Holistic energy transition
My commitment to a holistic energy transition
The sustainable production and consumption of energy is much more than a challenge for engineers.
When I think about the energy transition, I don’t focus on how large wind and solar parks are operated, the advantages of biogas facilities or the controversial expansion of existing power grids.
Instead, I want to understand how these infrastructure projects and our desire for CO2-neutral energy production can positively change our societies in the long term.
My applied research is designed to fill a gap in the current discourse by appealing to people who are affected by the energy transition, but who don’t feel particularly well addressed by public discussions on this issue.
Releasing energy through quality communication
Ideally, a holistic and inclusive view of the energy transition should not differentiate between factors such as the consumption of resources for power generation, the environment and social challenges like participation, equality and equal opportunities.
So how we can promote democratic processes and participation in relation to the energy transition and make sure the transition is socially inclusive and environmentally friendly? How can centralized energy and power structures be transformed into decentralized, transparent energy systems that not only appeal to corporations, but also to grass roots initiatives and citizens? And how do we reduce energy poverty to make the living conditions in Europe and around the world more equal? This perspective requires an equally holistic, inclusive and public dialogue about the energy transition.
That’s why I collaborate with projects like Dialog Energie, which is run by a transdisciplinary team together with citizens, city administrators and engineers (link only available in German). As the name suggests, the project aims to include as many people as possible in the energy transition discussion.
More information about my energy transition projects:
Professional article What is needed for citizen-centered urban energy transitions: Insights on attitudes towards decentralized energy storage, published in Energy Policy
Interview for the IGTV series “Energiewender*Innen” (only available in German)