Dr. Prof. Maarten Messagie manages R&D&I activities at the Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) in order to support the transition towards a sustainable energy system. He works in the research center MOBI of the VUB in which he co-leads the research unit EVERGi. The interdisciplinary research unit EVERGi has more than 25 dedicated researchers on sustainable multi-energy systems, including the integration of electric (and automated) vehicles with local energy communities and thermal grids. EVERGi developed and operates together with the ‘Green Energy Park’, a research co-creation platform and living lab, demonstrating real-life applications of crucial elements in the energy transition. The interdisciplinary team of EVERGi develops advanced new methods, including data-driven models based on machine learning, design optimizations, energy management, sustainability evaluation, Life Cycle Assessment, levelized cost of energy, and social impact studies.