Cohort #2
Unleashing
Sustainable Energy
The world has an opportunity to transition global energy consumption from fossil fuels to renewable sources in a cost-effective manner. To harness the full potential of renewable energy, we need innovative storage solutions, a robust energy infrastructure and widespread green energy distribution. By using energy efficiently, both private consumers and businesses can make a significant impact.
We need valuable knowledge to create sustainable energy and bring together diverse disciplines to design actionable solutions. This collaborative effort across various fields and research areas will lead to meaningful change and a greener future
Deep Green Innovators'
four key challenges
How can we increase the number of solar panels and wind turbines without harming nature or reducing local communities' quality of life? What incentives will encourage citizens to shift energy use away from peak periods? How can we protect supply lines and infrastructure from sabotage and cyberattacks?
These and many other challenges in sustainable energy must be addressed and solved.
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The electrified society
What is the human side of electrification? The shift to electrification isn’t just about technology – it’s about how people adopt and use it.
Many consumers struggle to understand their energy consumption, creating demand for behavioral nudges, gamification, and intuitive interfaces that make energy use more transparent and engaging.
Homes and buildings need upgrades, but adoption depends on convenience and incentives. Smart heating, easy-to-access financing, and community-driven energy sharing can accelerate the transition.
Electric mobility is growing, but changing habits around car ownership and charging behavior requires better infrastructure, user-friendly pricing models, and social incentives to encourage shared mobility.
Finally, making green technology feel accessible and beneficial – not just financially but socially – will be key to driving mass adoption.
A circular energy system
A circular energy system minimizes waste by reusing materials, recovering surplus energy, and reducing reliance on scarce resources. This shift opens major innovation opportunities in energy storage, battery recycling, and waste-to-energy solutions.
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Smarter grid integration can optimize surplus power distribution, while AI-driven platforms can enhance efficiency in resource use. New business models in energy-sharing, refurbishing critical materials, and decentralized production offer untapped potential.
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Overcoming regulatory and economic barriers will require creative solutions, but those who innovate in circular energy will drive a more resilient and sustainable future.
Digital energy
The energy system is shifting from a hardware-driven infrastructure to one where software plays a central role in making energy smarter, more efficient, and more secure.
Traditionally, energy systems have relied on physical assets – power plants, grids, and meters – but digitalization is transforming them into dynamic, data-driven networks. Smart grids, AI-powered forecasting, and real-time demand response systems are making energy flows more flexible and optimized.
Security and seamless integration are critical as more software solutions connect decentralized energy sources, electric vehicles, and storage systems. Innovations in cybersecurity, blockchain-based energy trading, and intelligent energy coordination will be key to ensuring a reliable and resilient energy system.
By pairing physical infrastructure with intelligent software, we can unlock a more adaptive, efficient, and secure energy future.
Replacing fossil fuels
The shift from fossil fuels to electricity presents major challenges for industry – but also unique opportunities for innovation. The need for high-temperature electrification drives demand for technologies like plasma burners, Power-to-X, and advanced heat pumps.
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Energy supply challenges create space for smarter storage solutions, flexible production systems, and AI-driven energy management. Companies that develop more efficient electric processes can gain a competitive edge in a future shaped by stricter climate regulations.
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The industry needs solutions that make electrification easier, cheaper, and more efficient –opening the door for innovation and new business models
