“…Whilst there is no straightforward answer, research and development (R&D) in thermal energy management has been continuously attempted to find sustainable solutions. Sustainable Thermal Energy Management International Conferences (SusTEM) were organised in 2010, 2011 and 2015 -each was complemented by a special issue [1][2][3] to facilitate research dissemination and promote knowledge transfer. In spite of existing endeavours, more R&D is required to strive for continuous improvement and breakthroughs.…”