Interdisciplinary Research Tracks
In addition to the interdisciplinary threads mentioned on the previous pages, the STEPS program will aim to look at four main transportation energy categories.
Hydrogen
We will continue research conducted under the Hydrogen Pathways
Program exploring new areas such as hydrogen/electricity systems,
conducting regional transition case studies, understanding the impact
of alternative policies, and enhancing key hydrogen pathways models for
infrastructure development strategies. Additional work will focus on
the interaction between hydrogen and existing infrastructure, such as
electricity and natural gas.
Biofuels
This track will build upon UC Davis’s current work within the
California Biomass Collaborative and the considerable agricultural and
biological expertise of the university. The biofuels track will
include analysis of various biorefinery production systems,
infrastructure strategies, environmental & land-use impacts, &
vehicle analysis. Policy and business strategies related to production
and distribution of biofuels will also be evaluated.
Electricity
Electricity production methods, total grid capacity, and time-of-day charging impacts on the utility sector will be studied. Vehicle-to-grid recharging methods and policies will be evaluated and optimized. Additionally, research will be conducted on consumer behavior and preferences for electric drive attributes, including all-electric range and charging time.
Fossil Fuels
This track includes both the “business as usual” reference case, where petroleum-based fuels continue to dominate transportation energy, and the evolution of fuels produced from other fossil fuel resources, including tar sands, oil shale, and coal with carbon sequestration. Expanded use of diesel fuel will also be studied. Policies and business strategies will again be investigated with respect to fossil fuel research strategy, economic impacts, environmental impacts, and strategic behavior.
Five students graduate from STEPS Program