to explore scenarios and generate thermal energy system transition pathways. The ultimate outcome of this work package is to support energy planning at the local, cantonal, and national levels.
Q: Could you provide some examples?
J. Chambers: Within DeCarbCH, WP01 takes a unique position as cross-cutting work package. This includes combining the results of the other work packages, such as case studies and model impacts on the whole thermal energy system across different regions. In addition, an open energy data platform will be set up to store all results and energy data from Switzerland for sharing the same information.
Q: A final word for our readers?
J. Chambers: The main deliverables include a comprehensive thermal energy system model, publications, and reports with detailed recommendations for policymakers, the public, energy agencies, and industry.
