Research group “Socio-Technical Energy Futures” (Zukünfte)

The transformation of the energy system toward climate compatibility and sustainability is embedded in a dynamic system of available technologies and economic exchange relations. Individual and societal needs and desires will also be important drivers shaping the future energy system. A deepened knowledge of the resulting interactions is required to find concepts that enable sustainable transformation.

In exploring such concepts, the work of the research group currently focuses on a) participation in and governance of transformation processes and b) sustainability of local energy systems in the context of innovative water infrastructures.

The research on participation and governance seeks ways and means to involve societies in the transformation of energy systems. This includes the identification of drivers and obstacles that characterize the transformation of the energy system.

The sustainability performance of local energy systems can be improved through innovative transformation of water infrastructures. The research aims to identify local and regional conditions that enable sustainable interdependence between the energy and water systems.

The research group also intends to contribute to the methodological and conceptual development of research into the drivers and barriers of energy system transformation.

Current projects
Title Project team Start

2023

2023

2023

2023

2023

2022

2021

2021

2020

2020

2020

2020

2019

2018