Energy Economics

In the business unit Energy Economics, we analyse markets, technologies and infrastructure for a climate-neutral energy system. We evaluate new energy sources in transportation, energy storage technologies and energy system interrelationships and use these analyses to develop a basis for decision-making for policymakers and the business community.

We analyse markets and transition pathways.

We examine market ramp-ups and transition pathways for new energy technologies such as alternative propulsion systems, charging and refueling infrastructure, energy storage, and hydrogen and its derivatives. In doing so, we consider energy demand, costs, emissions, and infrastructure needs at the European, national, and regional levels.

We evaluate new energy sources and storage technologies

We evaluate the role of new energy sources and storage technologies in future energy systems. Our focus is on electricity, hydrogen, hydrogen derivatives, synthetic fuels, and battery storage, as well as their contribution to greenhouse gas reduction, security of supply, and infrastructure development.

We examine the integration of energy and transportation systems

At the intersection of energy and transportation, we model the adoption of alternative propulsion systems, analyse charging and refueling infrastructure needs, and assess impacts on electricity demand, grids, and energy markets. In doing so, we also consider flexibility options such as controlled and bidirectional charging, Vehicle-to-X applications and the integration of electric passenger cars, commercial vehicles and corporate fleets into the energy system.

We develop quantitative decision-making frameworks

Our work is based on quantitative models and empirical methods. Among other things, we use and develop agent-based diffusion models, high-resolution regional demand and infrastructure models, energy system models and techno-economic evaluation approaches.

Our expertise for policy and business

This business unit supports public and private clients in evaluating technologies, markets, infrastructure, and policy instruments. We develop studies, scenarios, roadmaps, impact analyses, and strategies for national and international issues related to the energy transition. In this way, we create a solid foundation for realistically evaluating transformation pathways and developing viable options for action toward a climate-neutral energy system.

The business unit is led by Dr. Annegret Stephan; her deputy is Dr. Till Gnann.