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Thermal Energy in Green Transition: Technologies, Integration, and Sustainability

Overview

Name

Thermal Energy in Green Transition: Technologies, Integration, and Sustainability

Application Deadline

2026-07-15

SDGs

7-Affordable and Clean Energy 9-Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure 13-Climate Action

Field of studies related to the programme

07 (Engineering, manufacturing and construction)

Programme description

This Blended Intensive Programme addresses the role of thermal energy in the green transition by combining theoretical foundations, technological developments and practical applications. Building on the academic value of a previous edition hosted by the University of Gaevle in June 2025, the 2026 edition offers participants an integrated perspective on thermal technologies, sustainability, energy conversion, storage, distribution and system integration.
The programme responds to current needs in education, research, industry and policy-making by focusing on sustainable thermal solutions, renewable energy integration and interdisciplinary approaches to thermal science. It also creates a platform for international cooperation among students, researchers, academic staff and industry stakeholders.
The main aim of the programme is to equip participants with advanced knowledge, practical skills and international perspectives related to sustainable thermal energy technologies and their contribution to the green transition.
• To introduce fundamental and advanced principles of thermal science, including thermodynamics and heat transfer.
• To examine current trends in thermal energy conversion, storage, distribution and renewable thermal energy systems.
• To explore the integration of thermal technologies into sustainable energy systems, including sector coupling and system integration.
• To develop participants’ ability to connect thermal energy concepts with their own research, study field or professional expertise.
• To foster international collaboration, academic networking and exchange of regional applications within the EU GREEN context.

Teaching hours in virtual mode

8.0

Teaching hours in presence mode

30.0

Main topics addressed during the programme

1. Fundamental principles governing thermal systems and energy conversion.
2. Conduction, convection, radiation and their relevance for thermal technologies.
3. Storage concepts, applications and integration into sustainable energy systems.
4. District heating, heat networks and efficient thermal distribution systems.
5. Geothermal energy, solar thermal systems, heat pumps and renewable sources for heating and cooling.
6. Digital tools, monitoring, modelling and data-supported approaches in thermal energy applications.
7. Integration of thermal energy with electricity, industry, buildings and wider sustainable energy systems.

Learning outcomes

Upon successful completion of the programme, participants will be able to:
• Explain key principles of thermodynamics, heat transfer and thermal energy systems in the context of sustainable development.
• Analyse the role of thermal energy storage, distribution and renewable thermal technologies in the green transition.
• Evaluate examples of thermal energy applications such as district heating, geothermal energy, heat pumps, solar thermal systems and energy storage solutions.
• Apply ICT-related methods and system integration concepts to thermal science problems.
• Develop and present an individual project connected to their own academic, research or professional background.
• Collaborate in an international and interdisciplinary learning environment.

Practical Details

Academic Year

2026-2027

Open to (type of candidate)

Master's Doctoral

Number of admitted participants

No

Coordinating University

University of Oradea

Core partner Universities

Atlantic Technological University University of Parma University of Gävle

Language of teaching

English

Language level required

B2

Duration of the programme (hours)

100

ECTS credits

4

In-presence Component

In-presence starting date

2026-10-19

In-presence closing date

2026-10-23

Programme location

Oradea

Virtual Component

Virtual component starting date

2026-09-01

Virtual component closing date

2026-10-16

Assessment

Form of assesssment

Before the in-presence component, each participant will complete an assignment connected to their field of study, research topic or professional expertise. The assignment will enable participants to relate programme content to country-specific, regional or sectoral applications of thermal technologies within the EU GREEN member countries.
Assessment may include active participation in online and in-presence sessions, completion of the individual project, contribution to workshops and discussions, and presentation or sharing of the project outcomes during the programme. The assessment approach supports both academic development and practical application of knowledge.

Requirements

Academic pre-requisites for applicants

The course is intended for Master’s students, Doctoral students, young researchers and staff with an academic or professional interest in engineering and technology for sustainable development. Relevant fields include Energy Engineering, Environmental Sciences, Engineering and related areas connected to thermal energy

Application requirements

Motivation letter Europass CV

Selection Process

About the lecturers

Coordinator

Codruta Bendea