Our topics: Circular value creation & resilient energy systems
As the NIWI Chair, we focus our research on the two decisive levers for a sustainable industry. These focal points enable us to develop in-depth expertise and at the same time address the systemic interrelationships of industrial transformation.
Circular value creation & resource efficiency
The linear economic model of "take, make, throw away" is reaching its planetary limits. We are therefore researching and developing approaches for a consistent circular economy. Our aim is to minimise the use of resources and keep materials and energy in the economic cycle for as long as possible.
Our research questions in this field include
- How can production processes be designed from the ground up for circularity (Design for Circularity)?
- Which digital technologies (e.g. digital product passports) are necessary to manage cycles transparently and efficiently?
- How can the ecological and economic potential of circular business models be evaluated?
Resilient & sustainable energy systems
The volatile availability of renewable energies and increasing geopolitical uncertainties require a fundamental rethink of industrial energy supply. We are researching energy systems that are not only sustainable, but also resilient to disruptions and fluctuations.
Our research questions in this field include:
- How can decentralised energy generators, storage systems and industrial consumers be intelligently coupled to form a stable overall system?
- What role does artificial intelligence play in the control and optimisation of energy systems?
- How can the flexibility potential of industrial processes be used to stabilise the energy system (demand side management)?
Integrierte Systeme & (Peri)urbane Transformation (Smart City / Smart Region)
In diesem Schwerpunkt führen wir unsere Expertise zusammen und wenden sie auf komplexe, vernetzte Systeme an, insbesondere im Kontext der Smart City. Die nachhaltige Stadt der Zukunft erfordert eine intelligente Integration von ressourcenschonenden Kreisläufen, resilienter Energieversorgung und digitaler Steuerung. Wir erforschen, wie diese Komponenten auf Quartiers- und Stadtebene zu einem funktionierenden, lebenswerten und nachhaltigen Gesamtsystem zusammenwachsen können.
Unsere Forschungsfragen in diesem Bereich sind unter anderem:
- Wie können die Prinzipien der Kreislaufwirtschaft und dezentrale Energiesysteme auf Quartiersebene effektiv integriert werden?
- Welche Rolle spielen digitale Plattformen und datengetriebene Dienstleistungen für die Entwicklung resilienter und nachhaltiger Smart Cities?
- Wie können urbane Stoff- und Energieströme systemübergreifend analysiert und optimiert werden?