SEEDS was pleased to take part in the 4th International Sustainable Energy Conference – ISEC 2026, held from 14 to 16 April 2026 at Messecongress Graz, Austria.

The event brought together researchers, industry representatives, policymakers and energy experts to discuss the future of the energy transition and the role of innovative technologies in building a more sustainable energy system.

Day 2 highlights

The second day of the conference opened with a Plenary & Welcome Session, chaired by Dr. Gabriela-Maria Strakafrom respACT Austrian Business Council for Sustainable Development.

The morning keynotes offered valuable perspectives on the different dimensions of the energy transition. Prof. Dr. Michelle Shipworth from UCL explored the human and social aspects of the transition, while Dr. Andreas Hauer from ZAE Bayern focused on the value of flexibility through energy storage. Prof. Dr. Lieve Helsen from KU Leuvenpresented insights on physics-based intelligence for the decarbonisation of the built environment, highlighting the importance of combining data-driven innovation with strong physical modelling.

These discussions strongly echoed the objectives of SEEDS, where smarter, more flexible and more efficient heating and cooling solutions are at the heart of the project.

Digitalisation and AI for Renewable Heating and Cooling

A key moment of the day was the special session co-organised by RHC-ETIP, dedicated to Digitalisation and AI as enablers for Renewable Heating and Cooling technologies.

The session explored how digital tools, artificial intelligence and advanced control strategies can support the deployment of innovative heating and cooling solutions across buildings, districts and industries.

Among the presentations, Lucas Verleyen, representing the KU Leuven SySi Team, presented work on physics-based model predictive control. His contribution highlighted how Model Predictive Control can act as a strong system integrator, helping to make heating and cooling systems smarter, more affordable, sustainable and resilient.

Key takeaways

Several important messages emerged from the session. Digitalisation and AI are becoming essential tools to improve system performance, scalability and market uptake across Renewable Heating and Cooling technologies. At the same time, the discussions highlighted the need for trusted data, interoperable frameworks and strong skills development to ensure that these technologies can be used effectively in real-life applications.

For SEEDS, these exchanges were particularly valuable, as the project works on smart and sustainable solutions for heating and cooling, combining technical innovation with practical deployment in pilot sites.

Thank you

SEEDS warmly thanks Dr. Gabriela-Maria Straka, Prof. Dr. Michelle Shipworth, Dr. Andreas Hauer, Prof. Dr. Lieve Helsen, Lucas Verleyen, the KU Leuven SySi Team, RHC-ETIP, and all speakers, moderators and participants for the inspiring discussions and valuable exchanges.

Events such as ISEC 2026 are key opportunities to connect research, innovation and practical solutions, while strengthening collaboration around the future of sustainable energy in Europe and beyond. 🌍