Energy grid

Energy focus

The energy grid research at CERCA looks at creating adaptive strategies that strengthen the grid, ensuring reliable energy access to all communities in the face of ever-changing climate conditions.

Infographic with drivers, research thrusts, outcomes, and pillars for CERCA's energy grid research
Researchers are co-creating strategies with communities and industry to ensure climate-resilient, sustainable, secure, and equitable energy systems equitable in our transition to clean energy sources. Regional to national scale analysis of energy systems enables community-based climate-mitigation and adaptation strategies.

Example projects

  • Arial view of neighborhood

    Energy efficiency in homes

    This research explores how how home energy efficiency retrofits impact equity, health, costs, and sustainability in historically underserved neighborhoods. The Trade-off Analysis of Residential Retrofits for Energy Equity equitably prioritizes energy retrofits and electrification, accelerating technical assistance to disadvantaged communities. By integrating modeling methods, contractor expertise, and community engagement, the project aims to enhance the quality of life for residents in affordable housing and low-to-moderate-income communities.

    Faculty advisors: Destenie Nock and Costa Samaras

  • electrician adjusting circuitry

    Fuel cells for disaster resilience

    This project explores using modular micro-grids with solid-oxide fuel cells to enhance community resilience to power outages caused by natural disasters. The research combines economic analysis, electricity planning, and operations research to evaluate the effectiveness of decentralized infrastructure in improving disaster response and reducing outage times. It aims to particularly benefit low-income populations who are most vulnerable to these disruptions.

    Faculty advisor: Destenie Nock