Luleå University of Technology Shaping the Future of Energy Systems

Researchers at Luleå University of Technology represent Sweden in several international research initiatives within the technology platforms of the International Energy Agency (IEA). Their expertise in the field makes the university a key player in advancing knowledge about sustainable energy solutions for the future.

Luleå University of Technology is strengthening its position as a key player in energy research by having researchers serve as Swedish delegates in strategic research initiatives, known as Tasks, within the IEA’s Technology Collaboration Programmes (TCP). Through these initiatives, the researchers contribute to expanding and disseminating knowledge on new solutions for flexible bioenergy processes, energy system modeling, biomass and waste gasification, hydrogen technology, and industrial biorefineries—areas that are crucial for the energy transition.

"Having skilled researchers representing Sweden in several IEA programs highlights the strong expertise we have in the energy field at Luleå University of Technology. Our engagement allows us to influence the development of future sustainable energy systems on a global scale," says Marcus Öhman, Head of Division and Professor in Energy Engineering at Luleå University of Technology.

Expertise in Bioenergy, Hydrogen Technology, and Energy Systems

One of the researchers with key roles in the IEA’s research programs is Anna Krook Riekkola, Associate Professor of Energy Engineering, who is the national representative in IEA Bioenergy Task 44, focusing on flexible bioenergy systems and system integration. She is also the Swedish delegate in IEA ETSAP, a platform for the use and development of advanced techno-economic models aimed at analyzing how the energy system can transition to meet future needs and societal goals.

"Our analyses and models provide decision-makers with better tools to plan future energy systems. By being part of IEA collaborations, we can ensure that research and practical application go hand in hand," says Anna Krook Riekkola.

Top row from left: Anna Krook-Riekkola and Fredrik Granberg. Bottom row from left: Joakim Lundgren, Cecilia Wallmark and Marcus Öhman.

Creating resource-efficient and climate-smart solutions

Joakim Lundgren, Professor of Energy Engineering, has been the Swedish delegate since 2019 and is now Vice Task Leader for IEA Bioenergy Task 33, which focuses on the gasification of biomass and waste-based raw materials for a sustainable energy future. He also leads the task’s activities on syngas-based hydrogen production.

"Gasification technology has great potential to contribute to a fossil-free energy supply, particularly within industry and the transport sector. Through our work in IEA Bioenergy Task 33, we can help create conditions for increased implementation of various gasification technologies," says Joakim Lundgren.

Fredrik Granberg, CEO of LTU Green Fuels and Project Manager in Energy Engineering, has recently been invited to join a Swedish working group within IEA IETS Task XI, which focuses on how industrial biorefineries can contribute to increased sustainability.

"We see a growing interest in biorefineries as part of the circular economy. By developing new processes and integrating them into existing industrial systems, we can create resource-efficient and climate-smart solutions," says Fredrik Granberg.

Additionally, Cecilia Wallmark, Director of the Centre for Hydrogen Energy Systems Sweden (CH2ESS), is engaged in the IEA Hydrogen TCP, where researchers and industrial actors collaborate on advancements in hydrogen technology.

A Driving Force in the Global Energy Transition

Luleå University of Technology’s extensive involvement in the IEA’s research programs is proof of the expertise and innovative capacity within the university’s energy research. The researchers' work not only contributes to technological development but also to strategic decisions that impact the energy transition both in Sweden and internationally.

"It is through international collaboration that we can find the best solutions for future energy systems. By being an active part of the IEA’s network, we can drive development forward and ensure that Sweden remains at the forefront, contributing to a global sustainable energy transition," says Marcus Öhman.

• Energy Engineering
  

• LTU Green Fuels
• Centre for Hydrogen Energy Systems Sweden