The Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) has recently awarded Dr Andrew David Quinn, Senior Lecturer in Atmospheric Science and Engineering, with funding to develop an innovative whole system research project that could help transform the way Birmingham and other cities use energy.

The project, Transforming Birmingham - a city system approach, aims to provide decision-makers in the public and private sectors with a user-friendly dynamic model to assess the impact of changes in the energy system. It is hoped improved modelling will support the adoption of more energy-efficient infrastructure, resulting in reduced CO2 emissions and other pollutants, benefiting the UK and the wider world.

 Over the last ten years there has been a wide body of research undertaken on whole energy systems and the potential for greater energy efficiency and reducing our dependence on fossil fuels. The Transforming Birmingham project aims to improve on previous projects by incorporating not only energy systems but also waste, air quality, legacy housing stock, new build and transport issues into its model. In so doing, the project aims to help policy makers make more informed decision as to the best way to decarbonise a city.

 Transforming Birmingham will run from May to October 2017. You can find out more by visiting the project page on the EPSRC website.