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3 Reading engineers take top prizes
Three University of Reading students have shared this year’s Panasonic
Trust Project Presentation Prizes. Awarded for the best presentation of a
final year project, the MSc in Renewable Energy: Technology and
Sustainability class of 2008 surpassed themselves, with the judges being
impressed by both the depth and understanding of the complexities of the
subject material presented.
Those awarded prizes included Jenny Berger whose project was concerned with
investigating the feasibility of achieving net zero carbon emissions on the
main university campus. Her conclusions not only proved this could be done
through innovative use of renewable and biomass sources, but also went on to
question the ability of the current definition of zero carbon to achieve
governmental aspirations.
Continuing with the subject of carbon reduction,
David Lim looked at
developing a carbon reduction strategy for the Old Deanery in Wells. The
12th Century Grade 1 listed building presented a number of challenges,
particularly in respect of planning restrictions. As this meant that no
renewable schemes could be implemented, David showed how a combination of a
more efficiently controlled heating system and energy saving protocols for
staff coupled with a carbon offsetting project was the most effective way of
reducing the total impact from the building’s operation.
Finally and adding an international flavor to the proceedings,
Martha Mburu
spoke on a her study which looked at using the vast amounts of as yet
unexploited geothermal energy in Kenya.
Each prize winner received £1,000 and a Panasonic Trust Gold Medal
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