The building sector is central to achieving the European Union’s climate neutrality target by 2050, accounting for about 40% of final energy consumption and representing the largest energy-consuming sector in Europe. The recast Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) strengthens the role of Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) in evaluating building performance, extending the focus beyond operational energy to include embodied emissions. This research aims to support the decarbonization of the building sector by addressing both operational and embodied impacts over the entire life cycle. Energy system optimization models will be used to identify optimal technological pathways for decarbonization in both buildings and construction-related industries. The resulting scenarios will be assessed through LCA to quantify environmental impacts and trade-offs among technological, economic, and policy options. The PhD will develop an integrated framework aligned with the EPBD, focusing on minimum energy performance standards and renovation trajectories (Article 9), targeting the worst-performing buildings and reducing energy demand. The methodology integrates bottom-up optimization models with scenario analysis to identify cost-optimal pathways. Environmental performance will be evaluated across all life cycle stages. Expected outcomes include optimal renovation strategies, policy recommendations, and a decision-support framework for a sustainable built environment.
Strong analytical and quantitative skills are required, including knowledge of energy system modeling and Life Cycle Assessment (LCA). Familiarity with programming tools (e.g., Python) and data analysis is essential. A background in energy engineering, environmental engineering, or related fields is expected, along with the ability to work with policy frameworks such as the EPBD. Good communication and interdisciplinary research skills are necessary. Proficiency in English is required; knowledge of Italian is considered an asset.
RELAB (Renewable Heating and Cooling Lab) research group at Politecnico di Milano, Department of Energy, led by Prof. Mario Motta. The research focuses on refrigerants and cycle configurations for heat pumps, including analysis, modelling, and validation. The group conducts research on energy systems for buildings and districts, including experimental activities, dynamic simulations, energy planning, and life cycle assessment (LCA). The research group collaborates with numerous companies, research centers, laboratories, and Italian and international universities through private contracts and national and international research projects.