David Barns

I am a postdoctoral researcher focused the role of thermal storage in the energy transition. I’m currently employed as a Research Fellow in the School of Civil Engineering at the University of Leeds.

Throughout my career I have combined professional roles in the public and private sector with further academic study to advance my knowledge and understanding around the defining challenge of our time, tackling the climate and ecological emergency. Prior to taking up taking up postgraduate study I spent three years working on a range of low carbon heating, energy storage and renewables projects for a high-profile London borough. Alongside my academic and professional work I am an active campaigner on issues of climate and social justice.

My postgraduate research has focused on the role of thermal energy storage in urban heat decarbonisation. Alongside a detailed investigation of technological options, taking an interdisciplinary sociotechnical approach I have explored aspects of national policy and regulation, the role of local government and the planning system, development of new business models to support viability, and role of organisational actors in the energy transition.