Thesis Title: Exploring the Thermal Demand Response Potential of English Households Using Electric Heating Systems
Tell us about your work and time with the ERBE CDT
Being part of the ERBE CDT has been a hugely rewarding experience. The programme provided a structured and supportive environment to develop my research alongside training in systems thinking, stakeholder engagement, and interdisciplinary collaboration. One of the most valuable aspects was the support and sense of community across institutions and cohorts — from workshops to residentials, I always felt part of something bigger than just my own project.
What was your PhD about?
My research explored how buildings can better support the electricity grid by responding flexibly to signals like real-time prices or carbon intensity. I looked at how single dwellings could temporarily reduce demand to reduce strain on the grid by lowering setpoint temperatures. The work involved modelling different dwelling types and assessing their impacts from both a system and building-user perspective. Ultimately, the aim was to identify and quantify the factors influencing thermal demand response potential in English dwellings, and understand how this could impact policy decisions in practice to help deliver a low-carbon, reliable energy system.
What were the highlights of your PhD/ERBE?
There were many highlights, but some standout moments include presenting my work at international events in Scotland, France and Belgium, collaborating with world-leading researchers across the IEA Annex 82 Collaboration, and engaging with industry partners to help shape real-world flexibility use cases. On a more personal level, the friendships and peer support within the ERBE cohort and wider school community made a big difference throughout the ups and downs of the PhD journey.
Read more about George on the ERBE profile or his LinkTree