Building a Green Future
In a world where climate change, resource scarcity and pollution are increasingly challenging, the transition to sustainable energy has become a necessity. The projects in this cluster show how a joint commitment to sustainable energy contributes to a green future. Whether optimising energy flows within companies, designing innovative charging hubs or reducing electronic waste, each project contributes to achieving the 2030 sustainable development goals. Moreover, they offer students the chance to gain multidisciplinary experience and work together with companies, municipalities and knowledge institutions.
The first project focuses on hydrogen conversion within smart energy hubs. Companies and business parks are becoming increasingly sustainable, but using electrical energy instead of natural gas puts a big burden on the electricity grid. Smart energy hubs offer a solution by providing flexibility in the demand and generation of renewable energy. The development of a smart energy hub and the possibilities of large-scale hydrogen generation are being investigated in Deventer.
The second project focuses on the design of modular charging hubs that serve as solar carports. By placing solar panels over car parks, we can not only generate green energy, but also provide space for charging cars and bikes, water collection for reuse, green spaces and create a pleasant environment. The aim is to develop a modular design that can be applied to all car parks in the Netherlands. This will consider both structural feasibility and financial attractiveness. By implementing this system widely, we can accelerate the energy transition and promote sustainable mobility.
The third project revolves around the concept “E-waste does not exist”. This centres on the transition to a circular economy, in which products and raw materials are reused as much as possible and waste is minimised. In Apeldoorn, for example, work is underway to reduce E-waste by establishing circular craft centres. These centres focus on repairing and selling second-hand products, extending the life of electronic waste. Connecting the different links in the process of collection, assessment, repair and sale requires process innovation and cooperation between different companies and institutions.
This project contributes to the following Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):
