– It is significant to see how work in sustainable energy has developed over these past four decades. We are proud to have contributed to the global energy transition and look forward to continued work with innovative solutions that can benefit both the local community and the world at large, says Chris Bales, Professor of Energy Engineering, who has been active in the field at the University since 1992.
Research that began with the establishment of the Solar Energy Research Centre in 1984 (the centre is now called Sustainable Energy Research Centre – SERC) has been central to advances in sustainable energy technology. This centre has since evolved to include a broader sustainability perspective, where the focus has shifted from solely solar energy to sustainable energy in general. The centre has established itself as a leader in research and education at several levels, with around 50 people at the University actively involved in its activities.
– Having focused on energy research for so long, we have been able to train the next generation of energy researchers and engineers who will be instrumental in the green transition. Our students gain expertise in solar energy and sustainable energy systems, skills that are sought by both Swedish industry and international partners, says André Augusto, Professor of Energy Engineering and head of the research centre.
Dalarna University offers both specialised courses at the Master’s level and postgraduate courses, which has helped spread expertise in solar energy and sustainable energy systems in Sweden and internationally. In addition, the centre offers courses and seminars for companies, authorities, and the public as a way to increase understanding of solar energy and its possibilities.
Currently, the research centre collaborates at a national level within the Solar Electricity Research Centre Sweden (SOLVE) and heads several research areas. With support from Region Dalarna, the centre is investing in practical research through the financing of a new research facility on Campus Borlänge with a focus on solar energy and battery systems. The facility will benefit researchers, local industry, and the education sector.
In the future, SERC will integrate research from several disciplines, including energy and the built environment, computer science, industrial technology, economics, and the social sciences.
Our goal is to strengthen collaboration both regionally and internationally in the development of sustainable energy solutions that can support businesses here in Dalarna and elsewhere. By working closely with industry, we can help them develop and implement new technologies and processes that reduce climate impact, says André Augusto, head of the research centre.
SERC - History and Development
SERC was founded in 1984 as Dalarna University’s first research group, and it has since developed into a leading centre for solar and sustainable energy research and education on multiple levels. As a new (2024) interdisciplinary research centre, SERC has established itself at Dalarna University with the aim of fostering interdisciplinary research in energy and supporting industry and society in the sustainable and inclusive energy transition.
From Solar to Sustainable
The centre integrates research across several fields, including energy and civil engineering, data science, industrial engineering, economics, and social sciences. The acronym "SERC" pays tribute to the legacy of the original Solar Energy Research Centre, founded in 1984, and reflects the broader sustainability focus that now defines the centre’s mission.
Milestones in Solar Energy Research at Dalarna University
- 1984: SERC (Solar Energy Research Centre) is founded.
- 1989: The first in the world to introduce graphical interfaces for energy calculation software.
- 1991: First PhD candidate begins studies.
- 1993: Sweden’s then largest grid-connected solar power installation at the time is established at Dalarna University, with support from Borlänge Energi.
- 1997: First major EU project, the EMA Solar Collector, is launched.
- 1999: One-year master’s programme in solar energy technology is introduced.
- 2010: New facilities and laboratories are opened.
- 2013: Launch of the three-year energy engineering programme and two-year master’s programme in solar energy technology.
- 2015: Tenth PhD graduate in energy completes studies.
- 2022: SOLVE project commences and doctoral studies in built environment energy systems are launched.
- 2024: SERC re-establishes as the Sustainable Energy Research Centre.
