Durham Energy Institute celebrates 15 years of innovation and collaboration

This milestone event, which took place on 7 November in Durham, UK, brought together a diverse group of experts, policymakers, and industry professionals to explore energy research and discuss pathways to achieve Net Zero.

At home with energy

This year’s event “At Home with Energy” focused on the crucial role of housing and communities in the energy transition.

Domestic heating and cooking are significant contributors to the UK’s greenhouse gas emissions, and the event addressed the complexities of transforming these practices across diverse households.

The free event focused on energy use in everyday lives, covering topics such as how households can reduce their carbon emissions, and how our researchers are shaping the future of energy.

Battling carbon

Speakers and delegates considered the complex challenge of reducing carbon emissions within our homes.

As domestic energy use accounts for a significant portion of the UK's greenhouse gas emissions, transforming how we heat, cook, and power our households is crucial to meeting climate goals.

A panel of experts explored the current landscape of domestic energy consumption and its environmental impact and outlined innovative technologies and practices for home energy efficiency.

They also explained the socio-economic factors influencing the adoption of low-carbon solutions and discussed policy frameworks, incentives supporting domestic decarbonisation and the role of community initiatives in driving change.

Innovative approaches to energy challenges

The event showcased innovative approaches to energy challenges developed at the University.

Experts from our departments of Engineering, Law, Computer Science and Anthropology, explored multidisciplinary solutions for a sustainable energy future.

They also shared how their research and initiatives contribute to creating equitable and environmentally friendly energy systems, with a focus on practical applications for homes and communities.

Energy research and sustainability

Our experts provided insights into major strategic projects in energy research and sustainability, giving delegates an inspiring glimpse into the future of energy research and its potential impact to create more sustainable, efficient, and equitable home environments.

Adopting a fast-paced, carousel-style format, our early career research fellows at DEI, presented their groundbreaking projects, offering fresh perspectives on pressing energy challenges. 

In his keynote speech, Professor Paul Monks, Chief Scientific Officer, Department for Energy Security and Net Zero also shared insights on the role of homes in achieving Net Zero, drawing from his experience of providing independent and impartial scientific advice to Ministers and policy makers.

Find out more

• Durham Energy Institute is a leading centre for energy research, bringing together experts from various disciplines to tackle some of the most pressing energy challenges of our time. 
• Visit the Durham Energy Institute’s YouTube channel.