Therese Peffer, PhD

Current Position

Project Manager & Researcher at California Institute for Energy and Environment (CIEE), University of California, Berkeley

Expertise

  • Smart Building Technologies

  • Building-to-Grid Systems

  • Demand Response

  • Smart Grid Research

  • Sustainable Urban Development

Professional Experience

Dr. Therese Peffer has over 20 years of experience in energy efficiency and sustainable building research. She currently serves as an Associate Director for CIEE and for the CITRIS Climate initiative. Dr. Peffer manages and conducts research focused on creating comfortable and energy-efficient livable spaces, with a particular emphasis on building electrification and decarbonization.

Throughout her career, Dr. Peffer has led numerous projects, including the Energy Commission funded EcoBlock and large commercial decarbonization projects. She also supports Frontier Energy in an SDG&E-funded project to train contractors in high-quality HVAC system installation and maintenance for homes.

Education

  • Ph.D. in Architecture with an emphasis on building science, University of California, Berkeley

  • Master's degree in Architecture, University of Oregon

Contributions to Building Electrification

Dr. Peffer has been instrumental in advancing building electrification through her work on the Oakland EcoBlock project. This groundbreaking initiative integrates shared solar energy systems, battery storage, heat pump innovations, and water efficiency measures to create a model of sustainable living in Oakland's Fruitvale neighborhood.

Clubhouse Participation

Dr. Peffer was a valued panelist in the "Oakland's Groundbreaking EcoBlock Project Update" discussion, where she shared insights on the latest developments and future plans of the EcoBlock project, emphasizing its role in decarbonization and deep sustainability retrofits.

Connect with Therese

Dr. Therese Peffer generously contributed her expertise to the Building Electrification Clubhouse, hosted by BIG Oakland, demonstrating her commitment to advancing sustainable urban development and knowledge sharing in our community. Her work on the EcoBlock project showcases innovative approaches to neighborhood-scale electrification and sustainability.