The secure supply of energy and raw materials as the basis of our economy
A secure, affordable and environmentally friendly supply of energy and resources is a basic prerequisite for Germany and Europe as a sovereign business location. The transformation to a climate-friendly supply and the changing geopolitical situation present challenges. At the same time, there is an opportunity to renew the system with the help of technical, digital and social innovations. The acatech program area Energy and Resources is dedicated to the transformation of our energy system, the hydrogen economy, the secure supply of raw materials and the circular economy in various projects and formats. The transformation of the building sector also plays an important role for a climate-friendly future and livable living space.
Energy Systems of the Future (ESYS)
How can the transformation to a sustainable, secure and yet affordable energy supply succeed? What elements will form the German and European energy system of the future? Can political decisions be derived from energy scenarios and, if so, what needs to be taken into account? The joint initiative “Energy Systems of the Future” (ESYS) by acatech, Leopoldina and the Academies’ Union is currently addressing the questions whose answers are essential for the energy system of tomorrow. Since 2013, more than 160 experts from university, non-university and corporate research have been working in ESYS to develop options for action that can form a basis for long-term and forward-looking political decisions.
Research and Innovation Roadmap Fusion Energy
The project ‘Research and Innovation Roadmap Fusion Energy’ (FIRE) is developing a guiding framework for the first fusion power plant. The roadmap outlines consistent development pathways toward a first German fusion power plant. It identifies technical hurdles as well as the necessary interim milestones for the construction and commercial operation of a fusion power plant. In doing so, it addresses a range of challenges — from the development of new materials to the integration of power plants into the grid. The roadmap thus provides a fact-based foundation for political decision-makers to prioritize public investment, without imposing top-down mandates or prescribing specific courses of action.
Building & Living
The creation of affordable housing is one of the German government’s key objectives – but figures show that there is still a lot of catching up to do. The construction sector also makes a significant contribution to global resource and energy consumption. The transformation of the building sector therefore plays a decisive role in climate-friendly economic activity. At the same time, prescribed standards and the dynamic socio-ecological framework conditions pose major challenges. The aim of the “Building & Living” platform is to identify the obstacles to existing innovations for more affordable housing and to provide key impulses for the change of the construction sector. In addition to affordability, the criteria of sustainability and quality (essential living comfort) are also considered. The project is focusing on existing building structures in urban areas. Being discussed are solutions and impulses for reusing, adding storeys, building extensions and other types of redensification.
Publications
