Virtual defense approved by CEE Graduate Committee on February 16, 2023

Ph.D. Thesis Defense Announcement

Housing for Resilience and Equity: Accounting for the Effects of Electrification and Climate-Induced Human Mobility in Decision Support Tools

By

Alexandra Maxim

Advisor(s):

Dr. Emily Grubert (CEE)

Committee Members:

Dr. Iris Tien (CEE), Dr. Joe Bozeman III (CEE), Dr. Clio Andris (CP), Dr. Elora Raymond (CP)

Date & Time: April 27th at 1:00pm

Location: Virtual on Zoom https://gatech.zoom.us/j/5802209841

Abstract
This dissertation explores the relationship between climate change, climate-induced human mobility, 
and decarbonization. The research finds that climate change will cause regional population shifts 
and increase housing needs in certain areas exacerbating existing challenges related to energy 
burden, demographic disparities, safety, and health issues in the current housing stock. 
Additionally, the decarbonization of the electric grid and the electrification of households will 
impact grid resilience, particularly on extremely cold days. The research in this dissertation 
highlights the urgent need for comprehensive policies and strategies that address the intersection 
of these complex challenges, including the development of resilient and energy- efficient housing, 
the integration of climate adaptation, migration planning, and the enhancement of grid resilience 
through innovative solutions. The findings provide insights for policymakers, planners, and 
practitioners working on climate change, housing, and energy with implications for sustainable and 
equitable urban development in face of climate change.

Keywords: climate change, climate-induced human mobility, infrastructure systems, spatial analysis, 
energy justice, just transition, planning, communities, passive survivability, thermal energy 
storage, peak demand, residential heating, extreme temperature, scenario analysis,
energy efficiency