Research project HI-CAM

Helmholtz-Initiative Climate Adaptation and Mitigation: two Sides of the same Coin

Forschungsprojekt HI-CAM
Credit:

Helmholtz Gemeinschaft

HI-CAM is a research initiative of the Helmholtz association on climate change adaptation and mitigation. Scientists and communication specialists in HI-CAM focussed on the following three topics:

  • the development of science-based scenarios to support a mitigation strategy leading to a carbon-neutral Germany in 2050
  • the development of sectorial impact projections and their cross-sectorial interconnectedness in order to develop appropriate adaptation to extremes options from a systemic perspective
  • the development of coherent communication strategies and campaigns to raise the awareness and interact with society on the issue of climate change impacts, risks and challenges.

Research project HI-CAM

 

Duration

July 2019 until June 2021

Funded by

Helmholtz Association

Project participants

The department of Energy systems analysis was involved both in mitigation and adaptation research and aimed at presenting results through the communications project. In the mitigation project we focussed on developing a new net zero carbon scenario for the energy system in Germany (Project 1.2). We approached this scenario in close cooperation with FZJ, HZG/Gerics and UFZ. Together with FZJ we assessed the sustainability impacts of the energy scenario, also regarding social and ecological aspects.

In the project part "Adaptation" our research focussed on the effects of climate change on the spatial and temporal availability of wind and solar energy. The effects on electricity, heating and cooling requirements and their time profiles were also examined. The findings such as peak load and degrees of capacity utilization were included in the scenarios in the project part "Mitigation".

More information:

Net Zero 2050: Pathways to Carbon Neutrality

In Cluster I of the Helmholtz Climate Initiative, strategies are scientifically analysed and case studies are carried out. The aim is a pilot roadmap for a CO2-neutral Germany by 2050.

Departments, research groups and challenges related to project HI-CAM:

Department

Energy Systems Analysis

The Energy Systems Analysis department generates system-analytical knowledge, which we provide across sectors up to the global level and based in part on methods and modelling tools developed in-house.

Research group

Energy Scenarios and Technology Assessment

The Energy Scenarios and Technology Assessment research group assesses alternative options and pathways for the transformation towards a sustainable energy economy. The aim is a holistic assessment across the entire life cycle of the technologies.

Research group

Energy System Modelling

The Energy System Modelling research group is developing methods and solutions for the planning and operation of future energy infrastructures. The primary focus lies in examining how various technologies can contribute to creating energy systems that are sustainable, reliable, and cost-effective.

Handlungsfeld

Strategien für nachhaltige Energiesysteme

Die Energiewende ist ein dynamischer Prozess, der fortlaufend an neue Einflüsse wie technische Innovationen oder gesellschaftlich ausgehandelte Rahmenbedingungen angepasst werden muss.

Contact

Dr Thomas Vogt

Head of Division
German Aerospace Center (DLR)
Institute of Networked Energy Systems
Energy Systems Analysis