Junior Researcher in Techno-economic Assessment and Simulation of Heat Storage

Are you interested in the role of heat storage in our energy system? Contribute now to quantifying the economic impact of different technologies for heat storage.

Junior Researcher in Techno-economic Assessment and Simulation of Heat Storage

Job description

In PUSH-IT we developed a unified framework for the combined or individual techno-economic assessment of heat storage and geothermal heat sources. One of the challenges for such an approach is the combination of subsurface (geological) heterogeneity and uncertainty with the performance of various technical components of the heating systems in different climatic conditions. To address this complexity, a team of geological and technology experts work together to build a framework on open-source code (Python) that is high-performing and scalable to comprehensively quantify uncertainties using probability theory.

This is where you will contribute: in the application of the developed generic, open-source, high-performing and highly scalable framework to assess the Levelized Cost of Energy/Heat (LCOE) reduction and carbon emission reduction costs (CRC) of heat storage in geothermal reservoirs in combination with different heat supply sources. The framework we developed will be used to analyse the techno-economic performance of heat storage systems at any time interval required to capture the system dynamics as dictated by demand-side management. Input from consortium industry partners on component, operational and other costs will be used to validate the techno-economic models and quantify the risks of business case development. A strong collaboration with consortium members in industry and academia is key.

Research Context

The EU aims to have a net-zero greenhouse gas (GHG) economy by 2050. At present, heating and cooling represent around 50% of the final energy use in Europe and are mainly supplied by fossil-fuel-derived energy. Because sustainable heat is mainly available in summer and demand is high in winter, large scale seasonal heat storage is a key strategy to decarbonize heating in order to achieve EU ambitions.

TU Delft leads a large European project [PUSH-IT] that will showcase and develop full-scale application of heat storage (up to 90°C) in geothermal reservoirs using three different technologies: Aquifer, Borehole and Mine Thermal Energy Storage (ATES, BTES, MTES), at 6 different sites in Europe which together represent a relevant range of geological conditions across Europe.

LCOE Generating a Sustainable Energy Economy

Many sustainable heat supply systems are characterised by high capital expenditure and low operational costs. Therefore, an installed capacity tailored at peak demand is not cost effective, while extending the annual operation period is advantageous for meeting energy needs, reducing levelised cost of energy (LCOE) and decarbonisation. Optimal utilisation of sustainable heat requires storing large amounts of heat to account for seasonal supply and demand fluctuations. Various technologies have been proposed for large-scale heat storage in geothermal reservoirs and low-temperature storage is routinely applied. PUSH-IT focuses on extending storage temperature ranges to high temperatures. We will tackle remaining barriers for high temperature storage, demonstrate applicability, increase public engagement, and optimise and de-risk operations.

Job requirements

• MSc degree in a relevant field (e.g. applied earth science, engineering, thermal energy storage, etc.) and experience in using high performance code in Python (libraries: pandas, xarray, dask).
• Experience with simulation of HT-ATES in heterogeneous geothermal formations.
• Team player who thrives working with people in different organisations with different skillsets, with the goal to have an impact on the energy transition.
• Curiosity and interest in subsurface heat storage.
• Ability to plan, execute, deliver on your planning and communicate research results through excellent written and oral communication skills in English.
• Experience with reservoir simulation, heterogeneous heat storage modelling, energy systems modelling, techno-economics is considered a plus, but support can be provided on these aspects.

TU Delft (Delft University of Technology)

Delft University of Technology is built on strong foundations. As creators of the world-famous Dutch waterworks and pioneers in biotech, TU Delft is a top international university combining science, engineering and design. It delivers world class results in education, research and innovation to address challenges in the areas of energy, climate, mobility, health and digital society. For generations, our engineers have proven to be entrepreneurial problem-solvers, both in business and in a social context.

Faculty of Civil Engineering and Geosciences

The Faculty of Civil Engineering & Geosciences (CEG) is committed to outstanding international research and education in the field of civil engineering, applied earth sciences, traffic and transport, water technology, and delta technology. Our research feeds into our educational programmes and covers societal challenges such as climate change, energy transition, resource availability, urbanisation and clean water. Our research projects are conducted in close cooperation with a wide range of research institutions. CEG is convinced of the importance of open science and supports its scientists in integrating open science in their research practice. The Faculty of CEG comprises 28 research groups in the following seven departments: Materials Mechanics Management & Design, Engineering Structures, Geoscience and Engineering, Geoscience and Remote Sensing, Transport & Planning, Hydraulic Engineering and Water Management.

Conditions of employment

• Duration of contract is 8 months. Temporary.
• An excellent pension scheme via the ABP.
• The possibility to compile an individual employment package every year.
• Discount with health insurers on supplemental packages.
• Flexible working week.
• Plenty of opportunities for education, training and courses.
• Partially paid parental leave.
• Attention for working healthy and energetically with the vitality program.

Additional information

For more information about this vacancy, please contact Alexandros Daniilidis at a.daniilidis@tudelft.nl.

This position is available for candidates who hold at least an MSc degree. Candidates without a PhD degree will be considered if they can demonstrate that they have the relevant experience.