In the service of scientific progress, research lies at the core of our commitment, driving the development of innovative and sustainable energy solutions on a global scale.

Research: The Heart of the Department

The Department of Energy is a recognised centre of excellence at both the national and international levels in the energy sector.
It brings together cross-disciplinary and multidisciplinary scientific expertise, which is essential for exploring, developing and disseminating research in this complex and constantly evolving field. Maintaining a technologically neutral vision, it operates across the entire energy value chain: from technologies for energy production, conversion, transportation and usage, with a focus on social and environmental sustainability, to the analysis of environmental and socio-economic impacts, energy security and risks, which are crucial for addressing the energy transition. It collaborates with Italian and European governmental agencies and actively participates in competitive research projects, operating in a highly relevant international context. Moreover, it forms alliances with national and international companies to develop and strengthen its research infrastructures.

Our Research Themes

 The Department’s multidisciplinary expertise is structured and enhanced through macro-themes that span the entire energy value chain, addressed across the five  Research Sections. Starting with technological, process and plant-related topics, these expand to include environmental and socio-economic impacts, energy security implications and risk analysis, which are essential for tackling the complexity of the energy transition.

Further details on the Department’s Strategic Project. (.PDF file)

The analysis of primary resources and energy conversion processes highlights the roles of fossils and renewable sources in energy transition scenarios, with particular attention to the issues arising from the growing penetration of renewable sources. Additionally, research focuses on the development of technologies to reduce environmental impact and explores the potential benefits of nuclear energy.

The study of energy components and processes aims to improve efficiency, reduce environmental impact and limit energy consumption. The technologies studied range from thermodynamic cycles and processes to pollution reduction devices and CO2 capture, as well as new energy carriers such as hydrogen, biofuels and e-fuels. The research also covers technologies for renewable sources and energy and material recovery, including the optimisation of fluid dynamics, heat exchange and mass transfer processes.

Research focuses on the development of electrochemical storage systems and the creation of resilient and integrated electricity grids necessary for managing the increasing share of energy from renewable sources. Solutions for utilising surplus renewable energy to produce synthetic fuels (including hydrogen) are explored, as well as the planning and operation of the electricity system and the development of smart grids.

Research activities extend to the civil, industrial and transport sectors, focusing on increasing energy efficiency and reducing carbon emissions. Life cycle analysis plays a crucial role in identifying the most effective technologies for decarbonisation.

Activities focus on developing multi-scale models to assess the impacts and risks of energy systems, integrating simulation analysis, demand forecasting and environmental impact assessment. These tools are crucial for supporting informed and sustainable energy decisions at the local, national and global levels.

12

ERC grants won

€24

M

turnover in 2023

Five Research Sections, One Department

Organisationally, the Department of Energy is divided into five closely interconnected Research Sections, each with specialised expertise in different thematic areas. Each Section is composed of faculty members and subdivided into dedicated research groups.

Alcuni progetti selezionati

Alcuni progetti selezionati

Alcuni progetti selezionati

The Places of Research: Our Laboratories