A smart experimental residence for students
Per Lundqvist is involved in developing a unique student residence that will be equipped with smart and energy efficient solutions. He has done research in such areas as energy conversion and making energy use more efficient, with a view towards sustainable development.
He takes the third leg of KTH's Research Relay, which he starts by answering Maria Håkansson's question:
What is the most important prerequisite in order for future energy systems to contribute to environmental development?
“That we can find a balance in the energy system between energy efficiency, large- and small-scale renewable energy, and the necessary energy storage. We also need to develop viable business models so that sustainable lifestyles and choices are rewarded.”
Thanks for that. What is the next step in your research?
“With a major construction company, we will build a unique experimental residence building on campus, comprising 270 student apartments. It will be called KTH Live-in-Lab. The aim is to speed up the pace of innovation in terms of energy efficiency, integrated renewable energy, indoor air quality and smart home solutions, among other things.”
What are the barriers or challenges, if any?
“The challenge right now is finding the right creative combination of partners here at KTH for the project's first phase. The building will be ready for the campus’ centennial, in 2017. We also need to agree with the Academic House on the requirements for the construction; but things are well underway.”
What will it be used for?
“KTH Live-in-Lab will be a unique open test arena at KTH for innovative energy technologies, IT and design, addressing both construction and housing issues. It is impossible to predict everything that it will used for! It will be an exciting journey.”
Here is the question that Lundqvist wants to forward to the next participant in our Research Relay:
If you got the chance to try some completely new concept (it can be a technique, a process, an apparatus, or a service) that can be applied in student housing to make it easier for students to choose a more sustainable way of life - what would it be?
Jill Klackenberg