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Description
The main goal of the project is to increase the use of technologies with low carbon emissions by installing local electricity production from a photovoltaic system (PV) supported with a battery storage (BS) on the roof / in the building of the Faculty of electrical engineering and computing (FER) and thus to support local, national and global fight against climate change. Besides the main goal, the target of the project if to reduce the impact on the local power grid, to reduce FERs’ electricity bills, to educate and to promote the importance and ways of integrating local PV and BS to the wider community, to open the potential of new research and to promote the possibility of funding such projects from Program “Energy and Climate Change” from EGP and similar. During the process FER will install additional 631,9 kW (600 kW in inverters) of photovoltaic capacity (along with the existing 84 kW) and adequately dimensioned BS. By doing this, more than 690 MWh of renewable electricity will be produced locally (achieving Outcome 2: “Increase production from Renewable Energy Sources”), reducing CO2 emissions for more than 110 tons, significantly reducing the impact on local power infrastructure (reducing the maximum power in average by 113 kW and reducing the consumed electricity during peak tariffs for around 650 MWh) and cutting down the costs for FERs’ electricity by more than 700.000 kn a year (achieving Outcome 1: “Improving energy efficiency”).
Through promotional, educational and research activities FER will conduct multiple workshops and media casts with the goal in increasing awareness about climate change, the necessity of transforming the energy system to low/zero carbon system emphasizing the value of local renewable generation. Besides improving own capacities for management and promotion of renewable energy sources, FER will contribute to increasing those capacities with the stakeholders of the project as well.
Summary of project results
The project aimed to tackle several pressing challenges in energy sustainability and efficiency. The Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computing (FER) at the University of Zagreb faced high energy costs due to reliance on conventional electricity sources. The lack of renewable energy systems on-site contributed to significant operational expenses and a carbon footprint inconsistent with national and EU climate goals. Additionally, FER lacked infrastructure for large-scale integration of renewable energy, which limited opportunities for research, education, and broader societal impact. Addressing these challenges required the installation of advanced photovoltaic (PV) systems and battery storage solutions to enhance local renewable energy production. The project also sought to promote awareness of renewable energy benefits and provide practical examples of integrating such systems into existing infrastructure. By tackling these issues, the project aligned with the "Energy and Climate Change" program''s objectives of reducing carbon emissions and improving energy efficiency.
The project implemented various activities to achieve its goals. It involved the procurement and installation of a state-of-the-art photovoltaic system with a capacity of 631.9 kW, complemented by a battery storage system. The implementation process included project design, procurement, technical oversight, and final testing to ensure seamless integration into the faculty’s infrastructure. In addition to technical advancements, the project emphasized education and awareness. Five official workshops were held to educate students, faculty members, and the general public about renewable energy systems. The project team also conducted additional informal sessions and presentations for international visitors, school groups, and professional organizations. A robust media campaign was executed to raise public awareness, which included appearances on television, social media updates, and the publication of informational materials. These efforts collectively enhanced technical capacity, raised awareness, and demonstrated the viability of integrating renewable energy into existing infrastructure.
The project delivered significant results, benefiting various stakeholders. The newly installed photovoltaic system, combined with the battery storage unit, is expected to produce over 690 MWh of renewable energy annually. This will reduce FER’s carbon emissions by more than 110 tons per year and decrease its energy costs by over €150,000 annually. These outcomes directly benefit FER by improving its energy efficiency and reducing operational expenses. Furthermore, the project strengthened the faculty’s capacity for research and education in renewable energy, creating opportunities for further innovation and international collaboration. Students and researchers gained hands-on experience with cutting-edge technology, while workshops and public outreach activities educated broader audiences on the importance of transitioning to sustainable energy sources. Indirectly, the project sets an example for other institutions and industries, showcasing the feasibility and benefits of renewable energy systems in achieving sustainability goals.