Activity report - Free University of Bozen · Bolzano

2. Renewable energy resources management
Technical background
Scientific research in energy production aims to improve energy efficiency in energy conversion, both from
fossil and renewable energy sources, and to diversify the sources so as to obtain a larger use of renewable
energy sources.
The final energy consumption in South Tyrol comprises electrical energy at 29% and thermal energy at
71%. The renewable energy sources cover around 54% of the overall energy consumption but only around
one third of the thermal energy needs. Two thirds of the South Tyrol heat consumption still depends on
fossil fuels.
The region is oriented towards renewable energy sources (biomasses, hydroelectric, solar, geothermal,
wind) both for developing new technologies and to enhance the exploitation of natural resources for
traditional plane and fossil fuels substitution.
Aims
This topic deals with:
• Analysis of energy generation chains from renewable sources. The availability and the potential of
each resource is contrasted with the sustainability of its utilisation.
• The processes connected with the technological availability of the resources (biomass extraction,
hydraulic works, etc.).
• The study of the processes is supplemented with the analysis of the systems for the combined heat and
power generation, also considering the integration of different generation technologies from renewable
sources.
• Identification of the main sources of energy waste in production devices and processes, the relevant
energy saving potentials and the design and development of methodologies and technologies for
energy saving.
• The definition of development models and tools capable to support the design and decision procedures.
Main reference people
Marco Baratieri, Andrea Gasparella, Fabrizio Mazzetto, Giustino Tonon