– Strengthening our research environment and fostering collaboration across disciplines are essential to addressing the challenges of the energy transition. Our work at Dalarna University is already making an impact, and I look forward to continuing to develop innovative and socially relevant research, says André Augusto.
From Arizona to Dalarna – a Researcher’s Journey
In 2022, André was conducting applied research on photovoltaic materials at Arizona State University in the United States, where he worked in world-class laboratories. However, he found that the solar industry was advancing faster than academic research, which led him to rethink where he could make the greatest impact.
This reflection brought him to Dalarna University, where he saw an opportunity to work within a highly multidisciplinary and collaborative research group in energy and sustainability. Despite its relatively small size in the European context, the university’s Energy and Built Environments research group stood out for its ability to engage with communities, industry, and the public sector.
– Collaborative research is very important to me, and finding a group of scientists committed to working towards a common goal is increasingly rare. That’s what I found at Dalarna University, and that’s why I made the move, says André Augusto.
Research Focus – from Solar Energy to Sustainable Buildings
André’s research spans multiple fields, but his expertise in solar energy and lab-based research has played a key role in expanding the university’s capabilities. With support from Tillväxtverket and Region Dalarna, the solar and battery lab at the new campus is being developed to further experimental research. As part of efforts, the university is currently working on how to develop new monitoring methodologies for photovoltaic systems using machine learning and specialised imaging techniques. André collaborates actively with partners within the Nordic region to advance photovoltaic solutions tailored to the region's unique characteristics, which differ significantly from most other parts of the world.
His research also addresses the sustainability of photovoltaic systems, with a particular focus on developing new methodologies for lifecycle analyses, extending the lifespan of future photovoltaic systems, and identifying more sustainable solutions for end-of-life management and reuse of photovoltaic modules.
Strengthening Research in Dalarna, Sweden, and Beyond
Over the past year, André has played a key role in shaping the Sustainable Energy Research Centre (SERC), a multidisciplinary initiative that brings together researchers from various departments to advance energy and sustainability research. As Director of SERC, he leads efforts to strengthen collaboration between academia, industry, and the public sector.
– SERC was established to create a strong, interdisciplinary research environment that addresses real-world energy challenges. After one year, we have built a foundation for impactful research, but there is still much work to be done to drive innovation and sustainability forward, says André.
Nationally, he is involved in the Swedish Centre of Excellence – Solar Electricity Research Centre (SOLVE), where he leads the sustainability and lifecycle analysis workgroup together with RISE (Research Institutes of Sweden AB). Internationally, he represents Sweden in an International Energy Agency working group focused on photovoltaic sustainability, working alongside RISE and Chalmers University of Technology to promote best practices in the manufacturing, use, and disposal of photovoltaics.
Bringing Research into Education at Dalarna University
André believes in the importance of integrating research into education. One major initiative is the revision of the Master’s Programme in Solar Energy Engineering, which will include more lab-based courses and projects to better prepare students for the industry. Strengthening the university’s laboratory resources will benefit not only solar energy students but also those in other programmes through increased collaboration across departments.
Open Lectures with Newly Installed Professors – 16th of April
Professor André Augusto is one of six new professors who will be installed at the Dalarna University Academic Ceremony on March 21, 2025. As part of the celebrations, he will give an open lecture on his research and experiences. Welcome to Campus Borlänge on April 16th.
