Participation in the expert workshop at the University of Stuttgart: "Use of digital, simulation-based tools in stakeholder processes of urban (infrastructure) planning"

Information about the Department for Resilient Energy Systems

The research conducted by the Resilient Energy Systems research group focuses on examining and supporting transformation processes in the future energy system.

One key focus is on the concept of transformative resilience - the ability to use profound changes or disruptive events in the energy system as an opportunity to shape sustainable and robust structures. In this context, we develop approaches to create less vulnerable systems - not only as a reaction to such disruptions but also proactively through early strategic planning. Another main area of our work is data-driven analysis of sociotechnical vulnerabilities and risks, as well as model-based foresight of future scenarios for urban and industrial infrastructures.

We develop tools for energy system modeling and optimization, as well as digital planning tools, to simulate the impact of various measures on resilience and sustainability in the energy system. Together with transformation actors beyond research, we create well-founded decision-making bases for the complex transformation of the energy system. With the help of urban twins, we provide promising starting points to capture complex interconnections and support transformation actors in intricate decision-making processes.

The Virtual Transformation Lab (VTL) offers an environment where these topics can be collaboratively shaped with different stakeholder groups. The VTL provides both traditional analog and digital interactive tools (LED wall & touch tables) to optimally support different phases of transformation processes. As part of the Digital Hub Industry in the NEOS building at the University of Bremen's Technology Park, the department is optimally networked with research and industry partners.

As a member of the artec Research Center for Sustainability at the University of Bremen, the department is embedded in the research focus "Sociotechnical Systems and Sustainability." Additionally, the group is part of the Bremen Research Center for Energy Systems "Energy for Economy and Society" (BEST).

Members of this research group come from mechanical engineering, process engineering, biology, physics, and social sciences; they collaborate in interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary projects.

How is a target group-oriented design of tools for urban (infrastructure) planning achieved? On February 29, 2024, ZIRIUS invited scientists from around 20 research projects from Germany, Austria and Switzerland

How is a target group-oriented design of tools for urban (infrastructure) planning achieved? On February 29, 2024, ZIRIUS invited scientists from around 20 research projects from Germany, Austria and Switzerland as part of the DiTEnS (Discursive Transformation of Energy Systems) research network. The discussions and workshops focused on issues relating to the research field of digital planning tools, intelligently developed visualizations and simulations (such as urban digital twins), all of which can help to better support planning processes and involve stakeholders in the decision-making process. Lennart Winkeler represented the Department for Resilient Energy Systems at the University of Bremen.
Further information on the contents and results of the workshop can be found in the blog post of the ZIRIUS Center.