The Institute for Renewable Energy conducts applied research on advanced energy systems, based on or including sustainable energy sources.

Its activities include national and international research projects, as well as direct cooperation with industry partners. Industry-related projects normally involve the development of new products and the evaluation of technological solutions. The Institute also supports the promotion of renewable energy technologies and assists political decision-makers the scientific consultancy.​

The Institute's research involves the extensive use of dynamic simulation and multiphysics modelling of advanced energy systems and buildings.​​

Scientific results are based on laboratory tests of single components and integrated energy systems, as well as the monitoring of applied demonstration sites, experimental outdoor installations and residential buildings. The Institute offers support also in the elaboration of complex energy models as decision support system for single energy systems or buildings as well as for urban and regional areas.

The Institute is structured into five research groups:

• SUSTAINABLE HEATING AND COOLING SYSTEMS​​ focusing on hybrid and efficient heating and cooling systems for buildings, industry and sustainable districts
• PHOTOVOLTAIC ENERGY SYSTEMS​ focusing on the analysis of solar resources, performance and reliability of PV modules and systems and their integration into buildings and electricity grids
• ENERGY EFFICIENT BUILDINGS​ focusing on energy flexible buildings, façade systems concepts, solutions for natural ventilation and daylighting, cost optimal solution-sets for NZEB with high IEQ​​
• ENERGY RETROFIT OF HISTORIC BUILDINGS​​​ focusing on energy performance of historic buildings and districts, conservation aspects in retrofit solutions and energy planning​
• URBAN AND REGIONAL ENERGY SYSTEMS​​​ focusing on sustainable energy planning, decision support system, ​big data frameworks, economic and financial evaluations of energy solutions
• OVERALL ENERGY SYSTEM MODELLING AND E-MOBILITY focuses on modelling of overall energy systems integrating different energy sources, efficient measures and storage. Research also focuses on enabling a rapid transition to electromobility in public, private and freight transport.

Find more information about the Institute and Eurac Research here.