New Publication Alert: How Advanced Decision Support Tools Can Enhance Energy Efficiency in Industries

New Publication

We have pleasure in announcing the latest publication from the FLEX4FACT project, How Advanced Decision Support Tools Can Enhance Energy Efficiency in Industries, developed by our partner University College Cork (UCC) and published in the journal Energy.

Introducing the SanFlex-DST Tool

As part of the FLEX4FACT project, UCC’s Intelligent Efficiency Research Group has developed an innovative web-based tool called SanFlex-DST. This tool is designed to revolutionize energy management in industrial sectors by providing clear and actionable insights into energy flows, renewable energy integration, and opportunities for decarbonization.

Key Features of SanFlex-DST

  • Sankey Diagram Visualization: The tool utilizes Sankey diagrams to map and visualize current energy flows, enabling users to understand where energy is being used and where improvements can be made.
  • Renewable Energy and Storage Integration: SanFlex-DST highlights the potential benefits of incorporating renewable energy sources and energy storage technologies, providing a pathway to reducing fossil fuel dependence.
  • Heat Recovery for Thermal Energy Systems: The study explores how heat recovery within thermal energy storage systems can further enhance energy efficiency and lower reliance on non-renewable energy.

Supporting Informed Decision-Making

By offering a clear visual representation of energy consumption patterns, SanFlex-DST empowers industries to make informed decisions in the planning stage. It identifies opportunities for decarbonization, supports continuous improvement in energy efficiency, and promotes sustainable practices within the industrial sector.

For full access to the open-access publication, visit the link here: Read the full paper

We extend our gratitude to the UCC team: Arman Ashabi, Dominic O’ Sullivan, Ken Bruton, Andriy Hryshchenko, and Mohamed Mostafa for their excellent work on this project.