Co-simulation techniques for BIPV assessment

This PhD-project is part of a research project Developing Applied Building Photovoltaics for Performance and Reliability (DAPPER). DAPPER aims at research that provides the basics for improved planning, design choices, and operations of BIPV systems. The four target areas are:

• improved energy yield prediction, of the entire system, and over its lifetime
• design rules, choice of components, and guidelines for maximal performance and reliability
• tools for continuous monitoring enabling self-test and predictive maintenance
• provisions for interfacing with an energy management system including energy forecasting

The project will develop novel solutions which are building on an existing energy yield simulation framework and methodology. This is a detailed bottom-up physics-based model for the calculation of the energy yield that will be expanded to include the degradation rate of the respective components in order to predict lifetime performance. We want to understand failure modes and their effect on reliability and lifetime, and devise ways to avoid them as much as possible. Further, we want to establish an accurate determination of the performance by introducing and validating appropriate measurements of the input and output power. Finally, we want to implement data analysis tools to establish a system that lets us monitor performance and compare it to model-based expectations.

The aim is to contribute to the co-simulation environment that allows to achieve the above described project targets. The co-simulation environment should in the first place allows to generate the boundary conditions for the degradation models in the DAPPER project and should in the last stage of the PhD be coupled to electricity grid simulations to see to what extent BIPV affects the grid stability.

The PhD-project is focusing on energy neutral and zero-carbon buildings. Knowledge of building energy simulation modeling and BIPV is essential. Independence and initiative, reliability in team work and good communication skills are similarly valuable. Finally, a suitable knowledge of spoken and written English is required.

The position is open for applicants holding a Master of Science in Engineering (or equivalent): Architecture, Civil Engineering, Energy, Mechanical Engineering or Electrical Engineering with a strong interest and experience in the field of energy in buildings. Knowledge and experience in the following fields will be relevant:

• Building energy simulation, especially MODELICA (to model buildings, equipment and electrical systems)
• Building Integrated Photovoltaics
• Design and operation of Buildings
• Object-oriented programming, software development tools

Please indicate clearly, what your experience and knowledge in the mentioned fields is and why you are interested and motivated to acquire expertise in the other fields.

• The successful applicant will receive a full-time scholarship for four years to do research to obtain the PhD-degree in Civil Engineering
• You will participate in exciting scientific projects on BIPV. The projects will be carried out at the Building Physics and Sustainable Design Section from the KU Leuven and at the EnergyVille research center in Genk.
• EnergyVille is actively collaborating with industry which enables you to expand your professional network.
• You will collaborate with researchers at CentraleSupélec of the University of Paris-Saclay, France. A research visit to France is envisaged.
• You will receive training from the Arenberg Doctoral School at University of Leuven, one of the top European Universities, providing an excellent research environment. You will have access to state-of-the-art technologies, core facilities and technical support
• You will gain experience in many transferal skills and receive personalized mentoring.
• You will also have the opportunity to participate in local and international conferences and thus expend your scientific network
• Funding is available but the successful candidate will be encouraged to also apply for additional fellowships
• The position is available immediately

Successful candidates are encouraged to apply online.

The application file should contain amotivation letter, detailed CV, copies of latest degree and transcripts and the names and contact details of 2 referees.

For more information please contactprof.dr.ir.-arch. Dirk Saelens, tel.: +32 16 32 13 43, mail: dirk.saelens@kuleuven.be