Benson Lab Sally Benson

Research

The Benson Lab, established in 2007, conducts research to advance a low carbon energy future through innovation in carbon storage, energy system modeling, and campus-scale building optimization. With nearly two decades of experience, our work combines laboratory experiments, systems analysis, and real-world field studies to address energy challenges across a wide range of systems and contexts, including the pore space of rocks, the electricity grid, and campus energy infrastructure. Learn more about our research projects below.

Research Areas

Smart Campus Energy Systems

Stanford’s campus serves as a living lab for building energy efficiency and optimization. Our research develops data-driven, scalable control strategies for flexible, resilient campus energy systems. 

Learn more here.

Research Areas

Carbon Capture and Storage

Our lab examines geologic carbon dioxide (CO₂) sequestration in saline aquifers and secure CO₂ storage in diverse formations to advance scalable, long-term climate mitigation solutions.

Learn more here.

Research Areas

Energy System Modeling and Optimization

This initiative focuses on optimizing synergies within energy systems and across energy carriers to enhance flexibility, security, and affordability, while reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Learn more here.