Kopernikus projects for the Energiewende
Within the programme "Kopernikus projects for the Energiewende" science, business and civil society are working together to develop technological and economic solutions for the transformation of the energy system. The launch of the Kopernikus projects sees the implementation of the largest Energiewende research initiative, addressing four key areas:
The development of electricity networks, the storage of surplus renewable energy by conversion into other energy carriers, the adaptation of industrial processes to a fluctuating energy supply, and improved interaction between all sectors of the energy system.
“By 2025 we’ll have new energy concepts underway that are applicable on an industrial scale - and which will also be socially acceptable.” said Johanna Wanka, Federal Minister of Education and Research.
The topics to be researched in the four Kopernikus projects (ENSURE, P2X, SynErgie and ENavi) were drawn up by representatives from science, business and civil society in a comprehensive participatory process which saw them collaborating in the “Energiewende Research Forum”. The process involved over 90 institutions and organisations drawn from all areas of society.
The ten year duration of the projects, coupled with close industrial cooperation, should allow the results to be taken from basic research all the way through to practical application. The social scientists and representatives of civil society are particularly involved in the projects, in order to develop concepts consistent with the public’s expectations of the Energiewende.
The BMBF is making available up to €120m for the initial three-year funding phase. A further €280m is to be provided up to 2025. The Kopernikus projects form part of the Federal Government's energy research programme “Research for an environmentally friendly, reliable and affordable energy supply”.