The EU aims to have a net-zero greenhouse gas (GHG) economy by 2050. At present, heating and cooling represent around 50% of the final energy use in Europe and are mainly supplied by fossil fuel derived energy. Because sustainable heat is mainly available in summer and demand is high in winter, large scale seasonal heat storage is a key strategy to decarbonize heating in order to achieve EU ambitions. TU Delft leads a large European project that will showcase and develop full-scale application of heat storage (up to 90°C) in geothermal reservoirs using three different technologies: Aquifer, Borehole and Mine Thermal Energy Storage (ATES, BTES, MTES), at 6 different sites in Europe which together represent a relevant range of geological conditions across Europe. In this PD project you will contribute to the development and application of a generic, open-source, high-performance and highly scalable framework to assess the Levelized Cost of Energy/Heat - LCOE reduction and carbon emission reduction costs (CRC) of heat storage in geothermal reservoirs in combination with different heat supply sources.

LCOE generating a sustainable energy economy

Many sustainable heat supply systems are characterised by high capital expenditure and low operational costs. Therefore, an installed capacity tailored at peak demand is not cost effective, while extending the annual operation period is advantageous for meeting energy needs, reducing levelised cost of energy (LCOE) and decarbonisation. Optimal utilisation of sustainable heat requires storing large amounts of heat to account for seasonal supply and demand fluctuations. Various technologies have been proposed for large-scale heat storage in geothermal reservoirs and low temperature storage is routinely applied. PUSH-IT focuses on extending storage temperature ranges to high temperatures. We will tackle remaining barriers for high temperature storage, demonstrate applicability, increase public engagement, and optimise and de-risk operations.

In PUSH-IT we will develop a unified framework for the combined or individual techno-economic assessment of heat storage and geothermal heat sources. One of the challenges for such an approach is the combination of subsurface (geological) heterogeneity and uncertainty with the performance of various technical components of the heating systems in varying climatic conditions. To address this complexity, a team of geological and technology experts will work together to build a framework on open-source code (Python) that is high performant and scalable to comprehensively quantify uncertainties using probability theory. The framework will further be able to seamlessly analyse the techno-economic performance of heat storage systems at any time interval required to capture the system dynamics as dictated by demand-side management. Finally, a simplified user interface will be developed to make the interaction with the underlying code more user friendly and accessible. Input from consortium industry partners on component, operational and other costs will be used to validate the techno-economic models. A strong collaboration with consortium members in industry and academia is key.

We are looking for an excellent candidate with the following qualifications, knowledge and skills:

• A master and PhD degree in applied earth science, civil engineering, mechanical engineering or another degree with experience in developing high performance code in python (libraries : pandas, xarray, dask).
• Experience with reservoir simulation and with energy systems modelling, techno-economics is a plus.
• A team player who thrives working with people in different organisations with different skillsets, with the goal to have an impact on the energy transition.
• A curiosity inspired and creative researcher with an interest in geothermal energy and subsurface heat storage, who is able to plan, execute, deliver and communicate research.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills in English.

Fixed-term contract: 2 years.

Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities. The TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, a discount on health insurance and sport memberships, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged.

For international applicants we offer the Coming to Delft Service and Partner Career Advice to assist you with your relocation. An International Children's Centre offers childcare and there is an international primary school.

Delft University of Technology

Delft University of Technology is built on strong foundations. As creators of the world-famous Dutch waterworks and pioneers in biotech, TU Delft is a top international university combining science, engineering and design. It delivers world class results in education, research and innovation to address challenges in the areas of energy, climate, mobility, health and digital society. For generations, our engineers have proven to be entrepreneurial problem-solvers, both in business and in a social context.

At TU Delft we embrace diversity as one of our core values and we actively engage to be a university where you feel at home and can flourish. We value different perspectives and qualities. We believe this makes our work more innovative, the TU Delft community more vibrant and the world more just. Together, we imagine, invent and create solutions using technology to have a positive impact on a global scale. That is why we invite you to apply. Your application will receive fair consideration.

Challenge. Change. Impact!

Faculty Civil Engineering and Geosciences

The Faculty of Civil Engineering & Geosciences (CEG) is committed to outstanding international research and education in the field of civil engineering, applied earth sciences, traffic and transport, water technology, and delta technology. Our research feeds into our educational programmes and covers societal challenges such as climate change, energy transition, resource availability, urbanisation and clean water. Our research projects are conducted in close cooperation with a wide range of research institutions. CEG is convinced of the importance of open science and supports its scientists in integrating open science in their research practice. The Faculty of CEG comprises 28 research groups in the following seven departments: Materials Mechanics Management & Design, Engineering Structures, Geoscience and Engineering, Geoscience and Remote Sensing, Transport & Planning, Hydraulic Engineering and Water Management.

Click here to go to the website of the Faculty of Civil Engineering & Geosciences.