The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI), in collaboration with four co-funding partners, has awarded €21 million in government funding to 37 new energy research projects across Ireland. This initiative aims to accelerate the nation's transition to a clean and secure energy future by supporting a diverse range of research endeavours.
The Trinity College Dublin School of Engineering is proud to lead four of these innovative projects:
GEODYN: Geotechnical Dynamic Analysis for Offshore Wind
Led by Dr. David Igoe and co-led by Dr. Breiffni Fitzgerald, this project focuses on enhancing the understanding of offshore wind turbine foundations through advanced testing of the Irish seabed. The research aims to improve the design and stability of these structures, contributing to the efficiency and reliability of offshore wind energy.
Under the leadership of Dr. Patrick Morrisey, with co-leads Prof. Sarah McCormack and Prof. Laurence Gill, this study investigates the feasibility of utilising underground structures, such as basements and piles, to provide heating and cooling solutions for urban developments. By integrating geothermal energy recovery into new constructions, the project aims to offer cost-effective and sustainable heating alternatives.
Dr. Shreejith Shanker leads this project, with co-lead Prof. Biswajit Basu, aiming to address stability concerns arising from the widespread adoption of solar photovoltaic systems and electric vehicle (EV) charging. The research focuses on developing low-power, efficient AI models to predict the impact of renewable generation and dynamic EV charging, leading to the creation of an automated smart controller for optimised energy flow without costly infrastructure upgrades.
Led by Dr. Mohammad Reza Ghaani, with co-leads Prof. Laurence Gill, Prof. Paul Coughlan (Trinity Business School), and Dr. Neda Sheikh Rezazadeh Nikou, this project explores innovative approaches to make wastewater treatment plants more efficient and environmentally friendly. By treating wastewater as a valuable resource, the research aims to help plants generate their own clean energy, reduce air pollution, and lower operating costs.
Additionally, Prof. Brian Caulfield is collaborating with University College Dublin and the University of Limerick on the €1.2 million BL3W (Bike Library 3 Workplaces) project. This initiative builds upon previous research to examine the potential of loaning electric bikes to commuters, aiming to reduce emissions and promote sustainable transportation alternatives.
The School of Engineering extends its gratitude to the SEAI and its co-funding partners—the National Parks and Wildlife Service, Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Marine Institute, and Geological Survey Ireland—for their invaluable support. These collaborations are instrumental in advancing research that addresses critical energy challenges and contributes to Ireland's sustainable future.
Professor Alan O'Connor, Head of the School of Engineering, remarked:
"We are immensely proud of our researchers whose groundbreaking work has been recognised and supported by the SEAI. These projects exemplify our commitment to pioneering solutions that drive sustainable energy practices and address pressing environmental challenges. The support from SEAI and its partners is a testament to the importance of collaborative efforts in achieving a cleaner and more sustainable future."
These achievements underscore the School of Engineering's dedication to excellence in research and its pivotal role in shaping a sustainable energy landscape for Ireland and beyond.