Energy Scenarios and Technology Assessment

In order to assess the sustainability of individual technologies, we use life cycle sustainability assessment approaches. Potential assessment criteria include the climate impact, demand for critical resources, land and water use, investment and operating costs, value added and job creation potential as well as supposedly soft factors such as cosiness and comfort. The focus here is particularly on how technologies will develop in the future under changed framework conditions with regard to ecological aspects. In this so-called prospective life cycle assessment (LCA), we draw on scenario analyses, learning curves and expert interviews, among other things. The aim is to further develop methods and open source tools for prospective LCA and to link the assessment with energy scenarios and energy system models. The methods and tools are applied to assess the development of solar cells or stationary energy storage systems, the production of alternative fuels as well as for powertrain and energy supply concepts for ships and airplanes.

On the basis of a comprehensive characterisation of key technologies for the energy system, the model-based development and multi-dimensional assessment of scenarios for individual energy sectors or overall systems is carried out. Implementation paths are analysed taking into account techno-economic potentials as well as defined political, economic and social boundary conditions. In addition, detailed technology models are developed to simulate the dimensioning and operation of integrated systems from the operator's perspective. The research group develops tools and analyses for these purposes, with which new orientation knowledge for strategy formation is created and investment decisions can be guided. The assessment methods used focus on the effectiveness and efficiency of emission reduction in various sectors (transport, industry, buildings, energy), as well as other environmental effects, resource requirements and social impacts and risks.