Digital twin of heat pumps integrated with thermal energy storage

Electrification of heating supply will have massive impacts on the electricity grid. A highly electrified heating sector may cause large demand transient and peaks/troughs when many heat pumps are switched near-simultaneously, potentially destabilising the operation of networks. Heat supply also has complicated interdependence and interactions with other sectors such as industry and renewable power generation.

This project aims to develop models to quantify the impacts of heat electrification, to develop solutions through demand side management using heat storages, and to quantify the flexibility provided by heat storages and exploit it. Based on the obtained understanding, the project aims to establish a digital twin of an exemplar heating system that integrates heat pumps with thermal energy storage to explore and demonstrate how such flexible heating systems could manage heat demand in response to weather forecasts, and thus minimise their impact on the electricity grid collectively. 

The student is expected to work on the modelling side of the digital twin, including advanced modelling of heating system (heat pump integrated with heat storage), machine learning models for heat demand forecasting, etc.

The student will have a great opportunity to work in a large consortium with researchers from Strathclyde, Herriot Watt, St Andrew Universities, and industrial partner Scottish Power Energy Power networks.  

We want all of our staff and Students to feel that Liverpool is an inclusive and welcoming environment that actively celebrates and encourages diversity. We are committed to working with students to make all reasonable project adaptations including supporting those with caring responsibilities, disabilities or other personal circumstances. For example, If you have a disability you may be entitled to a Disabled Students Allowance on top of your studentship to help cover the costs of any additional support that a person studying for a doctorate might need as a result.

We believe everyone deserves an excellent education and encourage students from all backgrounds and personal circumstances to apply.

Applicant Eligibility

Candidates will have, or be due to obtain, a Master’s Degree or equivalent from a reputable University in an appropriate field of Engineering. Exceptional candidates with a First Class Bachelor’s Degree in an appropriate field will also be considered.

Application Process

Candidates wishing to apply should complete the University of Liverpool application form [How to apply for a PhD - University of Liverpool] applying for a PhD in Mechanical Engineering and uploading: Degree Certificates & Transcripts, an up-to-date CV, a covering letter/personal statement and two academic references.