The University of Vaasa’s renovated campus will utilise renewable energy
The campus area of the University of Vaasa is going through a large-scale development project. The purpose is to create a vibrant meeting place and an innovative learning environment as well as to build a sustainable, energy self-sufficient campus.
“As a university located in the Nordic energy capital, we carry out large energy research projects as well as offer high-class education in energy technology and smart energy solutions. This campus development project allows us to use the modern energy solutions we study and teach about in our own operations”, says Raine Hermans, Dean of the School of Technology and Innovations.
“At the same time, our university’s research groups, such as Smart Electric Systems and Renewable Energy, are able to utilise the campus project in their research”, he adds.
Using carbon-neutral energy solutions – like geothermal heating and cooling, solar power, and batteries – and finding ways to maximise the use of locally produced renewable energy are at the forefront of the campus project. To ensure the efficient use of different technologies, the university’s energy and sustainable development research and innovation platform VEBIC’s, Vaasa Energy Business Innovation Centre’s, modern research infrastructure is utilised.
“We have three research laboratories, one of them being the FREESI-lab, or Future Reliable Electricity and Energy System Integration lab. There, our university’s researchers can create a digital twin of the campus and simulate it. In this way, we can better ensure the right amount of, for example, solar panels and batteries, and guarantee the security of energy supply”, explains Suvi Karirinne, Director of VEBIC.
The campus development project is estimated to be completed in 2024. On top of implementing new energy solutions, the university’s interiors are renovated to build a vivid campus that attracts new students and personnel. The project is carried out in alliance with different contractors and other partners.
